DreamWorks Animation to Explore Philippine Mythology in 'Forgotten Island'
Directed by the 'Puss in Boots: The Last Wish' team, the musical fantasy arrives in theaters September 25, 2026.
DreamWorks Animation is set to release "Forgotten Island," a musical fantasy film that blends Philippine mythology with contemporary animation. The movie arrives in theaters on September 25, 2026.
Produced by DreamWorks and distributed by Universal Pictures, the film is directed by Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, the duo behind "Puss in Boots: The Last Wish." The story is set in the Philippines and follows two protagonists, Jo, voiced by H.E.R., and Raissa, voiced by Liza Soberano. The plot centers on the discovery of a portal leading to Nakali, a fantastical island inhabited by creatures from Philippine folklore, including the Manananggal, voiced by Lea Salonga. Manny Jacinto also joins the all-star voice cast.
A Strategic Pivot to Mythology
The film arrives as DreamWorks seeks to capitalize on the "musical-meets-mythology" trend. It is being positioned as a spiritual successor to the anime-inspired aesthetic and themes of friendship and magical combat seen in the hit "Kpop Demon Hunters." By utilizing a similar visual language, DreamWorks is targeting an audience that has shown a strong appetite for high-energy, music-driven narratives paired with non-Western cultural elements.
Cultural Impact and Representation
Beyond the commercial strategy, "Forgotten Island" represents a significant push for Filipino representation in major Western animated features. By centering the narrative on Philippine culture and integrating specific mythological entities like the Manananggal, the studio is expanding the diversity of folklore presented in global cinema. This move allows the studio to tap into a specific cultural heritage while appealing to a broader international market interested in diverse storytelling.
What to Watch
As the September 2026 release approaches, industry observers will be watching to see if the film can replicate the viral success of its spiritual predecessors. While the core plot and voice cast are confirmed, further details regarding the full soundtrack and specific narrative arcs remain under wraps. The film's success will likely determine if DreamWorks continues to invest in region-specific mythological fantasies as a primary pillar of its animation slate.