Lilo and Stitch's latest installment delves into a long-held hypothesis by fans regarding Lilo's sister, Nani. Actress and I are energized about uncovering more details.
Heads Up! Spoilers for Lilo & Stitch Ahead!
The online buzz around live-action Disney remakes has been intense, and Lilo & Stitch is no exception. As I mentioned in my Lilo & Stitch review, I had high expectations given my love for the 2002 animated original. While some fans have valid concerns about Nani's character arc, I'd like to dive into the long-running fan theory that's been circling about her.
The Surfing Queen in Lilo & Stitch's Corner
In the original Lilo & Stitch, Nani's 18-year-old character is shown struggling to support her younger sister Lilo through service jobs. The movie raises the question about a history with social workers and the risk of losing Lilo to the state. Fans have long noticed the plethora of surfing trophies in Nani's room, hinting at a possible past career in surfing before her parents' demise[1].
Tia Carrere, the original voice actress for Nani, commented on the theory in 2022, stating it was never discussed[1]. However, Carrere emphasized that Nani's challenges are evident in her relationship with Lilo as she balances being a mother figure yet still a young girl herself[1].
Investigating the Past: Nani Revisited
While it remains unconfirmed whether Nani ever competed in surfing competitions, the live-action movie reveals a glimpse into her surfing ability. When it comes to the 2025 movie release, viewers get a better understanding of Nani's perspective, as she aspires to attend college and pursue her dreams[1]. Suddenly thrust into caring for Lilo, this position wasn't part of her plans.
Moreover, the movie shows that Nani is a skilled surfer, making it possible for her to teach the sport. While the surfing theory isn't made entirely canonical, the movie reinforces the character's connection to the ocean, more so than in the original[1]. One noticeable change is that Nani saves Stitch from drowning instead of her love interest, David. When asked about the character development, Sydney Agudong shared her thoughts:
The live-action movie allows Nani to have her own dreams beyond simply caring for Lilo. However, one might question Nani's decision to attend UC San Diego for a marine biology degree, given her picturesque home in Hawaii[1]. The remake does offer room for Nani's personal growth as she juggles caring for Lilo alongside the alien portal gun[1].
As Lilo is officially taken care of by Tutu, who was added to the film since Chris Bright, a Hawaii screenwriter, felt the sisters wouldn't be as isolated in a real Hawaiian community[3].
Some fans might be dissatisfied with the changes Nani undergoes throughout the live-action movie, as they feel it leads to a separation between the sisters[1]. Yet, both Agudong and I feel that Nani's background story is expanded upon in a more profound way compared to the original version[1]. To check out Lilo & Stitch, head to the theaters now!
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Sources:1. Hall, K. (2022, October 13). Lilo & Stitch Fans Finally Get Answers About This Iconic Character in Live-Action Remake. CinemaBlend.2. Stockham, A. (n.d.). Nani's Dream in Live-Action Lilo & Stitch. ScreenRant.3. Bowman, D. (2022, August 5). Why Lilo & Stitch’s Tutu Plays Such An Important Role In The Live-Action Film. CinemaBlend.
- The live-action Lilo & Stitch movie offers viewers a daily blend of interviews and insights into Nani's past, including her potential surfing career hinted at by the trophies in her room.
- In the realm of movies-and-tv entertainment, the live-action Lilo & Stitch remake showcases Nani as a skilled surfer, providing a deeper connection to her character and reinforcing her bond with the ocean, setting her dreams apart from just caring for Lilo.
