For 23 years, since the first time I “met” Experiment 626, I have been enamored and entranced. Here is that character that I can relate to. Someone mischievous, naughty, and downright clever, and because of him, since 2002, the 2nd most famous word in Hawaii after Aloha became Ohana.

Many of the people who have watched the newest live-action remake sniffled and bawled as their hearts got wrung tightly. So many could relate to this blue oddball, and it showed. Our kid, who, for the past seven years, has been the #1 fan of a particular bear from the Hundred Acre Wood, declared his new favorite is now Stitch.

Why? Because he sees himself in him. He is a rapscallion who, at times, perhaps goes overboard, but still has a lot to offer. Stitch is his spirit animal now, as he was mine years ago. And so Stitch remains relatable and endearing two decades later.

There were a few narrative changes from the original that may bother longtime fans, as there didn’t seem to be any reason for them other than to shake things up a bit. Stitch himself, though, has never looked better, brought to mischievous life with really, really well-done computer graphics. And all the other alien creatures, including Jumba and Pleakley, are spot on and serve as a bridge to the beloved cartoon version.

Tia Carrere, the original voice of Lilo’s sister, Nani, appears in the live-action remake as the social worker checking in on the sisters. Jason Scott Lee, the original voice of David, also appears briefly as the owner of the restaurant where Nani works.

The themes of family and acceptance that were the lifeblood of the classic cartoon run through the newer version as well, keeping it both entertaining and heartwarming.

Anyone who has a pet knows the feeling of having a furry friend become a part of the family. Despite having four legs (or six in Stitch’s case), a furry can be as much of a family member as anyone else.Seeing Lilo and Nani’s unique family situation teaches us that family comes in all shapes and sizes.

It also shows us that sometimes, when families are incomplete or when things turn hard, sacrifices have to be made. The meaning of Ohana becomes deeper and clearer. So, whether it is between humans, animals, or aliens, the LOVE between each member is evident.

Being perfect is not a requirement in families. It’s loving the person (or alien) completely, despite all the flaws and imperfections. A few moments of moralizing for the younger audience members aside, the live-action Lilo and Stitch is a fun, fun, fun watch for kids, that introduces them to friends from long ago, and is an excellent chance for those of us who knew Stitch and the gang from way back the to come and hang out.