Tag: Forgotten Island

‘Forgotten Island’ Makes History With P97.2 Million Opening Weekend in the Philippines

Filipino moviegoers have found their way to Forgotten Island.

DreamWorks Animation’s Filipino-inspired adventure debuted at No. 1 at the Philippine box office, earning P97,236,533 during its opening weekend. The impressive haul marks Universal Pictures’ biggest opening weekend in the country for 2026 and the biggest opening for a non-franchise animated film in the Philippines.

For a story rooted in friendship, Filipino culture, and the creatures many Filipinos grew up hearing about, the milestone makes its arrival on the big screen even sweeter.

And there is plenty of Pinoy talent helping bring the island of Nakali to life.

Filipino Stories Take Center Stage

Forgotten Island follows lifelong best friends Raissa and Jo, voiced by Liza Soberano and H.E.R., as they reach a turning point in their friendship.

Having been inseparable since grade school, the two are preparing to head down different paths after high school graduation. But before they can say goodbye to this chapter of their lives, one final night together takes an unexpected turn.

They stumble upon a mysterious portal and are transported to Nakali, a fantastical island filled with magical beings and creatures inspired by the stories they heard growing up in Filipino families.

Some of the island’s inhabitants are friendly. Others definitely are not.

Among the dangers waiting for them is the fearsome Dreaded Manananggal, voiced by Tony Award-winning Filipino icon Lea Salonga.

As if being stranded on a mysterious island were not enough, Raissa and Jo soon discover that their memories are disappearing.

Suddenly, their adventure becomes something much more personal.

If they cannot find their way home, they risk losing the memories of the friendship that has defined much of their lives. Worse, escaping Nakali may come with a price neither of them is ready to pay.

A Pinoy-Powered Cast and Soundtrack

Adding to the film’s distinctly Filipino spirit is a stacked voice cast featuring Filipino and Filipino-American stars.

Alongside Soberano, H.E.R., and Salonga are Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, and Jo Koy.

The larger ensemble includes Dave Franco as the well-meaning but hapless weredog Raww, Emmy nominee Jenny Slate, and Emmy winner Ronny Chieng.

The Filipino representation does not stop with the cast.

Homegrown music acts BINI and SB19 are also among the artists featured on the film’s soundtrack, adding another Pinoy connection to the DreamWorks Animation original.

Critics and Audiences Are Feeling the Magic

The movie’s strong Philippine debut arrives alongside an enthusiastic response from moviegoers and critics.

Forgotten Island received a 95% Certified Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, while its audience score stands at 97%.

Behind the film is the creative team responsible for one of DreamWorks Animation’s acclaimed recent adventures.

Forgotten Island is written and directed by Academy Award nominee Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado and produced by Academy Award nominee Mark Swift, the filmmaking team behind Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.

DreamWorks Animation is, of course, no stranger to stories about unforgettable friendships. The studio has given audiences the unlikely partnership of Shrek and Donkey in Shrek, the bond between Hiccup and Toothless in How to Train Your Dragon, and the touching relationship at the center of The Wild Robot.

This time, the friendship worth fighting for belongs to two young women standing at the uncertain point between growing up together and growing apart.

Watch the trailer here:

Welcome to Nakali

Fantasy may send Raissa and Jo into another world, but there is something wonderfully familiar at the heart of Forgotten Island.

It is about reaching that moment when life begins pulling two friends in different directions. It is about the memories that turn a friendship into something irreplaceable. And, wrapped around that emotional story, it is a colorful adventure filled with creatures inspired by Filipino mythology.

Now, with P97.2 million at the Philippine box office during its opening weekend, audiences have given the film another milestone to celebrate.

So, ready to take a trip to Nakali?

Forgotten Island is now showing in Philippine cinemas.

For more updates, follow Universal Pictures PH on Facebook, UniversalPicturesPH on Instagram, and UniversalPicsPH on TikTok.

DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island is distributed by Universal Pictures.

September 28, 2026
NEW MOVIES THIS WEEK: Avengers: Endgame Encore, Forgotten Island, Heart of the Beast, and More!

