In an exciting turn of events at the global box office, Disney’s live-action remake of “Lilo and Stitch” has surpassed Tom Cruise’s latest film, “Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning,” proving to be a crowd favorite. The weekend saw these two blockbuster films battling for dominance, ultimately resulting in record-breaking ticket sales that speak volumes about their respective popularity.
**Lilo and Stitch Shatters Expectations**
Disney’s much-anticipated “Lilo and Stitch,” which revisits the beloved animated classic from 2002, has made a significant impact, grossing an impressive $341 million (approximately £252 million) globally. This remarkable figure not only highlights the film’s success but also positions it as the second-highest opening of 2025, just behind “A Minecraft Movie.” Furthermore, “Lilo and Stitch” set a new record for the Memorial Day weekend in the United States, showcasing the draw of nostalgic stories transformed into live-action.
The film features a young eight-year-old Maia Kealoha alongside a computer-generated alien named Stitch, creating a unique blend of adventure and heartwarming moments. The combination of a fresh cast and the beloved narrative has allowed “Lilo and Stitch” to resonate with audiences, both young and old. The film’s ability to capture the essence of the original while adding a modern twist has been integral to its box office success.
**Tom Cruise’s Mission: Impossible Makes Waves**
On the other hand, “Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning,” which serves as the eighth installment in the popular franchise, has also performed admirably, earning $190 million (£140 million) in ticket sales. Tom Cruise, who has portrayed the iconic secret agent Ethan Hunt since 1996, has hinted that this may be his last appearance in the series, as he expressed in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter: “It’s the final! It’s not called ‘final’ for nothing.”
The film has garnered mixed reviews, with some praising it as an adventurous and entertaining spectacle. The Guardian heralded it as a “wildly entertaining adventure,” while Vanity Fair described it as a “worthy send-off.” Despite the hype, other critics have been less enthusiastic, with the Hollywood Reporter calling it a “disappointing farewell” and Mashable suggesting that the series could end with a somewhat lackluster finale.
**Reception and Future Speculations**
While Tom Cruise’s film has made waves, there remains uncertainty regarding whether this installment will truly mark the end of the franchise. Given the meta nature of modern Hollywood, many fans are speculating if the “final” label will lead to further entries in the “Mission: Impossible” saga. This ambiguity adds a layer of intrigue that continues to engage audiences, as they anticipate what Cruise may do next.
In contrast, “Lilo and Stitch” has entered the live-action remake landscape as one of Disney’s successful adaptations. Following in the footsteps of high-grossing films like “The Lion King” (2019) and “Beauty and the Beast” (2017), “Lilo and Stitch” quickly secured its place as the third-best opening for a live-action Disney remake. Critics have labeled it as “jovial, zany, and sweet,” while others have expressed disappointment through strong critiques, calling parts of it a “mind-numbing abomination.”
Overall, the box office battle between these two films reveals a fascinating interplay of nostalgia and high-flying action that captivates audiences around the world. While “Lilo and Stitch” appeals to families with its endearing story and characters, “Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning” draws in action enthusiasts eager for thrilling escapades. As the summer movie season progresses, the ongoing success of these films will surely shape the conversation about what audiences are craving—be it heartfelt tales or adrenaline-pumping adventures.
In conclusion, this weekend has highlighted not merely the financial figures but also the emotional investment viewers have in both franchises, demonstrating the power of storytelling in cinema today.