The cast and crew of the forthcoming live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch are celebrating its upcoming release at the El Capitan Theatre on Saturday (May 17) in Hollywood!

Lilo & Stitch is the story of a lonely Hawaiian girl and the fugitive alien who helps to mend her broken family. Maia Kealoha plays Lilo, while Chris Sanders voices Stitch. The live-action reimagining of Disney’s 2002 animated classic opens exclusively in movie theaters on May 23 in Dolby Cinema, RealD 3D, Cinemark XD, 4DX, and premium screens everywhere.

Cast members attending the celebration included Maia, Chris, Courtney B. Vance, Zach Galifianakis, Sydney Elizebeth Agudong, Billy Magnussen, Kaipo Dudoit, and Amy Hill. They were joined by director Dean Fleischer Camp, screenwriters Chris Kekaniokalani Bright and Mike Van Waes, producer Jonathan Eirich, executive producers Tom Peitzman, Ryan Halprin, and Louie Provost, composer Dan Romer, and soundtrack artists Iam Tongi, Nyjah Music, and Zyah Rhythm.

Guests in attendance were treated to a variety of Hawaiian-themed activities on the blue carpet prior to the daytime screening, including hula dancers and a traditional Hawaiian protocol ceremony.

In addition, select members of the press got to experience the movie early, and have begun sharing their reactions on social media.

Keep reading to find out more…

Critic Wendy Lee Szany wrote: “Lilo and Stitch is the best Disney live-action to date. Seeing Stitch in his live-action form on the big screen brings on a huge wave of nostalgia. Tons of laughter and heartwarming moments. The film hits similar beats to the original, as well added something new flavors.”

Journalist Laura Sirikul wrote: “Lilo and Stitch was heartwarming & really gave the official film more depth to Lilo & Nani. Maia Kealoha is a STAR! The Stitch was so well made. I never imagined in 23 years they’d be able to merge animation w/ live action this well. It was magical. Very sweet.”