'Lilo & Stitch' Live-Action Trailer Sparks Debate Over Character Changes

The release of the first teaser for Disney's live-action ‘Lilo & Stitch’ remake has sparked discussion about a number of character changes.

Like the 2002 animated classic, the movie centres on Lilo, a little orphan who was raised by her teenage sister Nani following the loss of their parents.  Stitch, a highly modified alien animal, becomes her pet, and they develop a strong attachment.  Under the direction of Dean Fleischer Camp, Chris Sanders reprises his role as Stitch's voice, while Maia Kealoha plays Lilo.

various fans were unhappy with the modifications made to various characters, especially Billy Magnussen's character Pleakley, even though many others applauded the trailer.  Pleakley's new appearance alarmed some viewers, who described him as "terrifying" in online comments.  Others said that his trademark cross-dressing disguise was an integral part of his persona and objected to its removal.

Image Courtesy: People

Fans also criticized CIA operative Cobra Bubbles, pointing out that the character, who was formerly portrayed by Ving Rhames, was far less muscular than in the cartoon version.

 Some fans were happy to see minor touches from the original movie, such as the ice cream man who consistently drops his cone, despite the criticism.

 On 23rd May, ‘Lilo & Stitch’ will make its theatrical debut in the US and the UK.

–Farheen Ali