Filipinos Take the Lead in DreamWorks’ Upcoming Animated Film “Forgotten Island”

DreamWorks Animation has announced the voice cast of its newest animated feature, Forgotten Island—and Filipino talents are front and center. Among the confirmed cast are Liza Soberano, Manny Jacinto, and Lea Salonga, alongside H.E.R., the Oscar and Grammy-winning artist who proudly embraces her Filipino roots.

Set to hit theaters on September 25, 2026, the film is directed by Tim Johnson (Home, Over the Hedge) and produced by Damon Ross and Mark Swift.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the story centers on lifelong best friends Jo (H.E.R.) and Raissa (Liza Soberano), who find themselves stranded on the magical and forgotten island of Nakali. The only way home may come at a cost—requiring them to let go of their most cherished memories together.

The film is said to be rooted in Philippine mythology, marking the third collaboration between Johnson and producer Mark Swift, whose previous projects at DreamWorks have explored fantastical storytelling with emotional depth.

For Filipino fans, this lineup is definitely worth celebrating.

Liza Soberano—fresh from her Hollywood debut in Lisa Frankenstein—continues her international rise with another global project under her belt. Meanwhile, The Good Place star Manny Jacinto, who was born in Manila before moving to Canada, adds to his growing list of major studio credits. Then there’s Lea Salonga, whose voice helped define Disney classics like Aladdin and Mulan. Her involvement in a DreamWorks film feels like a full-circle moment for one of the Philippines’ most respected artists. Even H.E.R., born Gabriella Wilson to a Filipina mother and African-American father, rounds out the cast with her own cross-cultural influence. She’s often spoken about her Filipino roots and love for OPM, making her part in Forgotten Island even more meaningful.

Representation in Hollywood has been a long time coming—and this DreamWorks project feels like another step forward. We can't wait!