DreamWorks Animation brings Filipino mythology to the global stage on September 25, 2026, with Forgotten Island
. Co-directed by Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, the original animated fantasy adventure stars H.E.R. and Liza Soberano as best friends transported through a portal to the mystical world of Nakali.
When high school graduation arrives for inseparable best friends Jo and Raissa, the certainty of their shared routine begins to fracture. Voiced by Oscar-winning artist H.E.R. and actress Liza Soberano, the two teenagers find themselves celebrating their final night together before impending life changes force them down separate paths. That evening takes a surreal turn when a mysterious portal transports them to the fantastical island of Nakali, a realm steeped in the stories and folklore of the Philippines.
The film explores an emotional core that balances supernatural adventure with the universal anxiety of growing apart from someone who shaped your formative years. Yet the island presents a high-stakes dilemma: the longer the friends remain in Nakali, the more their memories begin to fade. Escaping home requires them to risk losing the history of their entire friendship, turning a routine fantasy quest into an urgent battle to remember who they are and where they came from.
Drawing From Real Families and Cultural Roots
For co-directors Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, the project grew out of personal connections. With Forgotten Island
, the creative team shifted focus toward female friendships, drawing inspiration directly from the Filipina women in their own lives. Crawford’s wife is Filipina, while Mercado named the lead character Jo after his sister Joann.
That dedication to authenticity permeates the production. H.E.R. noted during interviews that her own upbringing influenced her connection to the project, recalling how her mother often used traditional folklore to keep her on her toes.
When I was a kid, that was the one that my mom would always tell. She’d be like, ‘The Manananggal is gonna get you!
H.E.R., singer and voice of Jo, via Philstar
An All-Star Ensemble of Filipino and International Talent
The island of Nakali is populated by a rich array of mythological figures, led by the most feared creature in the folklore: the Manananggal, a predatory supernatural being capable of splitting its body in two to hunt at night. To voice this formidable villain, the filmmakers secured Lea Salonga, who stepped into the role of Manang, the Dreaded Manananggal.
The supporting and main cast boasts a concentration of Filipino talent alongside established comedy and dramatic stars, including Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, comedian Jo Koy, Dave Franco, Jenny Slate, and Ronny Chieng. Music for the project features contributions from Filipino performers Bini and SB19, deepening the cultural footprint of the release.
This cultural milestone arrives during a period for Filipino representation in Hollywood. In September, Salonga became the first Filipina to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Speaking on the broader shift in the industry, Soberano emphasized the significance of the moment for performers and audiences alike.
“There has always been Filipinos in Hollywood, kind of paving the way for all of us. But it’s only now that there’s really been a spotlight shown on Filipinos and Filipino culture. So it’s really exciting to see other people embracing the culture and the amazing talent that comes with being Filipino.”
Liza Soberano, actress and voice of Raissa, via Philstar
Box Office Expectations and What Comes Next
As the film prepares for its domestic opening, industry analysts are watching how this original IP performs.
By blending high-end studio animation with generations-old domestic mythology, the production offers a template for how major international studios can elevate diverse cultural narratives. Whether strong word-of-mouth and critical acclaim can translate that cultural enthusiasm into long-term box office endurance will become clear in the coming weeks as families fill theaters.