Disney's Lilo & Stitch Remake Under Fire for Cultural Misrepresentation

The recent live-action remake of Disney's Lilo & Stitch has sparked debate among Native Hawaiians, with some criticizing the portrayal of key characters. Hiililylani, a Native Hawaiian actress and educator, voiced her concerns in a viral video, questioning changes to Nani's character. "In this version, it seems to be more of the screenwriter’s story instead. Plus, American propaganda," she stated. Hiililylani points out that in the original film, Nani was a surfer, a detail absent in the remake. This alteration, she argues, removes a crucial aspect of Nani's identity and the cultural significance of surfing in Hawaii. The video has garnered significant attention, highlighting the importance of accurate and respectful representation of Native Hawaiian culture in mainstream media.