'Lilo & Stitch' Live-Action Remake Gets First Look at D23
Disney unveiled a glimpse of its upcoming live-action adaptation of the beloved animated film "Lilo & Stitch" at the D23 Expo, much to the delight of fans. The film, starring Maia Kealoha as the spirited Lilo Pelekai, promises to bring the heartwarming story of a young Hawaiian girl and her mischievous alien companion to life on the big screen.
Set to hit cinemas exclusively in summer 2025, "Lilo & Stitch" will follow the original film's narrative, released in 2002 and directed by Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois. The animated original tells the tale of Lilo and her elder sister Nani, who reside in Hawaii and adopt a blue extraterrestrial being nicknamed Stitch. In this live-action reimagining, Stitch will be realised using cutting-edge CGI technology.
"Lilo & Stitch" has a rich history of spin-offs, including the animated films "Stitch! The Movie," "Lilo & Stitch 2: Stitch Has a Glitch," and "Leroy & Stitch." The animated TV series, "Lilo & Stitch: The Series," also enjoyed success on Disney Channel and ABC Kids from 2003 to 2006.
The live-action adaptation boasts a talented ensemble cast. Sydney Agudong steps into the role of Nani, while Sanders reprises his voice role as Stitch. Zach Galifianakis joins the cast as Dr. Jumba Jookiba, the quirky creator of Stitch. Billy Magnussen portrays Agent Pleakley, a representative of the United Galactic Federation assigned to track down Dr. Jumba. Courtney B. Vance takes on the role of the social worker responsible for Lilo. Tia Carrere, who voiced Nani in the original, returns as Mrs. Kekoa. Amy Hill, who provided the voice of Mrs. Hasagawa in the animated film, appears as Tūtū. Additionally, Jason Scott Lee, who played David Kawena in the original, makes a comeback.
"Marcel the Shell With Shoes On" director Dean Fleischer Camp sits in the director's chair for this adaptation, with a script penned by Chris Kekaniokalani Bright. Dan Lin and Jonathan Eirich of Rideback serve as producers, while Ryan Halprin, Tom C. Peitzman, and Louie Provost contribute as executive producers.
With its talented cast, creative team, and commitment to the original story, the live-action "Lilo & Stitch" is poised to capture the hearts of both old and new fans alike when it arrives in cinemas next summer.