Ready for your weekly big screen fix? This week, theaters are serving up an exciting lineup that swings from superhero blockbusters and magical animated journeys to wilderness survival thrillers and palace romances. Whether you are looking for new Marvel footage in Avengers: Endgame Encore, local mythical adventures in Forgotten Island, rugged outdoor survival in Heart of the Beast, or sweet ancient court drama in Plump Blossom, this week’s lineup offers a fantastic mix for every moviegoer.

Here are the new movies opening in cinemas this week to add to your cinema plans:

Avengers: Endgame Encore

2026 • PG • 3h 5m
ACTION, ADVENTURE, SCIENCE FICTION
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Marvel Studios brings the massive crossover event back to theaters for a special theatrical engagement. Set five years after Thanos wiped out half of all life, the remaining heroes pull off a risky time-travel mission to restore the universe. This special re-release features exclusive extra footage and an exciting new teaser connecting directly to the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday, making it a must-watch for dedicated MCU fans.

Forgotten Island

2026 • PG • 1h 48m
ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, COMEDY, FAMILY, FANTASY
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Liza Soberano, H.E.R., and Dave Franco star in this vibrant animated feature celebrating Filipino folklore. During a farewell celebration, best friends Jo and Raissa step through a hidden portal onto Nakali, a realm filled with legendary creatures. To return home, they must defeat the fearsome Manananggal, voiced by Broadway legend Lea Salonga. However, escaping requires sacrificing their shared memories, pushing the pair into a race to save their home without forgetting each other.

(from left) Bungi (Manny Jacinto), Raww (Dave Franco), Raissa (Liza Soberano), Jo (H.E.R.) and Prince Mermahn (Kevin McCann) in DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island, directed by Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado.

Heart of the Beast

2026 • R-13 • 1h 41m
ADVENTURE, THRILLER
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Brad Pitt and J.K. Simmons lead this intense survival thriller set against a punishing wilderness. After a sudden plane crash leaves Special Forces officer James Belmont stranded in the frozen Alaskan backcountry, he must rely on his tactical training and his loyal combat dog, Odin. Together, the pair battle extreme weather and dangerous predators in a unrelenting fight to reach civilization.

Plump Blossom

2026 • G • 1h 25m
ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, MUSIC
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This charming animated feature blends culinary arts, hidden romance, and ancient royal traditions. Princess Ruo Hua dreams of a life beyond rigid court rules, secretly sneaking into the palace kitchens every night to master traditional cooking techniques. Her quiet life changes dramatically when she shelters a wounded general hiding within the complex. Through late-night meals and shared secrets, a powerful bond develops between the gentle princess and the brave warrior.

Puregold CinePanalo Brings Homegrown Stories to the Big Screen

There’s another reason to make a cinema trip this week, especially if you want to catch more local stories.

Image Source: Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival 2026 FB Page

The Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival runs from September 23 to October 4 at Gateway Cineplex 18, TriNoma, Fairview Terraces, Ayala Malls Feliz, Ayala Malls Circuit, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, and Market! Market!

The festival is making homegrown Pinoy cinema more accessible, with regular tickets priced at only P250.

That makes this a good time to add a local film or two to your movie plans while discovering stories from Filipino filmmakers and creators.

What’s On Your Movie List This Week?

From Marvel superheroes and magical creatures to an Alaskan survival story and an animated royal adventure, this week’s new releases cover quite a range. Whatever you’re in the mood for, there’s a new movie ready for your next cinema run. Grab your favorite snacks, round up your barkadas, and secure your tickets for your next big-screen fix.

Stay tuned for next week’s fresh batch of releases and updates. Keep ClickTheCity bookmarked for the latest showtimes, your next movie is a click away!

September 23, 2026
MOVIE REVIEW: A Friendship That Feels Filipino: A Review of Forgotten Island

There are some animated features nowadays that seem tailor-made for the idea that younger audiences have shorter attention spans, so the film is directed loud and frenetic. Something is always happening, a gag or an action sequence, anything to grab the focus of an audience that might get bored if things slow down even a little bit. Maybe it’s my age, but I find it exhausting. Forgotten Island, the new animated feature from DreamWorks Animation directed and written by Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, fits that exact mold. Centered around two teenage Filipina girls who find a portal to a mystical island inhabited by engkantos, all that energy and fast-paced storytelling can sometimes overshadow the film’s biggest asset: the friendship story of the two leads.

Jo (voiced by H.E.R.) and Raissa (voiced by Liza Soberano) live in an island province in the Philippines during the ’90s. They become instant best friends over a shared love of Philippine lower mythology, especially the manananggal.

