Lilo & Stitch

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2 (out of 5 stars)

As the rollout of Disney live-action treatments of their classic films continues, many may groan at the idea of remaking the 2002 surprise hit Lilo & Stitch. Yet, this unbelievable sci-fi family may translate to the big screen better than recent offerings if the House of Mouse can capture the heart of the original. Especially with the advancements in cinematic technology and animation, this film could shock fans as it becomes the unexpected family film of the season.

For any parents who haven’t had the original film on regular repeat for their children over the past two decades, let’s get you up to speed on the Hawaiian exploits of this furry blue alien. Stitch (voiced by Chris Sanders) is the creation of mad-genius Dr. Jumba Jookiba (Zach Galifianakis) who has been arrested for this abomination to the United Galactic Federation council. Yet, during the trial of the scientist and his creature, Stitch manages to escape to the planet Earth and lands on the island of Hawaii. As he is pursued by this creator and Agent Pleakley (Billy Magnussen), a Plorgonarian agent who is an Earth "expert," the fugitive creature is unexpectedly adopted by a lonely little girl named Lilo (Maia Kealoha) and her sister/guardian, Sydney (Nani Pelekai). The combination turns into an intergalactic refugee story that twists together aliens, government authorities and family that will capture the hearts of new and old fans.

Just as the initial tale captured the imagination of a generation, this live-action version of Lilo & Stitch manages to keep the tradition alive. Granted, audiences will need a certain level of imagination to embrace this crazily destructive little, blue hero, but all will be rewarded for coming along. Children will laugh at all the shenanigans of these two unlikely friends, and parents can relish the trusted family fun unfolding on the big screen. Some scarier elements might make this best for children over five. Still, everyone else who comes along will enjoy the family-centred messaging and the ridiculous combination of science fiction and the beauty of the Hawaiian islands. Some modern twists bring this screenplay into this era. At the same time, the production team keeps to the fundamental core of the story that families have come to love over the years.

All those who have grown skeptical of Disney’s reimagining of these movie favourites might want to give this one a chance. Maia Kealoha is a gem. It embodies the heartfelt nature of Lilo, and the animation supports Stitch coming alive on the sandy island beaches. It is a great beginning to the upcoming season that yearns to welcome families back to the cinemas.

Find out more about Russ Matthews' latest book: Reel Marriage.

What do parents need to know about Lilo & Stitch?

Every parent can let out a sigh of relief that Disney has finally stayed true to what made this film a hit. They remain to the storyline that parents can trust to entertain and open the door to amazing conversations with their children. This story is loaded with excellent links to discussions about loyalty, the difference between good and bad, plus the opportunities to talk about the value of family is worth the price of admission.

Great biblical support for talking points:

Family: Proverbs 22:6: - "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it."

Loyalty: Proverbs 17:17: "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."

If you want to discuss these questions from this film, contact us at Third Space. We would love to chat about this and more