DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island is one of the most anticipated animated films coming out this year. Taking its cue from Filipino mythology, the film delves into themes of friendship and growing up, all while the protagonists are sucked into a world of chaos and fantasy.
Here’s what we know about the upcoming animated film.
Filipino Representation
The trailer shows Raissa and Jo—two best friends on the way to living different lives—as they are suddenly pulled into a magical realm through a mysterious portal which resembles the sun in the Philippine flag. As they find themselves trapped in the island, the pair’s memories begin to fade, prompting them to find a way home before they forget each other completely.
Along the way, the duo encounters mythical creatures from Filipino folklore, including a hapless weredog (Dave Franco), a tiyanak (Manny Jacinto), a batibat (Jenny Slate), and of course, one of the famous mythical creatures from the Philippines who is also the most feared creature on the island—the dreaded manananggal (Lea Salonga).
Still from Universal Pictures
Adding to the excitement, the film’s main protagonists, Raissa and Jo, are voiced by Filipino talents Liza Soberano and Gabriella Sarmiento Wilson, also known as the Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter, H.E.R. Their casting marks another major milestone for Filipino representation in Hollywood animation, bringing authenticity and heart to the film’s central friendship.
An OST Packed with Filipino Artists
Forgotten Island also celebrates Filipino music through an original soundtrack featuring some of the country’s biggest musicians. The OST includes BINI’s uplifting anthem “A Parallel World,” a heartfelt duet titled “BRB” by Liza Soberano and H.E.R., KATSEYE’s Sophia Laforteza remix cover of “Never Tear Us Apart” by NXS, SB19’s fresh take on Francis M.’s iconic hit “Mga Kababayan,” and a powerful collaboration between Ruby Ibarra and Carl Angelo in “Salbahe Ako.” Together, these songs capture the film’s themes of adventure, identity, friendship, and home while showcasing the diversity of Original Pilipino Music to a global audience.
A Story about Friendship and Memories
While Forgotten Island is filled with mythical creatures and breathtaking fantasy landscapes, the heart of its story lies in the friendship between Raissa and Jo. As the two best friends navigate the mysterious island, they are forced to confront fading memories that threaten not only their journey home, but also the bond they’ve shared for years. The film explores how memories shape our identity, reminding viewers that even in the most magical adventures, the people we love are what truly define us.
Easter Eggs Galore
The film is rife with countless easter eggs waiting to be discovered. Viewers can expect references hidden throughout the island, from colorful environments inspired by the Philippines’ natural beauty to 1990s Filipino pop culture. Some of the details spotted in the trailer include a jeepney—a famous mode of public transportation in the country—and a scene of Jo working at a local fried chicken restaurant, which may be a reference to the beloved Filipino fast-food chains such as Jollibee.
Still from Snipple Animation
The film also pays tribute to classic anime—a stalwart of Filipino pop culture, as dubbed anime made its way to the country in the 1980s. Scenes shift from modern 3D animation into stylized 2D sequences that are reminiscent of Sailor Moon and Dragon Ball Z. These memorable scenes were animated by Manila-based Snipple Animation, recognizing the Philippines’ long-standing contribution to the global animation industry.
Forgotten Island is co-directed by Joel Crawford and Filipino-American director Januel Mercado, the filmmakers behind DreamWorks Animation’s critically acclaimed Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.
With its rich Filipino mythology, talented cast, incredible soundtrack, heartfelt story, and love letter to Filipino culture, Forgotten Island is shaping up to be more than just another animated adventure. It’s a film that proudly puts Filipino stories, artists, and creativity on the global stage.
Watch the trailer here and catch Forgotten Island when it arrives in theaters on September 25, 2026!