Disney's 'Lilo & Stitch' Live-Action Trailer Sparks Both Excitement and Criticism

While fans praise the trailer's faithfulness to the original, changes to key characters like Pleakley have drawn mixed reactions.

Disney's live-action 'Lilo & Stitch' is set for a May 23, 2025, release, with Maia Kealoha as Lilo and Chris Sanders reprising his role as Stitch's voice.
The trailer has been celebrated for its nostalgic recreation of iconic scenes, including the Elvis soundtrack and the beloved ice cream-dropping character.
Many fans expressed disappointment over the decision to portray Pleakley in a human disguise, omitting his cross-dressing humor from the original animated movie.
Casting for Nani has faced criticism over concerns about skin tone and representation of Native Hawaiian identity, sparking broader discussions about cultural authenticity.
Directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, the film has generated cautious optimism, with some viewers hopeful it could be one of Disney's better live-action remakes.