Craig Hammack

Overall VFX Supervisor, Lilo & Stitch, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM)

Bringing one of Disney’s most beloved animated films into the live-action realm is no small task—especially when your lead is a chaotic, blue alien with six limbs (sometimes), fur, and a deep emotional core. This presentation explores the visual effects journey behind the 2025 live-action adaptation of Lilo & Stitch, highlighting the creative, technical, and logistical challenges of reimagining the film for a new generation.

From translating Stitch’s iconic design into a fully CG photoreal character, to seamlessly integrating him into complex practical environments, this talk covers every layer of the VFX pipeline—from design philosophy and character animation to fur rendering and emotional nuance. Case studies will include specific scenes from the film as well as a discussion of prep and philosophy for shooting an intimate live action hybrid movie.

Audiences will leave with insight into how chaos, creativity, and old-fashioned artistry came together to honor the spirit of the original while boldly exploring new visual ground.