A Behind-The-Scenes Sneak Peak at Disney’s Live-Action Lilo & Stitch

Almost 22 years after Lilo & Stitch is making a triumphant return to the big screen with a live-action remake.

For those unfamiliar with the cult classic, the 2002 film follows the story of an orphaned Hawaiian girl named Lilo, who resides with her teenage sister Nani on the picturesque island of Kaua’i. When Lilo struggles to fit in with girls her age, Nani decides to get her a pet dog for companionship. However, instead of finding a conventional pet, they encounter Stitch, an aggressive yet endearing genetically altered alien fugitive, evading capture and exile. Through the Hawaiian concept of Ohana, or extended family, Lilo and Stitch form a profound bond, prompting Stitch to reconsider his destructive tendencies to protect his newfound family.

The live-action remake aims to stay faithful to the essence of the original while introducing some new elements. Concerns arose among devoted Stitch fans regarding whether a live-action portrayal could capture the beloved character’s charm, especially in the wake of reactions to the realistic portrayal of Flounder in the recent Little Mermaid remake.

Fears have been mostly assuaged, though, as TikTokker @paulinapullara shared a sneak peek of the characters behind the scenes this week. Photos and videos taken from the set show an adorable albeit agitated Stitch driving around. Lilo’s live-action counterpart Maia Kealoha is also along for the ride.

Other members of the cast weren’t pictured in the sneak peek but have been confirmed. Tia Carrere, who voiced Nani, is set to return as the new social worker, Mrs. Kekoa and Zach Galifianakis will step in to play Stitch’s creator Dr. Jumba. CIA agent Bubbles is still expected to appear despite no longer playing the role of social worker and will be voiced by Courtney B. Vance.

After Covid delays, a costume trailer fire, and more, sneak peeks of the production provide an exciting hope for the future. The official release date has yet to be announced, but you can bet we will be staying tuned!