DreamWorks Animation Returns to '90s Filipino Glory with Forgotten Island

DreamWorks Animation, a studio that has gifted us with unforgettable characters and worlds since 1998, is gearing up for a triumphant return to its '90s glory days with a brand-new original film, Forgotten Island. This upcoming fantasy-comedy is poised to transport audiences to the 1990s Philippines, introducing us to two soon-to-be inseparable best friends, Jo and Raissa. Voiced by the talented H.E.R. and Liza Soberano respectively, their journey into a magical realm could be the very thing that tests the strength of their budding friendship.

The creative engine behind Forgotten Island is the writing-directing team of Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, whose own two-decade-long friendship has clearly informed the film's core themes. "For two decades, we have put so much of ourselves into every movie we do together," Crawford shares. "That can be just jokes, things that make us laugh, or themes about being in the moment that we both really value in our own lives." Their collaboration began as story artists on Kung Fu Panda 2, and after working on successful sequels like The Croods: A New Age and the Oscar-nominated Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, they were eager to embark on an entirely original project.

"We wanted to do something original, but really original in every sense of the word," Crawford explains. "So building a story around friendship, and our friendship, seemed the best place to start." This focus on authentic connection is mirrored in the on-screen dynamic between Jo, described as a livewire, and Raissa, a smartypants, whose contrasting personalities are sure to create sparks and generate plenty of laughs.

A New World of Adventure

The choice to set Forgotten Island in the 1990s Philippines offers a rich tapestry of cultural detail and a distinct visual identity that sets it apart from many previous DreamWorks offerings. This era, often fondly remembered for its unique blend of emerging technology and enduring traditions, provides a fertile ground for a story about friendship and discovery. The film's premise, where a magical quest might jeopardize the very bond that drives it, promises a narrative with genuine emotional stakes, appealing to both longtime fans of the studio's character-driven epics and newcomers alike.

The Heart of Friendship

For the dedicated WeCult audience, Forgotten Island represents more than just another animated feature; it signifies DreamWorks Animation's commitment to original storytelling and its ability to tap into universal themes through diverse cultural lenses. The emphasis on a deeply personal friendship, born from the real-life bond of its creators, suggests an authenticity that resonates with fans who have grown up with characters like Shrek and Hiccup. The anticipation builds around how Jo and Raissa's adventure will explore the complexities of connection, offering a relatable narrative that celebrates the power of true friendship, a concept that has long been the secret sauce of DreamWorks's most beloved films.

What's Next

While specific release dates for Forgotten Island have not yet been announced, the project's development signifies an exciting new chapter for DreamWorks Animation. Fans can look forward to further details regarding the film's visual style, supporting cast, and the magical elements that will define Jo and Raissa's unforgettable journey.