SM Seaside City Cebu, one of the largest lifestyle and retail destinations in the Philippines, hosted the exclusive Cebu premiere of Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch on Sunday, underscoring its role as a key player in bringing global entertainment experiences to regional markets.
Held at the mall’s Large Screen Cinema at the City Wing, the event drew families, Disney fans, and media partners for an early viewing of the reimagined classic.
The film features newcomer Maia Kealoha as Lilo and marks the return of Chris Sanders—the original voice of Stitch—delivering a nostalgic yet fresh take on the beloved 2002 animated hit.
The premiere, which included themed activities and community engagement components, is part of SM Supermalls’ broader strategy to localize premium entertainment experiences in major growth hubs outside Metro Manila.
SM Seaside City Cebu, in particular, has positioned itself as a regional anchor for high-profile film events, fan-first activities, and lifestyle innovations that drive foot traffic and brand engagement.
The timing of the event comes just ahead of the nationwide release of Lilo & Stitch on May 21, 2025, as Disney continues to expand its footprint in Southeast Asia’s family entertainment market.
The remake is expected to perform strongly across Asia-Pacific markets, riding on the success of previous Disney live-action adaptations.
SM Seaside City Cebu’s ongoing efforts to collaborate with major film distributors and studios not only boost mall traffic but also stimulate local economic activity by drawing consumers to ancillary businesses including dining, fashion, and travel retail.
The premiere further highlights SM’s integrated approach to lifestyle mall development—merging retail, entertainment, and community programming to create holistic consumer destinations.
Business News Asia