In a year packed with box office surprises, one underdog story has risen above the rest. Disney’s live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch has officially surpassed the gritty thriller Sinners to become the second-highest grossing film of 2025, just behind the still-dominant Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning.
With strong word-of-mouth, family appeal, and international traction, Lilo & Stitch has become the kind of hit studios dream of—combining nostalgia with fresh energy to deliver a global success.
Box Office Breakdown
As of this week, Lilo & Stitch has earned an estimated $987 million worldwide, edging past Sinners, which holds strong at $965 million. What started as a modest release with a built-in fan base has become a box office juggernaut, fueled by:
- Repeat family viewings
- Positive reviews praising its heart and visuals
- International success, particularly in Europe and Latin America
- Viral momentum on TikTok and Instagram, reviving love for the characters
Why It Worked: Heart, Humor & Legacy
Disney’s 2025 Lilo & Stitch remake struck a rare balance—it honored the beloved 2002 original while adding emotional weight and live-action spectacle. Directed by rising filmmaker Ava Daniels, the film captures the Hawaiian setting in rich detail and deepens the bond between Lilo and Stitch with new story layers.
Critics and fans alike have praised the young lead’s performance, the updated CGI Stitch (adorably mischievous as ever), and a soundtrack that blends the original’s Elvis charm with contemporary island-inspired music.
How It Stacked Up Against Sinners
While Sinners, a stylized crime thriller starring Oscar nominee Noah Lennox, took early box office gold with its dark themes and gripping plot, it appealed mostly to older audiences. In contrast, Lilo & Stitch brought in a broader demographic, from families and teens to nostalgic millennials, giving it longer legs in theaters.
Lilo & Stitch also had the benefit of a strong international rollout, outperforming Sinners in key overseas markets thanks to its family-friendly tone and established brand recognition.
A Cultural Phenomenon (Again)
This isn’t just a win for Disney—it’s a reminder of the power of beloved characters reimagined for a new generation. Stitch, the chaotic-yet-lovable alien, has once again captured the hearts of audiences across the globe. The film’s themes of family, loss, and unconditional love resonate now just as powerfully as they did over two decades ago.
Final Thoughts
Lilo & Stitch surpassing Sinners proves that audiences still crave stories with heart and soul, especially when told with sincerity and creativity. As the film continues to perform in theaters and builds momentum for its streaming release on Disney+, it’s clear that “ohana” means family—and family means box office gold in 2025.
Now playing in theaters worldwide.
Have you seen Lilo & Stitch yet? Share your favorite moments!
Leave a comment