One of the funniest cartoon features in years

Rating: Null/10 (31 May 2002)

Disney's animation division roars back with one of the funniest and most imaginative cartoon features in years.
Starting in outer space, with a mad scientist on trial for creating a genetic monster (Stitch, a cross between a mutant koala and one of the Gremlins; but with a real mean attitude), the action shifts quickly to a Hawaiian island.
There, the standard Disney family of two orphan sisters (what IS it with Disney's idea of the modern family?!) Nani and the much younger Lilo, are struggling; Nani to hold down a job and keep the feisty Lilo from the social services, Lilo against the world.
When Stitch escapes from the space ship taking him into exile, he lands on the island, pursued by aliens intent on his recapture, only to be bought by Lilo, convinced he's a puppy!
What follows is some of the most inspired madness in years. Whatever the animators were on when they thought this one up, could I have some, please?! It's all in there; Elvis, nods and winks to classic films and series (check out the Godzilla` scene and the Jaws` tribute), perfect casting, bright colours, excellent sight and voice gags, glorious soundtrack, tightly told with none of the lags and pauses many films suffer from and, for once, the typical Disney message` (everyone needs a family) does not leave you desperately searching for the puke bag!
You know that line? The one about a film for children of all ages? This is it! Wanna know how good it is? I saw it in English with German subtitles. It was STILL funny!
I'm lucky, in that my work means I get to see a great many films. And what's been missing for so long has been a real story, well told. I'm tired of product placements and overpaid stars pretending to be real people with real problems, of by-the-numbers emoting and the cynical, smooth, manipulations of overpriced studio productions with their reliance on computer effects, lacking all originality.
Very rarely, you get to see a film which restores your faith in what cinema can be; a great experience shared jointly with strangers.
Lilo & Stitch` is that experience. For the first time in ages, I saw a film I truly enjoyed. It sets out to do nothing more than amuse and entertain and does so beyond all expectation.
You want a good time at the movies? This is it. Welcome back, Disney!