surprising hit

Rating: Null/10 (18 April 2003)

Considering that the Disney corporation has in recent years downsized its traditional cell department for computer animation, it is a relief that "Lilo and Stitch" did as well as it did with such a bold style. The film is a radical departure from the traditional Disney formula. Unlike past films there are no cute cuddly mascot-like side characters like Abu (Aladdin) or Meeko and Flit (Pocahontas) to muddle up the plot or steal the comedy. The laughs are completely owned by the main players --- Dani, Lilo, Stitch, et al. Also refreshing is the bold anime-like style that is used by the studio. It has been a long time ---at least since the 1940s that the Disney Corporation has chosen such a direction and it works so well here. The lush colours and the lack of details (which reminded me more of the latest selection from the Legend of Zelda than it does of Disney) was refreshing. Also bold was the setting --- science fiction is very a-typical of tradional Disney fare). The characters were also different as is the direction of the plot. I almost expected a different ending to this picture but Disney remained true to its traditions --- at least in this one respect. Although this film might be seen in the future as perhaps the death knell of cell productions, (and I hope this is not the trend) what a masterful close to an era it makes.