(from left) Little Jo (Kailey Crawford), Lola (Dolly De Leon) and Little Raissa (Kayla Teruel) in DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island, directed by Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado.

They grow up inseparable, finding themselves a bit like outcasts in the typical Filipino world they have known all their lives. But as graduation approaches, Raissa gets an offer to study abroad, putting their friendship to the ultimate test. When they discover a portal to bring them to Nakali, the mythical island of the engkantos, they jump in for one last adventure.

(from center left) Jo (H.E.R.) and Raissa (Liza Soberano) in DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island, directed by Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado.

There, they encounter all kinds of supernatural creatures and find themselves running from a manananggal whose wings they accidentally stole during a night of drinking. Through all the chaos, will Jo and Raissa be able to save their friendship when they get back home… and if they can even get back at all?

Manang (Lea Salonga) in DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island, directed by Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado.

The best parts of the film really revolve around the relationship between Jo and Raissa. The two characters could not be any more opposite. Jo is literally incendiary, with a love for firecrackers and explosives, and she has a strong tendency to act spontaneously and recklessly. Raissa, on the other hand, is more cautious and book- smart, with little doubt that she will make her dreams come true with an American education.

Forgotten Island | Photo Credit: Universal Pictures

Yet there is something in the way they are written that makes you truly believe these two girls are best of friends. A wonderful first-act setup cements that friendship, and H.E.R. and Soberano do an excellent job bringing these two characters to life with their voice acting.

Forgotten Island | Photo Credit: Universal Pictures

We see how their friendship gets tested as Nakali becomes an unexpected place for them to finally tell each other things they have kept hidden, whether out of fear of hurting each other or looking and acting foolish. It is the core of a great coming-of-age story, and against the backdrop of a fantastical land, the potential is endless.

Forgotten Island | Photo Credit: Universal Pictures

I am not personally a fan of the film’s fast-paced narrative pacing, but that comes down to a matter of taste. Crawford and Mercado do a great job of keeping things moving while directing their animation team through some truly gorgeous set pieces and artistic designs. The manananggal, voiced by Lea Salonga no less, is rendered in a way that is so different and delightfully twisted that it feels refreshing and new. As a viewer and someone who has deeply studied the lore of this specific aswang, seeing such a unique take was genuinely exciting.

Forgotten Island | Photo Credit: Universal Pictures

What holds me back is how westernized a lot of the other lore has become, for what maybe accessibility for a western audience or for not scaring little children. The kapres do not smoke, the duendes and the tiyanak are sanitized into cute mascots, and they even introdued a were-dog named Raww (voiced by Dave Franco), a creature I am not familiar with in all my studies of Philippine lower mythology. There are sigbins, sure, but they do not shape-shift into human.

Forgotten Island | Photo Credit: Universal Pictures

For a film set in the Philippines in the 1990s, much of the Filipino culture feels more like an aesthetic accessory than something that really pushes the story forward. The culture elements can be interchangeable with any other setting, and core story would still stand. There is no question that the movie is exceptionally well-made, but I am wary of turning our heritage into a surface-level commodity rather than treating it as something integral to the narrative’s themes.

(from left) Bungi (Manny Jacinto), Raww (Dave Franco), Raissa (Liza Soberano), Jo (H.E.R.) and Prince Mermahn (Kevin McCann) in DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island, directed by Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado.

That is why the story of the two protagonists is the one that truly grounds this film, because that’s truly cultural with us: losing a friend or even a family member due to distance. Whether it is moving from the province to Manila or migrating from the Philippines to another country for education or work, this separation is a genuine concern for many relationships here. That is the part of the culture that feels so powerfully Filipino in this story, whereas everything else could easily be substituted.

(from left) Little Jo (Kailey Crawford) and Little Raissa (Kayla Teruel) in DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island, directed by Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado.

Maybe I am just being territorial or possessive. I hope the film does well, but I have my serious reservations for the Filipino-American point-of-view for a story set entirely in the country. The two leads and all the engkantos speak with a westernized English accent, while every other local characters speaks English with a thick Filipino accent. What is with that othering? It is the exact question that kept popping into my head as I watched this work unfold.

