Lilo & Stitch (2025) Discussion with Jack Martin
The latest episode of The Austin B Media Podcast is now available for everyone!
This week, I’m joined once again by film critic Jack Martin of Film Feeder to break down Disney's latest live-action remake, Lilo & Stitch (2025). We delve into our initial expectations, whether the film has any heart, the standout performances, the questionable pacing, and how it compares to the beloved 2002 original. Does it capture the ‘ohana spirit, or is it, as Jack says, just "kinda Lilo & Stitch?".
If you'd like to listen to our podcast about the original Lilo & Stitch (2002) first, you can do so here.
What's The Movie About?
Disney’s Lilo & Stitch (2025) is the live-action reimagining of the 2002 animated classic. The story follows the bond between a lonely Hawaiian girl named Lilo, who adopts a chaotic alien, Experiment 626, from a shelter, believing he's a dog. Through her love, faith, and unwavering belief in ‘ohana, Lilo helps unlock Stitch's heart, all while they try to evade intergalactic capture.
Chapters
00:08 – Introduction
00:34 – Guest Introduction: Jack Martin
04:13 – The 10-Year History of Film Feeder
06:45 – Movie Recommendations: The Ballad of Wallis Island & Opus
21:37 – First Impressions & Lack of Heart
26:27 – Critique of the Film's Pacing and Editing
33:51 – Standout Performances
43:03 – The Underwhelming Alien Designs
47:03 – The Portrayal of Hawaii & The Lack of Elvis
54:02 – Was This Meant for Theaters or Streaming?
59:18 – The State of Disney's Remake Strategy
01:14:21 – Spoiler Warning
01:14:48 – Stitch's Character Arc
01:19:30 – Jumba as the Villain & Franchise Implications
01:25:30 – The Human Story: Lilo, Nani, and 'Ohana
01:28:02 – The Controversial Ending
01:35:05 – David and Cobra Bubbles' Roles
01:42:25 – Final Thoughts & The Future of Disney
01:52:50 – Outro
Support The Show
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Join here: Patreon.com/AustinBMedia
Where to Watch Lilo & Stitch (2025)
Where to Find Our Recommendations
Jack's Recommendation: The Ballad of Wallis Island is available to stream on Peacock in the US.
My Recommendation: Opus is available to rent and will likely stream on Max.
Where to Follow Austin B Media
Where to Follow Jack & Film Feeder
Until next time!