Spoiler Alert
After watching the live-action version of Lilo & Stitch (movie review link), I needed a palate cleanser—so I turned to both the American and Japanese animated series. Of the two, Stitch! The Series offers much more to appreciate than the live-action take. It better explores the meaning of family (Ohana), and even when the latest adaptation strays from canon, just hearing Jumba boast about his evil genius was enough to win me over.
Overall, I found the Asian series much better. A few episodes break away from the usual formula. The U.S. version follows a “gotta catch ‘em all” approach, with Lilo finding and giving homes to the 625 loose experiments with Stitch’s help. Fans will admire her perseverance, especially after this fuzz ball talks about family a lot, and misses it. That’s because all these genetic creations, the experiments, share a bond and the more popular ones have a recurring role. Jumba, as their creator, is like a father who must accept responsibility for them.
Meanwhile, the anime shows Peakly doing what he does best: cross-dressing and attempting to adapt to Earth’s culture. That’s where the 2025 film falls short—it ignores some of the unique elements that made the franchise beloved worldwide. While Stitch is the focal point for most fans, I think this series best explains why he remains so beloved. Not only does it celebrate Okinawan culture, but it also explores an emotional turning point that other versions avoid.
When Lilo grows up and starts dating, it’s no surprise that her childhood alien companion reacts poorly. The first episode shows him running away. After crash-landing in Japan, he meets a new girl who offers him a fresh start. He must learn how to be good again.
There are many standout episodes, and here are my top five:
“Yuna vs. Jessica” (Season 3, Episode 2)
This episode highlights Yuna’s desire to help others. Having moved to the big city, she faces the usual coming-of-age challenges—making friends and dealing with bullies. The episode effectively captures the emotional struggles of a tween adjusting to a new life.
“New Town” (Season 3, Episode 1)
Few series shift their setting so drastically. When Stitch and Yuna move to Newtown, the emotional growth they undergo is notable. Without Grandma around, they must handle challenges on their own. The addition of new characters and an exasperating teacher helps set the stage for change.
“Lilo” (Season 3, Episode 23)
This touching episode confirms that about seven years have passed. Lilo is now married with a daughter who looks just like her. She and Stitch never reunited after he left for a space mission. When he finally returns, even more time has gone by. Even Nani also has a role. This episode acts as a heartfelt reunion and provides closure—if you consider the Japanese series canon.
“Experiment Zero” (Season 2, Episode 29)
A must-watch for Jumba fans. Before Stitch (Experiment 626), there was Experiment Zero—a creature resembling Stitch but with a darker edge. Jumba knew this prototype was dangerous, yet couldn’t bring himself to destroy it, choosing instead to imprison it. When it escapes, the showdown that follows is intense. I won’t spoil more, but it’s a battle for the ages.
Stitch! Japanese Trailer
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