My Rating: 4 Stars

Ready to watch Liza Soberano and H.E.R. trigger total mythical chaos while Lea Salonga unleashes her dark side? Round up your best friends, check showtimes, and get your tickets to Forgotten Island today, just try not to lose your wings on the way in!

September 23, 2026
DreamWorks’ “Forgotten Island” Announces Nationwide Sneak Screenings on September 19 and 20

Filipino moviegoers are getting an early ticket to Nakali.

Ahead of its official Philippine release, DreamWorks Animation’s “Forgotten Island” will hold nationwide sneak screenings on September 19 and 20, giving audiences a first look at the fantasy adventure before it opens in cinemas on September 23.

Making the occasion even more special, the Philippines will be the first country to release the film theatrically.

Inspired by Filipino culture, mythology, music, and family traditions, “Forgotten Island” brings together a remarkable lineup of Filipino and Filipino-American talent both in front of the microphone and on its soundtrack.

Filipino Talent Takes Center Stage

Leading the voice cast are Liza Soberano and Grammy and Academy Award winner H.E.R., who play lifelong best friends Raissa and Jo.

They are joined by a powerhouse supporting cast that includes Manny Jacinto, Lea Salonga, Dolly de Leon, and Jo Koy, along with Jenny Slate, Dave Franco, and Ronny Chieng.

The Filipino representation continues through the film’s music.

Its soundtrack features artists including SB19, BINI, KATSEYE’s Sophia Laforteza, Ruby Ibarra, and Carl Angelo, while cast members Lea Salonga, H.E.R., and Liza Soberano also contribute songs to the film.

It is a lineup that gives “Forgotten Island” a distinctly Filipino heartbeat, pairing a big-screen DreamWorks adventure with voices and sounds familiar to audiences at home.

Watch the trailer here:

A Friendship Put to the Ultimate Test

At the center of “Forgotten Island” is the bond between Jo and Raissa.

Best friends since grade school, the two are about to leave high school behind and begin separate chapters in their lives. Before going their different ways, they spend one final night together.

Then everything changes.

Jo and Raissa stumble upon a mysterious portal that transports them to Nakali, a fantastical island filled with creatures drawn from the stories they grew up hearing from their Filipino families.

Some of those creatures are helpful. Others are frightening. And waiting somewhere on the island is a danger far bigger than either of them expected.

As they search for a way home, Jo and Raissa discover the devastating cost of escaping Nakali: the memories of their friendship are slowly disappearing.

The longer they remain on the island, the more they risk forgetting each other completely.

Welcome to Nakali

Helping Jo and Raissa through their strange new surroundings is Raww, a well-meaning but hapless weredog voiced by Dave Franco, along with a small but fearless group of companions.

But Nakali is also home to one of its most terrifying figures, The Dreaded Manananggal, voiced by Tony Award winner Lea Salonga.

With their memories fading and time running out, Jo and Raissa must find a way to leave the island while holding on to the friendship that brought them this far.

It is a colorful fantasy adventure, but beneath the magical creatures and larger-than-life world is something deeply relatable: the fear that comes with growing apart from someone who has been part of your life for years.

From the Team Behind “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish”

“Forgotten Island” comes from DreamWorks Animation, the studio behind films such as “How to Train Your Dragon,” “Shrek,” and “The Wild Robot.”

The original animated film is written and directed by Academy Award nominee Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, with Academy Award nominee Mark Swift producing.

Crawford, Mercado, and Swift previously worked together on the acclaimed animated adventure “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.”

Joining H.E.R. and Soberano in the ensemble are Emmy nominee Jenny Slate, “The Good Place” and “Top Gun: Maverick” star Manny Jacinto, BAFTA nominee Dolly de Leon, global comedian Jo Koy, and Emmy winner Ronny Chieng.

Together, they bring to life a story about friendship, memory, growing up, and the difficult moment when two people who have always been side by side suddenly face different futures.

See “Forgotten Island” Before Everyone Else

For Filipino audiences eager to experience Nakali, the wait is almost over.

Catch the nationwide sneak screenings of “Forgotten Island” on September 19 and 20, ahead of its official Philippine cinema release on September 23.

With Filipino mythology woven into its fantasy world, a star-studded Filipino cast, and music from some of today’s biggest homegrown talents, “Forgotten Island” is shaping up to be a uniquely familiar DreamWorks adventure with plenty of heart.

