FORGOTTEN ISLAND – A Magical Filipino Adventure Brought to Life by H.E.R. and Liza Soberano

Overview

Forgotten Island is an animated adventure that blends Filipino folklore, heartfelt friendship, and high‑energy fantasy into a vibrant cinematic experience. The film follows best friends Jo and Raissa as they celebrate their final night together before life pulls them in different directions. What begins as a simple farewell turns extraordinary when they stumble upon a glowing portal that transports them to Nakali, a mythical island filled with creatures they grew up hearing about from their Filipino families.

Nakali is a place where legends breathe, magic thrives, and danger lurks behind every tree. Some of the island’s inhabitants welcome Jo and Raissa with open arms — others are far more sinister. As the girls navigate this strange new world, they quickly learn that their bond may be the only thing strong enough to guide them home.

Plot Summary

Once Jo and Raissa arrive on Nakali, they encounter a colorful cast of magical beings, including Raww, a well‑meaning but hilariously clumsy weredog voiced by Dave Franco. Raww becomes their loyal companion, helping them gather a small team of allies as they explore the island’s wonders and threats.

But Nakali holds a darker secret. The island is ruled by The Dreaded Manananggal, portrayed by Tony Award–winning icon Lea Salonga. This fearsome creature — one of the most infamous figures in Filipino mythology — becomes the central antagonist Jo and Raissa must face. Her presence adds a chilling edge to the film’s otherwise whimsical world.

The stakes rise dramatically when the girls learn the true cost of returning home: their memories of each other. Every shared moment, every laugh, every piece of their lifelong friendship is at risk of disappearing forever. With time running out, Jo and Raissa race to find a way off Nakali before their bond is erased.

Cast

The film features a powerhouse ensemble of Filipino and international talent:

• H.E.R.
• Liza Soberano
• Dave Franco as Raww
• Jenny Slate
• Manny Jacinto
• Dolly de Leon
• Jo Koy
• Ronny Chieng
• Lea Salonga as The Manananggal

This cast brings humor, heart, and cultural authenticity to the film’s magical world.

Directors & Creative Team

Forgotten Island is directed by Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, both known for their work on high‑energy animated films that balance comedy with emotional storytelling. Their direction infuses Nakali with a rich sense of wonder, ensuring the film’s mythical creatures feel both fantastical and deeply rooted in Filipino heritage.

The film is produced by Mark Swift, whose experience with major animated franchises helps elevate the movie’s scale, pacing, and visual charm.

Themes & Cultural Significance

Beyond its adventure‑driven plot, Forgotten Island celebrates Filipino culture through:

• Mythological creatures like the Manananggal, Tikbalang, and other folklore icons
• Family storytelling traditions passed down through generations
• Friendship and identity, explored through Jo and Raissa’s emotional journey
• Representation, with a cast and creative team that highlight Filipino voices in mainstream animation

The film offers a fresh entry point for global audiences to discover Filipino mythology while giving Filipino viewers a heartfelt, culturally resonant story.

Genre & Style

Animated Adventure Expect lush world‑building, expressive character animation, and a blend of humor, suspense, and heartfelt moments. The tone balances lighthearted fantasy with emotional stakes, making it accessible for families while still offering depth for older viewers.

Why Forgotten Island Stands Out

• It centers Filipino mythology in a major animated feature.
• The cast is stacked with beloved Filipino and Asian American performers.
• The emotional core — a friendship threatened by magical forces — gives the film universal appeal.
• The creature designs and world of Nakali promise a visually stunning experience.