In a significant development for animation enthusiasts, DreamWorks Animation has released the first trailer for its upcoming film, ‘Forgotten Island’, scheduled to hit theaters on September 25, 2026. The film is set against the backdrop of the Philippines during the 1990s and features a diverse voice cast including H.E.R. and Liza Soberano.
The trailer reveals that the main characters, Jo and Raissa, voiced by H.E.R. and Soberano respectively, navigate the complexities of friendship and change as Jo plans to remain in the Philippines while Raissa prepares to move to the United States for college. Their journey takes a fantastical turn when they discover a portal that transports them to the mythical island of Nakali.
Nakali is depicted as a vibrant world filled with creatures from Filipino folklore, promising to introduce audiences to a rich tapestry of cultural mythology. The film is directed and written by Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, with production led by Mark Swift, known for his work on ‘Puss in Boots: The Last Wish’.
The emotional core of ‘Forgotten Island’ revolves around the theme of memory, as highlighted in the trailer. A character voiced by Jenny Slate ominously states, ‘The Forgotten Island is a dangerous place.’ This sentiment is echoed with the warning, ‘The longer you’re here, the more memories you’ll forget.’
The film’s soundtrack features the iconic song ‘Don’t You (Forget About Me)’ by Simple Minds, adding an additional layer of nostalgia and emotional resonance.
As the only original animated film officially announced by DreamWorks Animation to date, ‘Forgotten Island’ is generating considerable excitement. The combination of a compelling narrative, cultural representation, and a talented voice cast positions it as a noteworthy entry in the animation landscape.
Initial reactions to the trailer have been positive, with fans expressing eagerness to see how the film will portray Filipino culture and folklore. As anticipation builds, the film’s unique premise and artistic direction are expected to resonate with a global audience.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding additional plot elements and character arcs, but the initial glimpse into ‘Forgotten Island’ suggests a thoughtful exploration of friendship, memory, and cultural heritage.
