A Bold New Adventure from DreamWorks Animation
In an industry often dominated by sequels and reboots, DreamWorks Animation is taking a refreshing risk with its latest original feature, Forgotten Island. Directed by the talented duo Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado—the creative minds who breathed new life into Puss in Boots: The Last Wish—this film promises to be more than just a visual spectacle; it is a heartfelt exploration of friendship and the fragile nature of memory.
The Heart of the Story: Friendship Across Borders
At its core, Forgotten Island is a coming-of-age story centered on the unbreakable bond between two best friends from the Philippines: the spirited and eccentric Jo and the ambitious, science-minded Raissa. Having shared every childhood memory, the girls find themselves at a crossroads as they prepare for adulthood. While Raissa is headed for the prestigious Caltech in the US, Jo feels stuck in a dead-end job.
Their lives change forever on their final night together when they discover a magical portal on a beach leading to Nakali—the mysterious and vibrant “Forgotten Island.”
Enter Dave Franco: Bringing Raww to Life
One of the standout elements of the film is its eclectic supporting cast. Adding a layer of comedic energy and charm is Dave Franco, who voices Raww, a chaotic “Weredog.”
Raww is a character defined by instability—both physically and emotionally—shifting between human and canine forms. Dave Franco delivers a stylish and fun performance, portraying a self-appointed guide who is as much a mess as he is helpful. His chemistry with the leads adds a necessary spark to the journey through the surreal landscapes of Nakali.
A World of Wonder and Quirky Characters
The island of Nakali is populated by a gallery of unforgettable characters that keep the narrative moving at a frenetic pace:
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- Bungi (Manny Jacinto): A cycloptic blue giant baby with a literal attachment to his mother.
- Batiba (Jenny Slate): An agoraphobic cave-dweller who collects stolen memories from others.
- The Dreaded Manananggal (Lea Solonga): A terrifying yet complex villainess based on Filipino folklore.
- Daju (Jo Koy) & King Truffle Wuffle (Ronny Chieng): Adding layers of humor and eccentricity to the world.
Visual Splendor and Emotional Depth
Visually, the film is a triumph. DreamWorks employs a variety of animation styles that shift and evolve, mirroring the fluid nature of memory. While the first half of the movie is a whirlwind of activity—perhaps designed for the short attention spans of modern audiences—the second half slows down to let the emotional stakes breathe.
The central theme—the importance of preserving our memories to understand who we are—is handled with grace. Complemented by a catchy soundtrack featuring original songs by H.E.R., the film successfully balances its wild imagination with a poignant message about the value of lifelong friendship.
Movie Fast Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Date | September 25, 2026 |
| Rating | PG |
| Runtime | 1 hr 47 mins |
| Key Cast | H.E.R., Dave Franco, Liza Soberano, Jenny Slate |
Forgotten Island may be a whirlwind, but for younger audiences and those who cherish the bond of “besties,” it is a journey well worth taking. With a stellar performance by Dave Franco and a rich cultural tapestry, it is set to be a memorable addition to the DreamWorks library.
