In theaters on September 25th is ‘Forgotten Island,’ the latest release from DreamWorks Animation and the latest title to draw on Asian mythology that blends in anime stylings and wild characters to solid effect.

Written and directed by Joel Crawford (‘Puss in Boots: The Last Wish’) and Januel Mercado (‘The Croods: A New Age’) the voice cast for the movie includes Liza Soberano (‘Lisa Frankenstein’), H.E.R. (‘The Color Purple’), Dave Franco (‘Together’), Jenny Slate (‘Marcel the Shell with Shoes On’) and Manny Jacinto (‘Freakier Friday’).

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Initial Thoughts

With its fellow main animation studios (Pixar, Disney etc.) all seemingly focused on churning out sequels as originals don’t perform as well at the box office, it’s good to see DreamWorks (no stranger to franchises) gambling on a full original, this one drawn from Philippine myths and legends.

That said, in the wake of ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ giant success, this mix of mythology and wild action stands a good chance of being another crossover hit, even if the storytelling basics feel familiar.

Script and Direction

Writer/director duo Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, longtime friends and colleagues, channeled their own friendly connection into the story for ‘Forgotten Island’ and the result in a heartfelt tale of two young Filipino women at a crossroads in their life –– one is headed to college in America, the other fears being left behind.

While the bare bones of the plot are exceedingly familiar –– expounding the importance of found family and the key role memory plays in relationships of all kinds, all tied into a MacGuffin hunt –– what’s built upon them is fresh and vivid.

And visually the movie continues DreamWorks’ experimentation with blending animation techniques, making the movie look truly impressive on a number of occasions.

Cast and Performances

Lead duo Liza Soberano and H.E.R. make for an appealing, easy to empathise-with duo, but the scenes are more often stolen by the likes of Dave Franco (as a were-canine), Manny Jacinto (as a giant, 200-year-old baby demon) and Jenny Slate as a memory-stealing creature.

The wider ensemble give the movie its clear flavor and if Lea Salonga (‘Mulan’) has less to do as one of the main antagonist, she brings force to the role.

Final Thoughts

‘Forgotten Island’ is certainly a more inventive and worthwhile family night out than some recent efforts, and it offers a healthy blend of wild, crazy action and colorful characters for the kids and serious nostalgic via gadgets and needle drops for those born in the 1990s.

‘Forgotten Island’ receives 77 out of 100.

What is the plot of ‘Forgotten Island’?

Two best friends become stranded on the mystical world of Nakali, where their only escape might cost them their shared lifetime of memories.

Who is in the cast of ‘Forgotten Island’?

• H.E.R. as Jo
• Liza Soberano as Raissa
• Dave Franco as Raww
• Manny Jacinto as Bungi
• Jenny Slate as Batiba
• Lea Salonga as The Dreaded Manananggal

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