DreamWorks’ ‘Forgotten Island’ Trailer Reveals Mind-Blowing Portal Adventure You Can’t Miss
DreamWorks Animation has just dropped the first trailer for their new animated film, “Forgotten Island,” and it’s already capturing attention. The movie is set in the 1990s and follows two best friends, Jo and Raissa, voiced by H.E.R and Liza Soberano.
The story begins on their last night together before heading off in different directions after high school. While celebrating with junk food and karaoke, they discover a magical portal that transports them into worlds inspired by Filipino folklore. There, they encounter shapeshifters, witches, demons, and monsters, testing the strength of their friendship as they try to find their way back home.
The idea for “Forgotten Island” comes from directors Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, who based the story on their own friendship. Mercado shared, “We very quickly found out we have very similar sensibilities.”
This September, experience the adventure of a lifetime. @DreamWorks Forgotten Island is only in theaters September 25! pic.twitter.com/zWCgjdTHb9
— DreamWorks Animation (@Dreamworks) March 25, 2026
The duo presented the trailer at DreamWorks’ headquarters in Glendale alongside H.E.R and Soberano. For H.E.R, this is her first experience in voice acting. She expressed excitement about the project, saying, “I literally grew up on these stories. I get to share a piece of my childhood in this work and with the world.” Soberano added, “To have Filipino culture showcased by a major studio is very exciting.”
The 1990s setting is important to the story, according to Crawford and Mercado. It reflects a time before phones and social media, emphasizing the value of real-life moments and memories. Mercado explained, “Polaroids are a big part of this movie…you’ve got 12 pictures, and you’re going to be very specific how you use them. Versus now, we have phones and how you take a bunch of pictures, and do you ever look at them again?” This focus on memory and nostalgia ties directly into the film’s emotional core.
Animation in “Forgotten Island” is designed to feel fresh and dynamic. Crawford noted that the team incorporated anime-inspired action and expressive character movements. Mercado added that the 2D elements feature hand-drawn, painterly textures to bring the fantasy worlds to life. “With the cinematography, we try to treat it like you’re actually shooting a film…connected to the theme of memories, nostalgia, and the pictures we take,” he said.
The film also features a star-studded supporting voice cast including Lea Salonga, Dave Franco, Manny Jacinto, Jenny Slate, Jo Koy, Dolly de Leon, Ronny Chieng, and Amielynn Abellera. “Forgotten Island” will be released in the United States on September 25.
“Forgotten Island” looks like a unique blend of adventure, culture, and heartfelt friendship. The focus on Filipino folklore and 1990s nostalgia adds a layer of originality that sets it apart from typical animated films. I’m curious to see how the magical world and real-world themes blend together. What do you think about the trailer and the story so far? Share your thoughts in the comments.