After all, some friendships are worth remembering.

And some are worth fighting for.

DreamWorks Animation’s “Forgotten Island” is distributed by Universal Pictures.

For the latest updates, follow Universal Pictures PH on Facebook, @UniversalPicturesPH on Instagram, and @UniversalPicsPH on TikTok.

September 16, 2026
Tickets Now on Sale for DreamWorks Animation’s “Forgotten Island” Ahead of September 23 PH Release

Following a heartfelt Philippine homecoming with Liza Soberano, H.E.R. and the filmmakers, Filipino moviegoers can now secure their seats for DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island.

Opening in Philippine cinemas on September 23, the original animated adventure brings Filipino folklore, mythology, friendship and family to the big screen through a story deeply inspired by Filipino culture.

A Homecoming Filled With Filipino Pride

The recent Manila visit of stars Liza Soberano and H.E.R., along with writer-directors Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado and producer Mark Swift, gave Filipino fans an early look at the heart behind Forgotten Island.

During their Philippine homecoming, Soberano and H.E.R. spoke about their personal connections to Filipino culture. Meanwhile, Crawford, Mercado and Swift shared how Filipino influences shaped the film, from its mythical creatures and visual details to familiar values such as family, friendship and bayanihan.

For Crawford and Mercado, creating the story also grew naturally from their longtime friendship.

We just organically found that we have the same sensibilities, Crawford says. We enjoy making each other laugh. We like the same movies. There is so much overlap in the way we think that we developed this shorthand, almost like an unspoken agreement. Writing together feels seamless, and that opens the door to special moments in the script.

The pair previously worked together on projects including Puss in Boots: The Last Wish and The Croods: A New Age.

A Love Letter to Filipino Culture and Family

With Mercado being Filipino American and Crawford married to a Filipina, the Philippines holds a personal place in both filmmakers’ lives.

We both have personal connections to the Philippines, so this movie is a love letter to our families and a culture that shaped our values,” Mercado says. “We thought a lot about the people who shape our lives, the loved ones who influence who we become and the way we move through the world.

Crawford adds: Not only did we set out to write what we know, but rather who we know.

That personal connection helped shape a colorful fantasy world rooted in Filipino traditions while telling a story designed to resonate with audiences everywhere.

Watch the latest trailer here:

Welcome to the Mysterious Island of Nakali

In Forgotten Island, high school graduates Jo, voiced by H.E.R., and Raissa, voiced by Liza Soberano, embark on one last celebration before life takes them in different directions.

But the night takes an unexpected turn when a magical portal transports them to Nakali, a mythical island inspired by stories passed down through their families.

There, they encounter creatures both fierce and friendly. As memories of their friendship begin to disappear, Jo and Raissa must race to find a way out of Nakali before they lose something even more precious.

Creating an Original Adventure From Scratch

Producer Mark Swift was immediately drawn to the opportunity to help build an entirely original DreamWorks Animation story.

Every movie I have done up until now has either been a sequel or based on a book,” Swift says. “To work on an original film is exciting because you are truly starting from scratch. There are no existing designs for the characters, no established personalities. Every idea is a new idea, and each one can take you down a different path.

He also credits Crawford and Mercado’s friendship as one of the creative strengths behind the movie.

What is great about Joel and Januel’s partnership is that it came out of friendship,” Swift says. “They completely trust each other and know what each brings to the table, so being on that journey with them has been fantastic.

Finding Inspiration Across the Philippines

To prepare for Forgotten Island, the filmmaking team traveled around the Philippines for research and inspiration.

One memorable moment came when Mercado’s family welcomed the team with a large celebration. That gathering later became an inspiration for Raissa’s going-away party in the movie.

The Philippines is beautiful, Crawford says. The culture was a huge part of what we wanted to celebrate in this movie. It is incredibly warm and welcoming, the kind of place where, if you are there, you are family.

He continues, Everyone is singing, dancing, eating and drinking together. And the myths still feel very alive there. Everyone we met had a story about seeing Manananggal.

Those experiences helped the team bring a sense of warmth, wonder and authenticity to the film’s world.

A Story About Memories Worth Holding On To

Beyond the magical creatures and mythical landscapes, Forgotten Island centers on something universal: the memories people create with those they love.

