Forgotten Island opens in U.S. theaters September 25, 2026, and early reviews are highlighting its Filipino folklore, central friendship and energetic DreamWorks animation.
What critics are praising
Rotten Tomatoes currently lists positive reviews from outlets including IndieWire and The Hollywood Reporter. IndieWire’s David Ehrlich gave the movie a B and emphasized the strength of Jo and Raissa’s friendship even when the plot becomes busy.
The Film Maven gave the movie a B+ and described it as a standout among 2026 animated films. The Hollywood Reporter also praised the film’s wit, humor, energy and visual invention while noting its complicated story.
The friendship is the movie’s anchor
At the center are Jo, voiced by H.E.R., and Raissa, voiced by Liza Soberano. Their friendship becomes the emotional test of the fantasy adventure when the pair are transported to Nakali.
Why Filipino folklore is getting attention
Reuters reports that Forgotten Island is the first major animated feature to draw directly on Filipino myths and culture. The movie features the Manananggal alongside other creatures and legends from Filipino storytelling.
What critics say about the story
The main reservation appearing in early reviews is narrative density. Several critics have described the plot as busy or convoluted, even while praising the movie’s humor, visual energy and emotional center.
When can you see Forgotten Island?
The DreamWorks movie opens in U.S. theaters Friday, September 25, 2026. Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado co-directed the film, with H.E.R., Liza Soberano, Dave Franco, Jenny Slate, Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, Ronny Chieng and Lea Salonga among the voice cast.
Sources
Rotten Tomatoes, Reuters, and DreamWorks Animation.
Author: Shivam Das
