Disney’s much-anticipated live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch has officially secured a release date: May 23, 2025. This reimagining of the beloved 2002 animated classic will bring a modern twist to the heartwarming story of Lilo, a lonely Hawaiian girl, and her mischievous alien companion, Stitch. Directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, best known for Marcel the Shell with Shoes On, the film promises to balance its roots in family dynamics and sci-fi adventure while keeping the spirit of the original intact.

In terms of casting, newcomer Maia Kealoha has been chosen to play Lilo, while Sydney Agudong takes on the role of Nani, her older sister. Key supporting roles include Zach Galifianakis as the voice of the mad scientist Jumba, and Chris Sanders reprising his iconic voice role as Stitch. Other notable actors in the lineup are Billy Magnussen as Agent Pleakley and Courtney B. Vance as the mysterious social worker Cobra Bubbles​.

The plot will closely follow the original story, focusing on Lilo and Stitch’s unique bond and their fight against both galactic and earthly threats. However, there are expected to be a few updates to better fit modern audiences, ensuring that the live-action version resonates with both longtime fans and new viewers alike. The 2025 release positions it to be one of Disney’s summer blockbusters, competing with other major films, including the eighth installment of Mission: Impossible.

One of the most interesting aspects of this remake is its hybrid approach, blending live-action with CGI to bring the outlandish alien creatures to life. Disney has a history of successfully executing this format, as seen with The Jungle Book and The Lion King remakes. With this technology, Stitch’s chaotic yet endearing nature is expected to leap off the screen, providing both nostalgia and a fresh experience for viewers.

As Disney continues its trend of remaking animated classics, fans are eagerly waiting to see how this new version of Lilo & Stitch will capture the heart and humor of the original, while offering something new for contemporary audiences. With a release date set for May 2025, there’s already a lot of buzz, and anticipation is building for this film to be a standout hit.