As specific as our story and our experience may be, anyone can relate to it,” Mercado says. “We all have friends, family and people we are connected to. We are all capable of making beautiful memories.

At the heart of this story is friendship, the growing pains of life, the fear of being forgotten and the fragile nature of memory. Memories are valuable because they do not last forever, and that is what makes them so important.

Don’t miss the magical adventure of Forgotten Island, arriving in Philippine cinemas on September 23. Tickets are now on sale.

For the latest news and updates, follow Universal Pictures Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

September 2, 2026
Liza Soberano and H.E.R. Surprise ‘Save the Children’ Kids at “Forgotten Island” Screening

Some adventures become even more memorable when they are shared with friends.

That spirit of friendship and imagination came alive on August 25 as Save the Children beneficiaries became among the first audiences to watch DreamWorks Animation’s new feature film, “Forgotten Island,” during a special screening at SM Aura in Taguig.

Presented courtesy of DreamWorks Animation and Universal Pictures, the event welcomed children supported by Save the Children, an organization that has spent more than four decades helping Filipino children learn, thrive, and work toward brighter futures.

Liza Soberano and H.E.R. Make a Surprise Appearance

The screening became even more special when Liza Soberano and Grammy and Academy Award winner H.E.R.surprised the young moviegoers with an unexpected appearance.

Soberano and H.E.R., who lend their voices to best friends Raissa and Jo in the film, spent time with the children and shared in the excitement surrounding the movie.

Their visit transformed the screening into a memorable celebration of friendship, imagination, and the meaningful connections that stay with us as we grow.

Joining them were “Forgotten Island” directors Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, whose creative vision helped shape the film’s colorful world inspired by Filipino mythology, culture, and storytelling.

A Meaningful Moment for Liza Soberano

The occasion carried added significance for Soberano, who has long supported the work of Save the Children as an ambassador and advocate for children.

H.E.R. has also supported initiatives aimed at empowering and uplifting marginalized communities.

Soberano, H.E.R., Crawford, and Mercado are in Manila as part of the “Tayo Na, Philippines!” “Forgotten Island” Tour, a celebration of the Filipino culture, stories, and spirit at the heart of the animated film.

“Forgotten Island” Takes Audiences to the Magical World of Nakali

Arriving in Philippine cinemas on September 23, “Forgotten Island” follows longtime best friends Jo, voiced by H.E.R., and Raissa, voiced by Soberano.

The two have been inseparable since grade school, but after graduating from high school, they are preparing to take different paths in life.

On what is supposed to be one last night together before their lives begin to change, Jo and Raissa discover a mysterious portal that transports them to Nakali, a fantastical island filled with magical beings and mythological creatures inspired by stories they heard growing up in their Filipino families.

Suddenly, childhood legends are no longer just stories.

Some of the creatures they encounter become unlikely allies, while others pose dangerous challenges.

Helping the best friends on their journey is Raww, a lovable but hapless weredog voiced by Dave Franco, along with a small but determined group of companions.

Waiting for them, however, is their biggest threat yet: The Dreaded Manananggal, voiced by Tony Award-winning Filipino icon Lea Salonga.

Friendship Comes With an Unexpected Price

Jo and Raissa soon discover that escaping Nakali will not be easy.

Their journey home comes with a devastating condition. To leave the island, they may have to sacrifice every memory of the friendship they have shared through the years.

With time running out, the pair must find another way home before the memories that connect them begin to disappear forever.

The emotional adventure puts friendship at the center of a story filled with humor, fantasy, danger, and Filipino cultural influences.

A Stellar Voice Cast Brings the Adventure to Life

Adding even more star power to the animated feature is an impressive voice cast that includes Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, Jenny Slate, and Ronny Chieng.

Together, the cast brings to life a world where familiar stories and mythical creatures become part of an unforgettable coming-of-age adventure.

At its core, “Forgotten Island” celebrates the stories passed down through families and generations. It also explores the friendships, memories, people, and places that help shape who we become.

Through the magical world of Nakali, audiences are invited to rediscover the wonder of childhood while experiencing a vibrant story rooted in Filipino mythology and culture.

An Unforgettable Adventure for Save the Children Beneficiaries

For the Save the Children beneficiaries who attended the special screening, the journey to Nakali became more than an early look at an animated movie.

