Full Breakdown
DreamWorks Animation Unveils Trailer for Upcoming Film “Forgotten Island”
6/24/2026, 10:41:25 PM
Trailer Launch and Plot Overview
DreamWorks Animation and Universal Pictures released a second trailer for “Forgotten Island”. The short follows Jo (voiced by H.E.R.) and Raissa (voiced by Liza Soberano), two high-school graduates who step through a portal to the magical island of Nakali, where mythic creatures await and a race against memory loss begins.
Filipino Folklore Foundations
The island of Nakali is built on Filipino mythology, featuring legendary beings such as the Manananggal and other creatures that the protagonists recall from family stories. These folklore elements serve as both allies and antagonists, anchoring the fantasy world in cultural tradition.
Creative Team and Voice Cast
The film is written and directed by Academy Award-nominee Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, with production by Academy Award-nominee Mark Swift, who also co-produced *Puss in Boots: The Last Wish*. The voice roster includes Grammy-winner H.E.R., actress Liza Soberano, Dave Franco as the weredog Raww, Lea Salonga as the Manananggal, and supporting talent Jenny Slate, Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy and Ronny Chieng.
Release Schedule and Conflicting Dates
Universal Pictures lists a theatrical debut on September 25, 2026. A separate report from SciFiNow cites an October 16, 2026 opening, creating a minor discrepancy that has not been clarified by the studios. The film will be distributed globally through Universal’s standard theatrical channels.
Visual Style and Animation Techniques
The trailer blends 3D computer-generated animation with a full 2D sequence that recalls 1980s Saturday-morning cartoons and classic anime. Reviewers note extra-cartoony facial expressions and stylized effects that make the CG world feel more kinetic and visually distinct.
Cultural Impact and Representation
The project foregrounds Filipino folklore and features several performers of Filipino descent, including H.E.R., Liza Soberano, Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy and Ronny Chieng. Its high-profile platform may broaden global awareness of Southeast Asian mythic traditions within mainstream animation.
Official Studio Statements
DreamWorks Animation and Universal Pictures confirmed the trailer release and the September 2026 launch window in official communications, emphasizing the collaboration of award-nominated creators and the film’s blend of cultural storytelling with cutting-edge animation as central selling points.
Verbatim Quotes
- “DreamWorks Animation and Universal Pictures have released a second trailer for the new animated feature “Forgotten Island”.”.” — DreamWorks Animation/Universal Pictures
- “On top of the spunky character design and mystical setting, the spot stands out for its splashes of extra-cartoony expressions and elements that make the 3D CG animation pop.” — Animation Magazine
- “The new original film is written and directed by Academy Award nominee Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, and is produced by Academy Award nominee Mark Swift, the filmmaking team behind Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.” — Animation Magazine
- “When they discover that the memories of their entire friendship are the price for returning home, Jo and Raissa will race to find a way to leave the island before they forget each other forever.” — Dark Horizons
