Lilo & Stitch Film Review

A Heartwarming Return to Disney’s Roots
Recent Disney films have often been weighed down by issues of political correctness, but this time, Lilo & Stitch returns to its roots, delivering a heartfelt and engaging story.
The live-action Stitch is utterly adorable and lively, bursting with expressive antics that are both charming and amusing, guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. His playful energy steals the show, making him an instant favourite for audiences young and old.
The casting of Lilo is exceptional, with the young actress Maia Kealoha delivering a natural and endearing performance. Her portrayal feels effortless and genuine, free from any forced or exaggerated mannerisms, anchoring the film’s emotional core.
The plot doesn’t have major twists and turns and follows a fairly predictable path, but as a family-friendly film, this is perfectly acceptable. It’s simple and straightforward, managing to delight children while keeping adults entertained. The humour lands well for both kids and grown-ups, creating a light-hearted and joyful experience that’s already a triumph.
Audiences can genuinely enjoy Lilo & Stitch for its pure entertainment value, rather than being preached at with heavy-handed life lessons. It sidesteps the pitfalls of Disney’s lacklustre live-action Snow White remake, avoiding any attempt to forcefully “fix” the original.
In summary, Lilo & Stitch faithfully captures the spirit of the original, sincerely delivering a story that resonates with families. The casting is pitch-perfect, with outstanding performances that give the film a powerful emotional impact, complemented by stunning visuals. It’s an ideal film for audiences of all ages, and its box office success is well-deserved.
Rating: 8/10
Synopsis
The film tells the story of "the bond formed between a lonely human girl named Lilo and a dog-like alien named Stitch, who is engineered to be a force of destruction. Pursuing aliens, social workers and the idea of the bond of family figure into the proceedings."