Disney's latest will leave you in 'Stitch'es'

Lilo and Stitch -- PG
Starring: Daveigh Chase, Tia Carrere
Directed by: Dean Deblois, Chris Sanders
Showing: Showplace East 11 I will try not to use the word cute to describe this movie, but truthfully there probably isn't any other way to describe it. Charming, delightfully refreshing and surprisingly funny, this animated adventure is prefect for kids and parents alike. Echoing a similar masterpiece, this "E.T."-esque film bonds a misunderstood Hawaiian girl named Lilo with her new dog and best friend, Stitch, a genetically created destructive alien. These two unlikely characters are both lost and alone, and ultimately form the prefect duo. Their ensuing tale fills theaters with a wholesome mix of laughter and "awww's." Lilo is the sad female animated equivalent of Elliott from "E.T." Alienated by her friends, Lilo has difficulty fitting in anywhere. On top of her difficulties at school, she is a huge troublemaker for her big sister Nani, who was left in charge of her after their parents were killed, and is now they are watched constantly by social services. On the other side of the galaxy, an alien inventor is being prosecuted for his genetic experiment -- the creation of an unstoppable destructive force called experiment 626. The galactic counsel decides to banish this experiment and imprison the creator when he gets loose, steals an interstellar cruiser and crash lands in Hawaii. Desperately seeking a playmate, Lilo goes to the pound, adopts a little blue dog and names it Stitch. Absolutely adorable, yet prone to wrecking maximum havoc everywhere, Lilo slowly befriends Stitch, introduces him to Elvis while teaching him about true friendship and family. Of course, Stitch isn't the only alien to drop by, and soon it seems the entire galaxy is after this mini menace. Call it old fashioned, but this Disney film has all the elements of a great message and a story that transcends all cultures and communities. It's reminiscent of the old Disney family films, such as "The Jungle Book" and the classic "The Lion King." If these two can be friends, then anyone can. If the world can handle this kind of dysfunctional family, then any kind of family can survive. "Lilo and Stitch" is heartwarming, amusing and a must see for the summer.