It became a chance to imagine, discover, laugh, and experience an adventure together.

With Soberano, H.E.R., Crawford, and Mercado joining the celebration, the young guests also had the rare opportunity to meet some of the stars and filmmakers responsible for bringing the magical world of “Forgotten Island” to the screen.

Watch the official trailer:

“Forgotten Island” opens in Philippine cinemas on September 23.

For more news and updates, follow Universal Pictures PH on Facebook, @universalpicturesph on Instagram, and @universalpicsph on TikTok.

August 25, 2026
Liza Soberano, H.E.R. and “Forgotten Island” Filmmakers Set for Manila Homecoming

The cast and filmmakers of DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island are saying, “Tayo Na, Philippines!”

Lead voice cast members Liza Soberano and H.E.R., directors Januel Mercado and Joel Crawford, and producer Mark Swift are heading to the Philippines on August 25 for a special celebration of Forgotten Island and the Filipino culture that helped inspire its world.

Making the occasion even more special, the Philippines will be the first international destination to welcome the cast and filmmakers as they begin their global journey for the film.

Forgotten Island Comes Home to the Philippines

During their visit, the stars and creative team will take part in special events and screenings, giving local audiences a rare opportunity to experience Forgotten Island alongside the people who helped bring it to life.

More than a promotional stop, however, “Tayo Na, Philippines!” carries a personal meaning for several members of the cast and filmmaking team.

Liza Soberano and H.E.R. return to celebrate the movie with Filipino fans, while Filipino American director Januel Mercado joins director Joel Crawford, whose wife and family are Filipino.

Producer Mark Swift also developed a close connection to the country while working on the film. During production, Swift made several trips to the Philippines, immersing himself in its culture as the filmmakers shaped the movie’s Filipino-inspired setting and story.

With those personal ties at its heart, the Manila celebration promises to be a memorable homecoming.

Meet the Cast and Filmmakers at SM Mall of Asia

Fans can be part of the excitement when the cast and filmmakers appear at the “Tayo Na, Philippines!” Forgotten Island event at the SM Mall of Asia Main Atrium on August 25 at 7 PM.

Expect an exciting evening celebrating the movie, its creative team, and the Filipino influences woven into its colorful world.

Before the event, fans can get a first look at the adventure by watching the official Forgotten Island trailer:

For more information about the Manila event, visit the Universal Pictures Philippines Facebook page.

Forgotten Island Arrives in Philippine Cinemas This September

Ready for an unforgettable trip?

DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island arrives in Philippine cinemas on September 23.

For the latest news, videos, and updates, follow Universal Pictures PH on Facebook, UniversalPicturesPH on Instagram, and UniversalPicsPH on TikTok.

DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island is distributed by Universal Pictures.

August 19, 2026
BINI Joins DreamWorks Animation’s “Forgotten Island” OST with New Song “A Parallel World”

BINI Brings P-pop Power to a Proudly Filipino Animated Adventure

BINI is adding their signature P-pop sparkle to DreamWorks Animation’s “Forgotten Island.” The nation’s girl group has joined the film’s original soundtrack with their upcoming track “A Parallel World,” marking another exciting moment for Filipino music on the global entertainment stage.

Blooms were treated to a wonderful surprise at the start of BINI’s Signals World Tour, where the group performed a sneak peek of the song for the first time. Complete with special choreography, the performance gave fans an early taste of the vibrant sound and emotion that BINI is bringing to the film.

Fans can watch BINI’s performance of “A Parallel World” on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

A Soundtrack Filled with Filipino Talent

The soundtrack of “Forgotten Island” brings together an impressive lineup of Filipino and Filipino-American artists. Alongside BINI, the film features SB19 with a cover of Francis Magalona’s “Mga Kababayan,” as well as Ruby Ibarra and Carl Angelo with “Salbahe Ako.”

The star-studded roster also includes H.E.R., KATSEYE’s Sophia Laforteza, and Lea Salonga, making the soundtrack a heartfelt celebration of Filipino artistry, heritage, and sound.

With each artist bringing something unique to the mix, the music of “Forgotten Island” is set to deepen the film’s emotional story while proudly spotlighting Filipino culture.

A Magical Story of Friendship, Memory, and Growing Up

At the center of “Forgotten Island” is an emotional story about lifelong best friends Jo and Raissa, who find themselves on one last extraordinary adventure before life pulls them in different directions.

