Lilo & Stitch is set to receive a live-action remake on Disney+, news which has been welcomed by fans of the beloved animated franchise.
Given the continued popularity of the property, we can't help but wonder why this isn't going to be a theatrical release and hope it ends up being better than last year's Pinocchio. Regardless, the movie is quickly beginning to take shape, with The Hangover star Zach Galifianakis recently tapped to play Pleakley.
Moana star Auli'i Cravalho remains a fan-favourite choice to play Nani, Lilo's older sister, but the title character herself has yet to be cast.
The same could be said for just about every major role at this stage, but a casting call from Project Casting confirms we'll see at least one fan-favourite antagonist make her presence felt.
Disney is searching for a child to play Mertle, the bully who picks on Lilo and is ultimately attacked by Stitch. Based on the description, the plan is to remain loyal to the original movie as they're looking for a girl who is, "7-8 years old, Wild Red Hair, 'unusually snobby for her age,' she enjoys picking on Lilo."
Lilo & Stitch spawned several sequels and small screen spin-offs and you can't go into any Disney-related store without seeing tonnes of merchandise based on the loveable alien.
With that in mind, we wouldn't be shocked if this movie eventually pivots to a theatrical release, especially with returning Disney CEO Bob Iger looking to spend less on streaming titles.
Dean Fleischer Camp (Marcel the Shell with Shoes On) is directing Disney+'s Lilo & Stitch, while Chris Kekaniokalani Bright, Dean DeBlois, Chris Sanders, and Mike Van Waes are all expected to receive writing credits. Dan Lin and Jonathan Eirich of Rideback (Aladdin) are attached to produce the project.
As of right now, Lilo & Stitch doesn't have a confirmed release date.