Disney+ is now streaming the live-action remake of “Lilo & Stitch,” a family-friendly science fiction film that captivated audiences in theaters this past May. The arrival of the film on the streaming platform offers a convenient way for families to enjoy the story, and represents a significant win for Disney following a period of fluctuating performance.
The original animated “Lilo & Stitch” debuted in 2002, transporting audiences to Hawaii and introducing a unique bond between a lonely young girl and an unconventional extraterrestrial. Over two decades later, Disney revisited the story with a live-action adaptation, a strategy the studio has increasingly employed in recent years. While some of these remakes have garnered critical and commercial success, others have faced criticism for failing to capture the magic of the originals.
However, the 2025 “Lilo & Stitch” remake proved to be a resounding success, exceeding expectations both domestically and internationally. The film has reportedly grossed over $1 billion worldwide, becoming the first Hollywood movie to reach that milestone in 2025. In France alone, more than 5 million viewers flocked to cinemas to experience the live-action version, drawn in by the visually appealing portrayal of Stitch and the heartwarming narrative.
According to comments on the AlloCiné website, many viewers found the live-action Stitch to be particularly endearing. One user, Bryan_, commented, “Visually, Stitch is to die for!” This positive reception, coupled with the film’s faithful adaptation of the original story – with the addition of 20 minutes of new scenes – resonated with audiences of all ages. The film’s themes of friendship, acceptance, and the importance of family struck a chord, prompting emotional responses from viewers.
Alice025, another AlloCiné user, shared, “The landscapes are magnificent, and Hawaiian culture is well represented. I won’t hide the fact that I shed several tears at the end, conveying a beautiful message about the notion of family. A very successful Disney adaptation.”
The success of “Lilo & Stitch” is particularly noteworthy given Disney’s recent economic challenges. The film’s strong performance has provided a much-needed boost to the studio, offering a glimmer of hope for a more positive future. It demonstrates that a well-told story, compelling characters, and effective execution can still deliver the magic that audiences crave.
The film follows the story of Lilo, a young Hawaiian girl who forms an unlikely friendship with Stitch, an alien who crash-lands on Earth. Together, they navigate the challenges of family, belonging, and self-acceptance, all while evading those who seek to recapture Stitch. The cast includes Maia Kealoha as Lilo and Sydney Agudong as her older sister, Nani.
Disney is currently offering a streaming bundle that includes Disney+, ESPN Unlimited, and Hulu for $29.99 per month with ads, or $38.99 ad-free. This offer is available to new subscribers through January 5, 2026, before reverting to a price of $35.99 to $44.99 per month.
Interestingly, the success of the 2025 remake has led to a decision by Disney to remove the original 2002 animated “Lilo & Stitch” from Disney+. According to reports, Disney CEO Bob Iger believes the remake is a superior version of the story, and that focusing on the newer film will be beneficial. This move has sparked debate among fans, with some expressing disappointment at the loss of access to the original.
The decision to remove the original film highlights the studio’s investment in its live-action remakes and its confidence in their potential to attract new audiences. While some may lament the loss of the classic animation, Disney is clearly betting on the continued success of its reimagined stories.
“Lilo & Stitch” is now available to stream on Disney+, offering a heartwarming and visually stunning experience for families. The film’s success serves as a reminder of the enduring power of storytelling and the importance of connecting with audiences on an emotional level.
