More than two decades later, Experiment 626, affectionately known as Stitch, is still tugging at the heartstrings of every Disney classic movie lover. This time, in the live-action adaptation of Lilo Stitch , which opens at cinemas on Friday.
The live-action remake stars Maia Kealoha as the cheeky Lilo and Sydney Agudong as her older sister Nani. In a nostalgic nod to the original, Chris Sanders, who also co-directed the 2002 animated film, returns to voice the mischievous yet lovable alien Stitch.
While the storyline takes a new direction, the heart of the classic remains intact. Its an emotional journey that tells the tale of Ohana family, sisterhood, friendship and duty.
What sets this reimagining apart is how it shines a light on Hawaiian identity, particularly in a powerful moment when Lilos neighbour reminds Cobra Bubbles, Were American citizens too. Its a brief but forceful line that underscores the often overlooked reality of Hawaiis place in the US. This is a reminder of belonging, citizenship and cultural pride woven into a story about family and home.