Anna Colleen

Ever since the live-action adaptation of Mulan left me disappointed, I’ve approached Disney’s recent remakes with a healthy dose of skepticism. That said, I was genuinely surprised by how well they handled Lilo & Stitch. While not perfect, the film manages to capture much of the original’s heart, charm, and emotional depth. The casting was particularly strong—each actor brought authenticity and warmth to their roles, with the central bond between Lilo and Nani feeling just as powerful as in the animated version. I especially appreciated how the filmmakers expanded on Nani’s storyline, giving her a tangible dream of attending college. This addition not only deepened her character but also emphasized the theme of sacrifice and aspiration within the context of sisterhood. Visually, the film is stunning. The Hawaiian landscape is lovingly portrayed, and the music helps transport viewers right into that sun-drenched, island atmosphere. The soundtrack strikes a good balance between nostalgic familiarity and fresh energy. However, a few creative decisions left me puzzled. The reimagining of Mr. Bubbles felt a little off at first—his character was softened in some ways—but ultimately, the reinterpretation worked within the new tone of the film. On the other hand, I was genuinely disappointed by the removal of Captain Gantu. Replacing him by turning a previously sympathetic character into a villain felt forced and unnecessary, detracting from the balance of good and evil that the original handled so well.