Disney Lilo and Stitch recaptures hearts across the nation

When I heard that the brand new Disney Lilo and Stitch live action movie was coming out last month, I was very excited. I recall watching the original animated version as an adult and wondering why I waited so long to watch. I have had this happen many times before: I hold out, thinking that Disney will not impress, but later find I was wrong. The irony is that Disney’s Lilo and Stitch live action, just as the original animated film, has a story that reflects my own.

Because the Lilo and Stitch movies reflect my own childhood in a way, I thought it would be fitting to discuss the story and themes further. We have already seen reviews, heard what many liked and disliked, but have we discussed the themes and universal impact (pun intended)?

Background of story

If you’re not familiar with the story, it follows a young girl named Lilo, who finds herself at odds with everyone. Lilo just wants to be accepted, and to have a true friend, but only ends up teased by others. In Disney’s Lilo & Stitch movie, we find hope and the power of love as the story unfolds. An alien, Experiment 626, who also seems to be just as misunderstood as Lilo, is about to be exiled to Earth. The little alien seems to be nothing more than a ravaging menace to society and the universe as a whole. Yet, when Experiment 626 crosses paths with Lilo, an unlikely friendship is born. Lilo “adopts” the little alien, believing it is a dog from the shelter, and names it Stitch.

Disney’s Lilo and Stitch live action film primarily keeps true to the original animated film in its storyline. We follow Lilo and Stitch on a crazy adventure on the island of Oahu. Nani, Lilo’s older sister, is struggling to prove herself as well, as she tries to juggle the responsibilities of an adult. There is a sense of heartbreaking loss, as we learn that Lilo and Nani lost their parents not long ago. Consequently, Nani feels angry because the loss meant they were abandoned by family. Yet, Lilo still believes in her Ohana (family), and reminds Nani of what their parents always said – “Ohana means family. Family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten.”

There were actually multiple Lilo and Stitch animated films that were made. The second film, Lilo and Stitch 2, focuses on the themes of good vs bad, forgiveness, and redemption a lot more heavily. We are also introduced to more fun facts about Elvis Presley, aka the King, and Hawaiian culture – such as hula dance and mythology.

The meaning of Ohana

As we follow the story of Lilo, Stitch, and Nani, we discover that even in the face of danger, love will win. We see this play out multiple times through the film. While the new Disney’s Lilo & Stitch live action strays from the original ending in the animated film, it is true to the Hawaiian way. We see how the meaning of Ohana is more than just blood relatives. We are given a glimpse into the way of hanai Ohana.

In order to understand the depth of meaning for Ohana, one must look at the etymology. “Oha” refers to the shoots that come out from the taro plant, considered an ancient relative to the Native Hawaiians. The Oha represent the many people who make up a family, in the important bond. Hanai expands upon this, as in Hawaiian culture, it was common for grandparents and other relatives to care for the grandchildren.

Themes in Lilo and Stitch movies

Whether we look at the themes in the original animated film, or the live action just released, we will find a story of redemption, love, and what really makes family. The themes of good and bad, acceptance, friendship, and forgiveness are wrapped up beautifully in the Lilo and Stitch story.

Some other themes encountered are the themes of:

• loss
• family bonds
• doing what is right
• being responsible
• working hard
• loyalty in family and friendship
• showing grace
• second chances
• adoption (in a broader sense compared to mainland practices)
• and love being greater than bad

Do you have other themes noticed that aren’t mentioned? Drop a comment and let me know!