Disney’s “Lilo & Stitch” has been a massive hit and continues to draw crowds to theaters! It’s on the brink of being the first film of 2025 to surpass $1 billion in box office earnings.
Variety’s Senior Awards Editor Clayton Davis told On The Red Carpet it’s a rare feat in these post-Covid times.
“In the current movie landscape, especially post-pandemic since 2020, achieving a billion-dollar box office is quite rare,” Davis explained. “Seeing ‘Lilo & Stitch’ so close to that milestone highlights that audiences and families are eager to watch films, particularly when it’s a popular franchise they know will be enjoyable.”
“The most recent film to hit a billion dollars was ‘Moana 2’ last year,” Davis added. “It’s not always guaranteed to reach the billion-dollar milestone, but when it happens, it’s certainly a great feeling.”
The original “Lilo & Stitch” animated film was released in 2002. Anticipation for the live-action re-imagining was high. Our first interview with Maia Kealoha, who plays Lilo, went viral on TikTok. You can see her reaction when On The Red Carpet’s George Pennacchio told her this in the video player above.
Audiences flocked to theaters. “Lilo & Stitch” was the number one film around the world opening weekend, earning $182.7 million in North America and $361.3 million globally.
Davis said as someone who loves the characters and appreciates nostalgia, he understands the “Lilo & Stitch” appeal.
“You can remember the animated movie while you’re watching the new reimagining of it and still feel that feeling that you felt when you first saw it back 20 years ago,” he said.
Sydney Agudong, who plays Nani, credits the movie’s family focus as a big part of its appeal.
“I think people will enjoy seeing families on screen and holding them tighter,” she said.
“What gets you to a billion dollar mark are repeat viewers. So it’s the kids coming the first time and wanting to come back to take it in all over again, and then most important parents willing to sit through it one more time. So there’s something in there for families, both kids and adults, that they can all enjoy and have a good time,” Davis said.
You and the family can still enjoy “Lilo & Stitch” at a theater near you.
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