DreamWorks Animation brings Filipino folklore to 'Forgotten Island'

DreamWorks Animation will release 'Forgotten Island' in theaters on September 25, 2026. The fantasy adventure marks a significant cultural milestone by integrating Filipino folklore into a major Western animation production.

Directed and written by Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado—the creative duo behind 'Puss in Boots: The Last Wish'—the film follows two high school graduates, Jo and Raissa. Voiced by H.E.R. and Liza Soberano, the protagonists are transported to Nakali, a mystical realm where they must navigate strange landscapes and confront memory loss to find their way home. The ensemble voice cast also features Dave Franco as Raww, Manny Jacinto as Bungi, Jenny Slate as Batiba, Ronny Chieng as King Truffle Wuffle, and Dolly de Leon as Lola Fatima.

A Deep Dive into Filipino Heritage

The production leans heavily into the cultural heritage of the Philippines, blending mythical elements with personal storytelling. A central feature of the film is its use of traditional folklore, most notably through the character of Manang, voiced by Lea Salonga. Manang is a Manananggal, a creature from Filipino myth known for the ability to bisect its body at the waist.

By centering the narrative around Nakali and the guidance of characters like Lola Fatima, the film bridges the gap between everyday Filipino life and the supernatural. This approach allows the studio to explore themes of friendship and shared history through a lens of specific cultural identity, moving beyond generic fantasy tropes to create a distinct visual and narrative identity that appeals to both the Filipino diaspora and global audiences.

Industry Implications

'Forgotten Island' represents a strategic shift for DreamWorks as it leverages the success of the stylized, critically acclaimed 'Puss in Boots: The Last Wish' to push the boundaries of family-friendly animation. By introducing more ominous villains and complex personal stakes, the studio is moving toward a more mature form of storytelling within the animation genre.

Furthermore, the inclusion of a diverse cast and specific regional folklore signals an increasing industry trend toward authentic global representation. The film utilizes specific mythological figures to ground its world-building, ensuring that the cultural elements are not merely aesthetic but integral to the plot and character development.

What to Watch

As the September 2026 release date approaches, industry observers will be watching to see how the film's unique blend of folklore and modern animation is received by critics and audiences. While the core production team and cast are confirmed, further details regarding the specific mechanics of the protagonists' memory loss and the full scope of the world of Nakali remain to be fully detailed in upcoming promotional materials.