Disney Faces Global Boycott Threats Over Lilo & Stitch Character Change

Disney's live-action remake of "Lilo & Stitch" has generated mixed reactions ahead of its May 23 release. Actor Kaipo Dudoit expressed enthusiasm about portraying David, emphasizing the film's celebration of Hawaiian culture and family bonds. However, fans have voiced significant dissatisfaction, particularly regarding the director Dean Fleischer Camp's decision to omit the character Pleakley's iconic cross-dressing disguise, a notable comedic element from the original 2002 animated film. Camp acknowledged attempts to retain this aspect but ultimately did not include it, leading to threats of boycotts reminiscent of the backlash Disney faced with its recent "Snow White" remake. This controversy highlights broader challenges Disney faces with its live-action remakes, as the studio's future in this genre is under scrutiny following recent underperformances. Upcoming remakes like "Lilo & Stitch" and "Moana" are therefore pivotal tests for Disney's strategy, with potential shifts in creative direction if these films fail to meet expectations.