DreamWorks Animation’s “Forgotten Island” is bringing together some of the biggest Filipino and Filipino-heritage names in film and music for an animated adventure rooted in Philippine culture and folklore.
The movie stars Liza Soberano and Grammy-winning Filipino-American artist H.E.R. as Raissa and Jo, best friends whose final night together takes an unexpected turn when they are transported to the mysterious island of Nakali.
There, the pair encounter creatures inspired by Filipino folklore, including the Manananggal, voiced by Broadway star Lea Salonga.
The story centers on Raissa and Jo’s friendship as they try to find their way home while facing the possibility that their memories of each other could disappear.
The voice cast also includes Filipino actors Dolly de Leon and Manny Jacinto, as well as comedian Jo Koy. Dave Franco, Jenny Slate and Ronny Chieng are also part of the ensemble.
“Forgotten Island” is written and directed by Joel Crawford and Filipino-American filmmaker Januel Mercado.
Filipino talent also contributed behind the scenes, with Quezon City-based Snipple Animation Studios working on hand-drawn animation used in parts of the film.
The soundtrack carries an equally strong Filipino presence.
Soberano and H.E.R. collaborated on the bilingual song “BRB,” while BINI contributes “A Parallel World.”
SB19 is also part of the soundtrack with a rendition of Francis Magalona’s “Mga Kababayan.”
Sophia Laforteza of KATSEYE, who is Filipino, performs a version of INXS’ “Never Tear Us Apart.”
With Filipino performers, musicians and animators involved across different parts of the production, “Forgotten Island” combines a Hollywood animated adventure with elements that will be familiar to Philippine audiences.
The film is scheduled to open in Philippine cinemas on September 23.