It was an experience straight out of a fairy tale: the chance to meet a dragon.

Central Florida’s first big theme park debut since 1999 was designed with modern features to align with the expectations of today’s consumers.

Epic Universe, the first major new theme park in the US in 20-plus years, is opening in Orlando, Florida, on Thursday.

The new “Lilo & Stitch” constitutes adequate if wearying fan service at best, and at worst, a new reason to check in with your dentist about a mouth guard for apparent teeth-grinding.

The plot is effectively the same. Lilo is struggling to fit in after her parents’ death. Stitch (original director Chris Sanders) is on the run from an alien governmental body, disguising himself poor...