DreamWorks Animation’s new film Forgotten Island, co-directed by Joel Crawford and Filipino-American filmmaker Januel Mercado, is putting Filipino mythology, culture, and talent on a global stage in a way rarely seen in a major Hollywood animated film. From its diverse voice cast and folklore-driven narrative to its Filipino-led music contributions, there’s plenty driving the excitement around this upcoming release.

Here are 5 reasons to be excited for Forgotten Island:

1. A Groundbreaking Filipino-themed Hollywood Film
Forgotten Island marks a major milestone for Filipino representation in animation, especially in Hollywood. Produced by DreamWorks Animation, the film follows in the footsteps of beloved studio hits such as Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, and How to Train Your Dragon. Set in a world inspired by the Philippines and rooted in Philippine mythology, with a cast led by Filipino and Filipino-American talent, Forgotten Island puts Filipino culture front and center in a way rarely seen in a major Hollywood animated feature.

2. A Filipino All-Star Cast
One of the biggest draws of Forgotten Island is its impressive lineup of Filipino and Filipino-American talent. Leading the cast are Grammy and Academy Award-winning singer-songwriter H.E.R. and actress Liza Soberano as best friends Jo and Raissa, alongside Broadway legend Lea Salonga (playing a manananggal!) and The Good Place’s Manny Jacinto. The film also features internationally acclaimed actress Dolly de Leon, The Pitt’s Amielynn Abellera, and comedian Jo Koy, making Forgotten Island a true showcase of Filipino and Filipino-American talent.

3. A Story and Setting Rooted in Philippine Mythology
Beyond its star-studded cast, Forgotten Island stands out for its story, which draws inspiration from Philippine mythology and folklore. Set in the 1990s, the film follows two friends who are transported to the fantastical island of Nakali, where memories fade the longer one remains. There, they encounter creatures from Filipino folklore such as the manananggal, a tiyanak, and a batibat. The look and feel of the Philippines are also captured brilliantly through the directing team’s creative vision and vibrant animation style, with some scenes brought to life by Manila-based studio Snipple Animation.

4. A Soundtrack Packed with Filipino Talent
Music plays a huge role in bringing animated films to life, and Forgotten Island is set to showcase Filipino talent beyond its cast. The film’s soundtrack is expected to feature contributions from major P-pop groups BINI and SB19, while singers-turned-voice actors H.E.R. and Lea Salonga will also have songs in the soundtrack, alongside girl group Katseye’s Sophia Laforteza. The film’s score is also by Filipino-American composer Nathan Matthew David.

5. The Wait Won’t Be Much Longer
After an early work-in-progress screening at CinemaCon earlier this year, and a premiere reportedly met with a standing ovation at the prestigious Annecy International Animated Film Festival this June, Forgotten Island is scheduled for release this September in the Philippines. Filipino fans won’t have to spend too much time counting down the days before they can finally experience the highly anticipated animated adventure for themselves.

With that kind of cultural spotlight, Filipinos around the globe have every reason to showcase their Pinoy pride this September. Forgotten Island is a milestone moment for Filipino representation in mainstream film, and it’s definitely one animated film worth seeing on the big screen.

Don’t miss the magical tale of Forgotten Island, arriving in Philippine cinemas on September 23. Check out Universal Pictures PH (FB), UniversalPicturesPH (IG), and UniversalPicsPH (TikTok) for the latest news and updates.