DreamWorks Animation announces a captivating voice cast for its new film ‘Forgotten Island,’ celebrating Filipino folklore.
DreamWorks Animation has unveiled a talented voice cast for its upcoming animated feature ‘Forgotten Island,’ set to release on September 25, 2026. The movie promises to celebrate Filipino folklore, exploring themes of friendship and heritage. The announcement, covered by The Hollywood Reporter on September 20, 2026, highlights a significant evolution in animated storytelling, particularly focusing on cultural representation in cinema.
The film boasts a stellar lineup, including Grammy-winning artist H.E.R., portraying the character Jo in both her younger and older forms. Other prominent cast members include Dave Franco, Liza Soberano, Jenny Slate, Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, and Jo Koy. Each actor brings a unique flair to this imaginative tale that deeply integrates elements of Filipino culture, ensuring an engaging experience for viewers.
‘Forgotten Island’ unfolds a touching story about two schoolgirls in the Philippines during the 1990s. Jo, a spirited troublemaker fond of storytelling, and the serious-minded Raissa, who dreams of becoming a scientist, face numerous challenges as they navigate their adolescence. Their journey takes a magical turn when they stumble upon a portal that transports them to the mythical island of Nakali. This enchanting adventure forces them to confront the potential cost of returning home, presenting them with the opportunity to sacrifice their cherished memories.
The film is helmed by directors Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, known for their previous work on ‘Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.’ Their adept storytelling balances humor with emotional depth, promising a visually stunning experience that draws on diverse influences, including anime and traditional storytelling. This project emphasizes the importance of original narratives that highlight underrepresented cultures in animation.
The release of ‘Forgotten Island’ underscores a growing movement in the animation industry to embrace storytelling that reflects diverse cultural narratives. By centering Filipino folklore within its storyline, the film not only entertains but also educates audiences about the rich traditions and values of the Philippines.
Moreover, the film navigates complex themes surrounding friendship, identity, and personal growth. As Jo and Raissa embark on their quest filled with magical creatures, they must confront internal and external challenges that test their bond. The narrative serves as a reminder of lifelong friendship and the impact of shared childhood experiences.
As the film approaches its release date, there is a palpable excitement among audiences eager to see how humor, folklore, and emotional storytelling intertwine in ‘Forgotten Island.’ The anticipation for this groundbreaking film highlights a wider trend towards inclusivity and representation in animated storytelling, which resonates with audiences of all ages.
For more entertainment updates, check out the latest on Upcoming TV Premieres and Finales for September 20-26, 2026 and The Recap of 'Big Night': Stanley Tucci and Tony Shalhoub's 1996 Film.
Entertainment news
EpisodeBreakdown may use automated tools to assist research, drafting, and formatting. Published pages are governed by our editorial and corrections policies, and source links are shown when they are available in the article record.
Discovery source: The Hollywood Reporter. The source identifies where the topic was discovered; EpisodeBreakdown is responsible for the commentary published on this page.
Reader response
Reactions and poll results are based on real reader responses. No account is required.
