Just when it looked like Disney’s live-action reboot train might be heading off the rails after Snow White ‘s rocky reception, Lilo & Stitch has swooped in like a scrappy little alien with a big heart — and critics are loving it.

Fresh reactions from early screenings are pouring in, and they’re not just positive — they’re glowing. Some reviewers are even calling this new version of the 2002 animated classic the best live-action Disney film ever made .

“Lilo & Stitch is the crown jewel of Disney’s live-action efforts so far,” said Wendy Lee Zani, freelance critic. “Seeing Stitch come to life on the big screen was an emotional wave of nostalgia. There’s plenty of laughs, heartfelt moments, and the movie keeps the rhythm of the original while adding something fresh.”

Another reviewer, Daniel Baptista from The Movie Podcast , echoed that sentiment:

“This is the biggest surprise of the year — and without question, Disney’s finest remake yet. Director Dean Fleischer Camp crafts a joyful family adventure that captures the chaotic charm of the original. And thanks to Maya Kealoha’s standout performance, it’s also incredibly touching.”

The film follows the story you know and love: Lilo, a lonely Hawaiian girl, adopts Stitch — a genetically engineered alien fugitive who crash-lands on Earth and pretends to be her dog. Together, they cause chaos across the island while being hunted by intergalactic authorities and Stitch’s eccentric creator, Dr. Jumba.

Played by Maya Kealoha, Lilo brings a modern authenticity to the character, while Sidney Agudong steps into Nani’s shoes with warmth and strength. Chris Sanders, who voiced and co-created Stitch back in 2002, returns to give voice to the mischievous alien. The cast also includes Zach Galifianakis, Billy Magnussen, and Courtney B. Vance.

Disney has been trying to bring this project to life for years, and now it looks like all that effort has paid off. The first teaser trailer racked up 158 million views in just 24 hours , making it the second-most viewed live-action teaser in Disney history — behind only the 2019 The Lion King .

This could be exactly what Disney needs to bounce back after the backlash surrounding Snow White . That film faced heavy criticism long before its release — especially over casting choices and questionable CGI gnomes. Things only got worse after its premiere, with IMDb temporarily hiding the rating and box office numbers failing to cover its reported $350 million budget.

In fact, the studio paused development on its Rapunzel reboot following Snow White ’s underwhelming performance. But if Lilo & Stitch continues to win hearts and break records, don’t be surprised if Disney rethinks those plans.

So whether you’re a fan of the original or just looking for a feel-good summer flick, Lilo & Stitch might just be Disney’s redemption arc — and we’re here for every adorable, chaotic moment of it.

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