MANILA, Philippines — “Forgotten Island” puts Filipino talent and culture at the forefront, with H.E.R. and Liza Soberano leading the star-studded voice cast of the animated original film from DreamWorks Animation.
Besides the Grammy and Academy winning R&B artist and rising Hollywood actress, more Filipino stars formed part of the ensemble for the upcoming film inspired by Philippine folklore.
Among the newest additions are internationally acclaimed Filipino actress Dolly de Leon, Filipino-American comedy superstar Jo Koy and Filipina-American actress Amielynn Abellera. Announced earlier were Tony-winning Filipino Broadway icon Lea Salonga and Filipino-Canadian actor Manny Jacinto. Completing the all-star cast are “Crazy Rich Asians” actor and Emmy winner Ronny Chieng, Emmy nominee Jenny Slate and American filmmaker-comedian Dave Franco.
De Leon, who made history as the first Filipina to earn “Best Supporting Actress” nominations at both the BAFTA and the Golden Globe Awards, shared her excitement over the project on social media.
“Over the moon with excitement and Pinoy pride to share ‘Forgotten Island’ with the world! Nakakaproud maging Pinoy,” she wrote on Instagram. “Thank you, DreamWorks, Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado for putting our stories out there.”
Soberano also expressed pride in being part of the Filipino folklore-themed animated film. This marks her second voice acting stint following Netflix’s animated series “Trese,” where she voiced the titular role, Alexandra Trese, in its Filipino-dubbed version.
“I have so much love for the whole team behind this project. I’m so so so honored and proud to be a part of such an amazing film that showcases Filipino culture and talent! Did everyone like the trailer?” she wrote following the release of the movie trailer on Wednesday.
The animated 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.”
According to the synopsis, “Forgotten Island” follows the story of Jo (voiced by H.E.R.) and Raissa (voiced by Soberano), who have been best friends since grade school but are now about to embark on separate life paths after high school.
While celebrating their last night together, Jo and Raissa stumble upon a mysterious portal that transports them to the fantastical island of Nakali, packed with magical and mythological creatures they grew up hearing stories about from their Filipino families.
Some of these figures will become friends, some foes. Joined by well-meaning-but-hapless weredog Raww (Franco) and a small-but-mighty pack of pals, Jo and Raissa must face The Dreaded Manananggal (Salonga), the most feared creature on the island.
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.
Distributed by Universal Pictures, “Forgotten Island” is slated to premiere in Philippine cinemas on Sept. 23.