Universal Pictures has officially released the first trailer for Forgotten Island, a groundbreaking animated project from DreamWorks Animation that dives deep into the rich tapestry of Philippine mythology. Scheduled for a theatrical release on September 25, 2026, the film is already generating significant buzz for its authentic representation of Southeast Asian folklore and its star-studded voice cast.
Directed and written by the creative duo Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, Forgotten Island features an impressive lineup of talent including Grammy and Oscar winner H.E.R., Liza Soberano, Dave Franco, Jenny Slate, Manny Jacinto, and the legendary Lea Salonga. The story follows two lifelong best friends, Jo, voiced by H.E.R., and Raissa, voiced by Soberano, who find themselves stranded on the magical and mysterious island of Nakali. To find their way back home, the pair must navigate a world filled with mythical creatures where the ultimate cost of escape might be the loss of their most cherished memories together.
During a special launch event this week, the lead stars shared emotional reflections on the project. H.E.R. expressed her excitement about voicing a character that mirrors her own heritage, noting that the film incorporates many of the folklore stories she grew up hearing from her Filipino mother. She described the opportunity to share a piece of her childhood with a global audience as an incredibly rewarding experience.
Liza Soberano also spoke about the cultural impact of the film, particularly a scene in the trailer featuring a magical portal inspired by the Philippine sun. She admitted to being moved to tears by the imagery, highlighting how important it is for children in the Philippines to see their culture and country represented with such beauty and scale on the big screen. The film's focus on the sun as a central symbol resonates deeply with the national identity of the Philippines, making it a landmark moment for cultural representation in mainstream animation. As the September release date approaches, Forgotten Island is poised to become a significant cultural event for audiences worldwide.
