Review: ‘Lilo & Stitch’ is more enjoyable as a cartoon than live-action adaptation

“Lilo & Stitch” brings a glimmer of joy reminiscent of the original cartoon. The nostalgic Elvis music score, the vibrant Hawaiian setting, and the endearing bond between Lilo and Stitch capture a flicker of the magic of the animated classic.

However, the rest of the film feels lackluster and weighed down by the burden of live-action adaptation. The familiar characters seem out of place in the real world, grappling with mundane and grim adult responsibilities that drain the whimsical charm of their animated counterparts. The film’s attempt to infuse a dose of reality into the fantastical tale falls short, leaving viewers feeling disconnected and disheartened.

The portrayal of Stitch, the lovable blue alien, feels somewhat off-putting in this incarnation. While the animated Stitch endeared himself to audiences with his mischievous antics and heartwarming evolution, the CGI version struggles to evoke the same affection. His antics, once endearing, now come across as distressing and unsettling in a live-action format.

The human characters, such as Nani and social worker Tia Carrere, navigate tough circumstances that feel out of place in a children’s movie, adding a layer of darkness that detracts from the lighthearted spirit of the original. The lack of humor and warmth in some of the performances, notably Courtney B. Vance’s portrayal of Cobra Bubbles, contributes to the film’s overall sense of missed opportunity.

Despite its shortcomings, “Lilo & Stitch” does have its moments of brightness, particularly in scenes that harken back to the carefree spirit of the animated classic. The surfing sequence set to the tune of “Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride” stands out as a delightful instance that captures the essence of the original film, albeit briefly.

In conclusion, while “Lilo & Stitch” attempts to reimagine a beloved classic for a new audience, it falls short of recapturing the magic and wonder of the original animation. The live-action format struggles to convey the unique charm and emotional depth of the cartoon, resulting in a film that lacks the soul and spirit of its predecessor. For fans of the original “Lilo & Stitch,” the remake may feel like a missed opportunity to revisit a treasured childhood memory in a fresh and engaging way.