In recent years, the lovable, genetically engineered alien Experiment 626, better known to the world as Stitch, has become a huge moneymaker for Disney – even more now than when the animated movie Lilo & Stitch was released back in 2002. With a live-action remake heading into cinemas next year, the popularity of the fuzzy blue-and-purple character will be a huge part of the movie’s success, and those awaiting the first look at Stitch can now get one, up close and personal. Disney revealed a brand new look at the CGI version of Stitch on Friday at D23; check it out below.
Helmed by Dean Fleischer Camp, the live-action remake, penned by Chris Kekaniokalani Bright and inspired by the original script by Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois, aims to recapture the heartwarming tale of the bond between a young girl and her alien companion. Although Lilo & Stitch was not Disney’s biggest hit, the film did end 2002 as the second highest-grossing animated movie of the year behind Ice Age, and gained a number of movie and TV spin-offs over the years. The live-action remake of the original movie is the latest addition to the legacy of the franchise.
Lilo & Stich Has Assembled a Strong Cast
In a casting choice that honors the film’s cultural roots, Maia Kealoha, a Native Hawaiian child, steps into the role of Lilo in what marks her acting debut, promising a fresh and authentic portrayal of the character. The film also sees the return of Chris Sanders, the original co-director and voice of Stitch from the 2002 animated film, lending his voice once more to the mischievous alien. The cast is further bolstered by the talents of Zach Galifianakis as Dr. Jumba Jookiba and Billy Magnussen as Agent Pleakley, with additional roles filled by Sydney Agudong (Nani Pelekai), Kaipo Dudoit (David Kawena), the animated movie’s Tia Carrere (Mrs. Kekoa), Courtney B. Vance (Cobra Bubbles), and Amy Hill (Tūtū).
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As part of Disney’s ongoing effort to reimagine/cash-in on its animated classics, Lilo & Stitch joins the ranks of recent live-action adaptations including Lady and the Tramp, Pinocchio, The Little Mermaid, and The Lion King. Others coming soon on the Disney slate are Snow White and Moana, which join many currently in development. Lilo & Stitch will arrive in cinemas on May 23, 2025 so expect a first trailer to arrive in the not too distant future.
Lilo & Stitch is a live-action remake of the 2002 animated sci-fi adventure comedy directed by Dean Fleischer Camp. Based closely on the original, this remake follows a young girl who lives with her sister and has trouble fitting in at school. Her fortunes change when she meets a mysterious alien experiment named Stitch, who she claims is her pet dog, setting the stage for an intergalactic adventure in Hawaii.
- Release Date
- 2025-00-00
- Studio
- Walt Disney Pictures