“Lilo & Stitch”: First Official Image of Disney’s Live-Action Adaptation Revealed

A reimagining of a classic

Disney has unveiled the first official image of the highly anticipated live-action adaptation of Lilo & Stitch during the D23 Brazil event. The image features Stitch, the iconic blue alien, sitting on Lilo’s bed adorned with a traditional Hawaiian lei. The simplicity of the image captures the essence of the original story, sparking excitement among fans worldwide.

The film, directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, renowned for his acclaimed work on Marcel the Shell with Shoes On, promises a faithful approach to the beloved 2002 animated classic. Its release is scheduled for May 23, 2025.

A diverse and committed cast

The casting choices reflect Disney’s careful effort to preserve the cultural authenticity of the story. Maia Kealoha has been selected to portray the young Lilo, while Sydney Elizabeth Agudong will play her older sister, Nani. The cast also features Zach Galifianakis as Dr. Jumba Jookiba, Billy Magnussen as Agent Pleakley, and Courtney B. Vance as the enigmatic Cobra Bubbles, a CIA agent.

The production team is also in final negotiations to bring back Chris Sanders, the original co-director and voice of Stitch, to reprise his iconic role. This decision is sure to appeal to nostalgic fans while introducing a new audience to the story.

The plot: universal themes of family and friendship

Like the animated film, the live-action adaptation will follow the story of Stitch, also known as Experiment 626. Created by an alien scientist, Stitch escapes to Hawaii, where he meets Lilo. Their unlikely friendship explores themes of family (“Ohana means family. Family means no one gets left behind or forgotten.”), identity, and acceptance.

The narrative remains as relevant and timeless as ever, especially in a world that increasingly values emotional and cultural connections across communities.

Hawaiian culture in the spotlight

From the onset of production, Disney has shown a commitment to respecting the rich Hawaiian culture that is central to the story. Filming took place in Hawaii, with authentic details incorporated into the production design and costumes. This approach honors the original setting and ensures an immersive visual experience.

Looking ahead to 2025

The Lilo & Stitch live-action adaptation is already one of the most anticipated releases of the coming year. Beyond the revealed image, the promise of stunning visual effects, blending advanced CGI to bring Stitch to life, has heightened audience curiosity. With its release set for May 23, 2025, fans eagerly await the first trailer, expected to drop in the coming months.