(Ray J's Autism Friendly Review) - "Lilo & Stitch" (Live-Action 2025) - Sisterly O'hana Steals The Show🌸

Genre:

Comedy/Sci-Fi/Kids & Family

Where To Watch:

Purchase or Rent Digitally / Stream On Disney +

MPAA Rating:

PG

Runtime:

1h 48m

Cast:

Maia Kealoha (as Lilo), Sydney Agudong (as Nani), Chris Sanders (as the voice of Stitch) Zach Galifinakis (as Jumba), Billy Magnussen (as Pleakley), Hannah Waddingham (as the voice of the Grand Councilwoman), Kaipo Duddoit (as David), Amy Hill (as Tutu), Courtney B. Vance (as Cobra Bubbles), Tia Carrere (as Mrs. Kekoa)

Directed By:

Dean Fleischer Camp

Ray J's Thoughts:

Throughout the course of the first 5 or so minutes of Disney's live-action "Lilo & Stitch", I was suddenly overcome with nerves due to the opening sequence feeling incredibly rushed, but my nerves were quickly swept away with the clear blue sea as the film made it's way to earth - thankfully sticking the landing.

Even though there's some minor changes here and there, what caught me off guard was how beautiful the humane & emotional elements translate from animation to live action form (and it makes complete sense). Lilo & Nani's complicated sisterly relationship stands out immensely, thanks to strong & believable performances from the abso-freaking-adorable child actress, Maia Kealoha, & Sydney Agudong. I'll get to Stitch in a second, but I just have to emphasize how much the O'hana of it all works so well here. Of course if you've seen the original 2002 animated film, you know that Nani is under a lot of pressure as Lilo's parental figure since their Mama & Papa passed away and what this live action remake explores further is Nani's dream of becoming a marine biologist & facing the difficult decisions to do what's best for her much younger sister. Newcomer Maia Kealoha is an absolute treasure, and really makes Lilo her own in a heartfelt way.

Stitch is of course, Stitch...but OMG is he so fluffy in live-action form. As Lilo & Stitch's bond grows stronger, the message of O'Hana meaning family & that means no one getting left behind' hauntingly looms in the background in the most subtle & heartwarming ways.

Overall, the CGI looks pretty darn good, with the exception of a few minor wonky moments. Stitch & the Grand Councilwoman probably look the best out of the alien characters.

Now, as far as the minor changes & switcharoos here & there, I would say that the majority work, but a few don't. Let's discuss the new characters first. Nani & Lilo's elderly neighbor, Tutu (played by Amy Hill) is hilarious and absolutely delightful - by far the best of the new characters. Then you have Tia Carrere (as Mrs. Kukoa - also the original voice of Nani in the animated film), a social worker trying to help Nani keep permanent custody of Lilo - and yes Cobra Bubbles is still here, although sadly not as intimidating. Gantu, the villain in the animated film, has been erased from the live action remake - however Jumba & Pleakley are very much present - BUT I was not super crazy about Zach Galifinakis' take on the character. Billy Magnussen as Pleakley mostly works though...He's very funny!

Get ready for a Hawaiian Emotional Roller Coaster Ride, Disney's live action "Lilo & Stitch" is as heartfelt & humorous as it is a fun time. Maia Kealoha will melt your heart. Sit down with your O'hana to enjoy this delightful slice of summer escapism.

Also, please do yourself a favor & watch the director’s other recent film from a few years ago - “Marcel The Shell With Shoes On”. The definition of comfort movie!

Ray J's Rating:

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Out Of 5 Stars