DreamWorks Animation has released the second official trailer for its upcoming animated feature "Forgotten Island," scheduled to open in theaters on Sept. 25, 2026 [1].
The film represents a significant push by the studio to integrate Filipino cultural elements into a global animated production. By centering the narrative around Filipino themes and talent, DreamWorks is expanding its reach into Southeast Asian representation within the fantasy genre.
Written and directed by Academy Award nominees Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, the project is produced by Academy Award nominee Mark Swift [1]. The voice cast includes Grammy-winner H.E.R., actress Liza Soberano, and actor Dave Franco [1].
The latest footage highlights what the studio said is one of its most original worlds to date [3]. The story focuses on Filipino best friends and incorporates cultural motifs designed to celebrate the heritage of the Philippines [4, 5].
Production details emphasize a commitment to authenticity in the film's visual and narrative approach. The trailer serves as a primary promotional tool to build anticipation for the worldwide theatrical debut later this year [1, 6].
Industry observers said that the casting of Soberano and the direction of Mercado signal a strategic effort to align the film's creative leadership with its cultural setting [4]. The film aims to bridge the gap between Western animation standards and specific regional identities through its depiction of a fantasy landscape rooted in Filipino influence [5].
“DreamWorks Animation released a second official trailer for its upcoming animated film 'Forgotten Island'.”
The release of 'Forgotten Island' indicates a broader trend in major animation studios toward specific cultural authenticity rather than generalized global settings. By employing a Filipino director and lead cast, DreamWorks is attempting to capture both the domestic Philippine market and a global audience interested in diverse storytelling, potentially opening new avenues for regional representation in high-budget CGI cinema.