After discovering a mysterious portal, the two are transported to Nakali, a mythical island filled with magical beings inspired by Filipino folklore. Some are friendly, some are fearsome, and some may change the way Jo and Raissa see their friendship forever.

As they search for a way home, the best friends uncover a heartbreaking truth: returning to the real world may cost them the memories of their entire friendship. Suddenly, their journey becomes a race against time as they fight to hold on to the bond that shaped their lives.

A DreamWorks Film with a Stellar Voice Cast

DreamWorks Animation, the studio behind beloved stories of friendship in “How to Train Your Dragon,” “Shrek,” and “The Wild Robot,” brings another dazzling bond to the big screen with “Forgotten Island.”

The film stars Grammy and Academy Award-winning artist H.E.R. and international star Liza Soberano as Jo and Raissa. Joining them in the all-star voice cast are Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, Jenny Slate, Dave Franco, Ronny Chieng, and Tony-winning icon Lea Salonga as the dreaded Manananggal.

Written and directed by Academy Award nominee Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, and produced by Academy Award nominee Mark Swift, the film comes from the creative team behind “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.”

“Forgotten Island” Opens in PH Cinemas September 23

Fantastical, emotional, and proudly rooted in Filipino culture, “Forgotten Island” invites audiences to rediscover the magic of friendship and the stories passed down through generations.

Catch DreamWorks Animation’s “Forgotten Island” in Philippine cinemas starting September 23.

DreamWorks Animation’s “Forgotten Island” is distributed by Universal Pictures PH.

June 22, 2026
H.E.R. and Liza Soberano Star in DreamWorks’ Filipino Culture Inspired Film “Forgotten Island”

A Friendship Tested by Fate

Set against a backdrop of change and uncertainty, Forgotten Island introduces audiences to Jo and Raissa—best friends since childhood who now stand at the edge of new beginnings. Voiced by global music icon H.E.R. and Filipino actress Liza Soberano, the pair is preparing to take separate paths after graduation.

But just as their lives begin to shift, an unexpected twist pulls them into something far more extraordinary. One mysterious night leads them through a portal—and into a world they once only heard about in stories.

Welcome to Nakali: Where Legends Live

Suddenly, Jo and Raissa find themselves in Nakali, a breathtaking island teeming with creatures from Filipino folklore. Vibrant yet unpredictable, this magical realm is filled with both wonder and danger, where every encounter brings them closer to understanding the island—and themselves.

Among the unforgettable characters they meet is Raww, a quirky weredog voiced by Dave Franco, whose clumsy charm adds humor to their journey. Yet not all beings are friendly. Lurking in the shadows is the feared Manananggal, brought to life by Tony Award® winner Lea Salonga, whose presence raises the stakes for everyone on the island.

The Price of Going Home

As Jo and Raissa search for a way back, they uncover a heartbreaking truth: returning home may cost them the very memories that define their friendship.

Faced with an impossible choice, the two must decide what truly matters—holding on to the past or finding the courage to move forward. With time slipping away, their bond becomes both their greatest strength and their most fragile vulnerability.

A Visionary Creative Team

Behind Forgotten Island is the acclaimed team of Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, with producer Mark Swift—all recognized for their work on Puss in Boots: The Last Wish. Known for crafting emotionally resonant stories, DreamWorks Animation continues its legacy of unforgettable relationships, from Shrek to How to Train Your Dragon.

This time, however, the spotlight shines on Filipino culture, weaving folklore, family, and friendship into a visually stunning cinematic experience.

An All-Star Ensemble

Joining H.E.R. and Liza Soberano is a dynamic lineup of voices, including: Jenny Slate, Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, and Ronny Chieng.

Together, they bring depth, humor, and energy to a story that feels both intimate and epic.

Watch the Trailer

Catch a glimpse of the adventure here:

Coming Soon to Cinemas

Filled with magic, emotion, and cultural richness, Forgotten Island promises a captivating and heartwarming cinematic journey. Don’t miss it when it opens in Philippine cinemas on September 23.

DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island is distributed by Universal Pictures. For more updates, follow: Facebook: Universal Pictures PH, Instagram: @UniversalPicturesPH, TikTok: @UniversalPicsPH

March 27, 2026