The trailer for Forgotten Island, DreamWorks Animation’s latest fantastical movie, is officially out. And yes, we’re just as excited as you are.
We’re witnessing history in the making as Philippine culture and folklore reach global heights—with the help of an award-winning animation powerhouse, no less. Many Filipinos had already expressed their excitement when Forgotten Island first made headlines last year with its star-studded cast announcement. Now that we have our first look at the film, we can expect nothing less than an adventure of epic proportions that beams with Pinoy pride.
Photo: Universal Pictures, Liza Soberano
After decades of watching Filipino representation slowly gain prominence in live-action films and TV shows, it can now thrive on an original animated story that’s fully centered on our identities, experiences, and vibrant history. The brilliant Filipino and part-Filipino talents who poured their hearts into Forgotten Island make us all the more stoked to see it on the big screen.
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We can’t help but cheer for our kababayans who helped bring Forgotten Island to fruition. As the movie and its trailer continue to receive resounding support on social media, we’re sharing our own reasons why you shouldn’t miss out on this labor of love when it hits Philippine cinemas on September 23, 2026.
The Power of Friendship and Girlhood
A magical quest with two strong Filipinas taking the lead? Sign us up!
It always warms our hearts to watch young protagonists in animation blossom into the heroes and heroines they were born to be. Take it from Jo and Raissa, two long-time best friends who are about to embark on an adventure of a lifetime.
Forgotten Island follows the dynamic duo from their childhood in the ‘90s to their teenage years in the present. Raissa’s parents want her to finish her studies in the U.S., putting her unbreakable bond with Jo in jeopardy. But just when the bittersweet reality starts to sink in, a mysterious portal welcomes them to Nakali, an ancient island that can erase their memories if they don’t make it out in time.
With their irreplaceable friendship and core memories on the line, Jo and Raissa must work together to escape Nakali and return home before it’s too late.
We’re looking forward to watching inspiring portrayals of girlhood unfold throughout every chapter of Jo and Raissa’s lives. Though their journey as besties has taken an unexpected turn, we’re confident that there’s no challenge they can’t conquer—even at the risk of forgetting everything they’ve been through.
Dynamic Performances by a Notable Cast
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We can’t talk about Forgotten Island without celebrating its Filipino cast, who came together to bring their characters to life. In their first animated lead roles, Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter H.E.R. takes on the character of Jo, while Liza Soberano voices Raissa.
The movie also stars Lea Salonga as the Dreaded Manananggal, Nakali’s most feared creature, and Dave Franco as Raww, Jo and Raissa’s newfound were-dog friend. We can also expect must-watch performances by Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, and Jo Koy.
On March 26, 2026, Liza couldn’t contain her joy as she talked about her unforgettable time with her Forgotten Island friends.
“I have so much love for the whole team behind this project,” she wrote on Instagram. “I’m so honored and proud to be a part of such an amazing film that showcases Filipino culture and talent!”
An Unapologetic Showcase of Our Roots
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The trailer for Forgotten Island is a visual spectacle in every aspect. We expect nothing less from writers and directors Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, who also worked together on Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.
We’re totally mind-blown by how much Filipino culture Forgotten Island has championed in just a two-minute and 24-second trailer. There are bits and pieces of home everywhere you look, including:
- Jo and Raissa’s anik-anik friendship bracelets, filled with personal charms and memorabilia,
- Jo’s manananggal-inspired costume that she wore to school,
- An overhead view of traditional Filipino houses and bundles of electric wiring hanging above them,
- A run-down jeepney with a “Mabuhay” sign, where the two best friends hang out,
- The portal to Nakali, which resembles the eight-rayed sun of the Philippine flag, and
- Nakali’s mythical creatures (drawn from Philippine legends and folk tales), such as a glowing bird that looks a lot like the Sarimanok.
Forgotten Island puts all of these homegrown elements front and center, making representation matter now more than ever. It’s safe to say that this film will be one for the books, especially with its distinct storytelling and heartwarming characters that make every Filipino feel loved, accepted, and celebrated.
ALSO READ: This Filipino Comic Book Series Is Becoming an Animated Fantasy Film In 2026
What are your thoughts on Forgotten Island so far? Do you plan to watch the film in theaters? Let us know in the comments below!
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