Forgotten Island Review: DreamWorks Crafts Another Hit With This Tale of Friendship
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Cited: Deadline, Animation Magazine, The Film Maven
TL;DR
DreamWorks' Forgotten Island is a critically acclaimed animated tale of friendship and memory, featuring H.E.R. and Dave Franco, and premiered as the first film at the Lucas Museum.
Why now
With its release on September 25, 2026, the film arrives amid DreamWorks' winning streak of emotionally complex animated features like The Wild Robot and Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.
Agree / conflict
Critics agree on the strong voice cast and emotional depth, though some note that the film shares structural similarities with earlier DreamWorks hits.
Takeaway
Forgotten Island is a must-watch for fans of thoughtful animation; it celebrates Filipino culture and the power of memories in a visually stunning package.
DreamWorks Animation's Forgotten Island, directed by Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, follows best friends Jo and Raissa as they are whisked away to a mythical island where memories are currency. The film's voice cast—led by H.E.R. and Liza Soberano—delivers performances that breathe life into a story about the bittersweet nature of growing up and the fear of forgetting the people we love. The animation pulses with color and energy, mixing hand-drawn sensibilities with modern CGI.
Critics have praised the film for its emotional resonance and cultural authenticity, particularly its Filipino roots. The premiere at the Lucas Museum added a layer of prestige, while the film's themes of friendship and memory have struck a chord with audiences. Although some reviewers note that it borrows beats from earlier DreamWorks adventures, the execution is so heartfelt that it stands on its own as a worthy addition to the studio's canon.
FAQ
Who voices the main characters in 'Forgotten Island'?
H.E.R. voices Jo, Liza Soberano voices Raissa, Dave Franco voices Raww, and Lea Salonga voices the villain Manananggal.
When does 'Forgotten Island' release?
The film premiered at the Lucas Museum on September 23, 2026, and opens in theaters everywhere on September 25, 2026.
Is 'Forgotten Island' suitable for young children?
The film is rated PG. While it contains some intense scenes with the villain, its themes of friendship and memory are accessible to older children and adults.
How long is the movie?
The running time is 1 hour and 47 minutes.
Sources
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