Metro Manila, Philippines – Liza Soberano and Grammy and Academy Award-winning artist H.E.R. are coming to the Philippines on Aug. 25 to promote DreamWorks Animation’s upcoming Filipino-inspired film “Forgotten Island.”
The two lead voice stars will be joined by Filipino American director Januel Mercado, director Joel Crawford and producer Mark Swift for the “Tayo Na, Philippines!” celebration. The Philippines will be the first international stop for the film’s cast and filmmakers.
Fans will get a chance to see the cast and creative team during a public event at the SM Mall of Asia Main Atrium on Aug. 25 at 7 p.m.
The Manila visit also serves as a homecoming for several members of the team. Soberano and H.E.R. have Filipino roots, while Mercado is Filipino American. Crawford’s wife and family are Filipino, and Swift made several trips to the Philippines while the movie was being developed.
“Forgotten Island” centers on high school graduates Jo and Raissa, voiced by H.E.R. and Soberano, respectively. The lifelong best friends are preparing to go their separate ways when they stumble upon a portal leading to the mysterious island of Nakali.
The island is populated by magical and mythological creatures inspired by stories from their Filipino families.
Among them is The Dreaded Manananggal, voiced by Lea Salonga. Dave Franco voices Raww, a “weredog” who joins Jo and Raissa on their journey.
The film also features Filipino actors Manny Jacinto and Dolly de Leon, alongside Jenny Slate, Jo Koy and Ronny Chieng. F
Crawford and Mercado wrote and directed the original animated film, reuniting with producer Swift after working together on “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.”
“Forgotten Island” opens in Philippine cinemas on Sept. 23.
