Lilo & Stitch Remake: Release Date, Cast, and Updates

The live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch has been released and is receiving a lot of attention worldwide. This remake of the popular animated film brings new life to the story while keeping the important parts that made the original so loved. In this article, we will discuss everything about the new movie, including its release date, cast, box office performance, production, and audience response.

Release Date and Availability

The live-action Lilo & Stitch was released in the United Kingdom on 21 May 2025. Before this, the film had its premiere in Los Angeles at the El Capitan Theatre on 17 May 2025. The movie is currently playing in many cinemas across the UK. People can book tickets through popular cinema chains such as Odeon, Vue, Cineworld, Everyman Cinema, and Omniplex Cinemas. The release date was highly anticipated, and cinemas have reported strong bookings since the movie’s opening.

Box Office Success

The movie has quickly become one of the most profitable films of the year. Made with a production budget of $100 million and a marketing budget estimated at $75 million, Lilo & Stitch managed to collect $610 million worldwide within just 10 days of its release. Industry experts believe the movie will continue to do well and expect it to reach $950 million by the time its run in theatres ends. Depending on how the movie performs in Japan and other remaining markets, there is a chance that it may even cross the $1 billion mark, which would make it one of the biggest hits of 2025.

Cast and Characters

The cast of the live-action remake includes a mix of new actors and some returning voices from the original film. The main characters have been brought to life by the following actors:

• Maia Kealoha plays the role of Lilo Pelekai, the young girl at the heart of the story.
• Sydney Elizebeth Agudong plays Nani Pelekai, Lilo’s older sister and guardian.
• Chris Sanders returns to voice Stitch, the alien experiment who becomes Lilo’s best friend.
• Zach Galifianakis plays Dr. Jumba Jookiba, the scientist who created Stitch.
• Billy Magnussen voices Pleakley, Jumba’s partner and Earth expert.
• Courtney B. Vance plays Cobra Bubbles, the social worker who watches over Lilo’s care.
• Hannah Waddingham plays the Grand Councilwoman, who leads the Galactic Federation.
• Tia Carrere, who voiced Nani in the original animated film, now plays Mrs. Kekoa.
• Amy Hill plays Tūtū, a new character added to the live-action version.
• Jason Scott Lee plays Jimmy’s Luau manager.

The casting choices have received positive feedback from audiences for staying true to the original characters while adding fresh performances for the live-action format.

Production and Filming

The remake was directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, with the screenplay written by Chris Kekaniokalani Bright and Mike Van Waes. Production faced some challenges, including a set fire and delays caused by industry strikes. However, filming was completed in early 2024. The crew worked hard to maintain the original film’s Hawaiian setting and themes while bringing modern filmmaking technology to the project.

The film’s creators were careful to balance the live-action elements with the science fiction parts of the story, especially when creating the animated character Stitch through CGI. The visual effects team successfully brought Stitch to life in a way that stays true to his original design.

Soundtrack and Music

Music plays an important role in Lilo & Stitch, and the live-action version includes several classic songs from the original animated film. These include popular Elvis Presley songs such as “(You’re the) Devil in Disguise,” “Hound Dog,” and “Heartbreak Hotel.” The movie also introduces new performances that update the soundtrack for modern audiences.

Bruno Mars produced a new cover of “Burning Love,” which is performed by his nephews, Nyjah Music and Zyah Rhythm. In addition, a new version of “Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride” was recorded by Iam Tongi and The Kamehameha Schools Children’s Chorus. This version was released as a single before the movie’s release and received a positive response from fans.

Changes in the Story

While the live-action remake follows the same main plot as the original animated film, there are a few changes that have received mixed reactions from fans. In the original story, Stitch stays with Lilo and Nani, and they live together as a family. The remake changes this ending. In the new version, Nani leaves to study marine biology, and Lilo and Stitch are placed in the care of David and Tūtū.

Some fans were disappointed by this change, as the original ending strongly focused on the importance of family. After the remake was released, some viewers returned to the original film on Disney+ to rewatch the original ending they loved.

Audience Reception

The live-action Lilo & Stitch has been well received by many audiences for its performances, visual effects, and overall respect for the original story. The actors’ performances have been praised, especially Maia Kealoha as Lilo and Sydney Elizebeth Agudong as Nani. Chris Sanders’ return as the voice of Stitch has also been welcomed by fans.

However, some long-time fans of the animated film have expressed disappointment with certain changes to the story, particularly the new ending. Still, many viewers have enjoyed seeing the familiar characters brought to life in a new format and appreciate the attention given to Hawaiian culture and setting.

Where to Watch

For those interested in watching the movie, Lilo & Stitch is available in cinemas across the UK. Tickets can be purchased from popular cinema chains such as:

• Odeon: www.odeon.co.uk
• Vue: www.myvue.com
• Cineworld: www.cineworld.co.uk
• Everyman Cinema: www.everymancinema.com
• Omniplex Cinemas: www.omniplexcinemas.co.uk

Online ticket booking makes it easy for fans to secure their seats and watch the film at a time that suits them.

Conclusion

The live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch has successfully brought the beloved story to a new generation. With strong box office numbers, positive audience feedback, and a talented cast, Disney has managed to honor the original film while updating it for modern viewers. Although some fans have concerns about changes to the ending, the overall reaction to the movie has been positive. The film continues to perform strongly in cinemas, and there is a chance it may join the small list of movies that cross the $1 billion mark worldwide.