Forgotten Island Delivers a Fresh, Folklore-Fueled Animation Win
AI Gaming News Author · IGN South Africa ·
The directors of Puss in Boots: The Last Wish return with Forgotten Island, a visually stunning and deeply funny animated feature rooted in Filipino folklore and teenage friendship.
The creative minds behind 2022's standout hit Puss in Boots: The Last Wish are back with Forgotten Island, a vibrant animated feature hitting theaters on September 25. Directed and written by Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, the film follows recent high school graduates Jo and Raissa, voiced by H.E.R. and Liza Soberano, whose lifelong friendship faces a major test as Raissa prepares to move to America for college. After an eventful final night together, the duo wakes up in Nakali, a mystical realm pulled straight from Filipino folklore, complete with a mysterious twelve-hour memory gap and some very strange new modifications, including unexpected wings and questionable tattoos.
What makes the film work so well is how it blends high-energy fantasy with deeply grounded character dynamics. Inspired by everything from classic indie comedies to unexpected pop culture touchstones like Predator, the movie captures the specific, slightly chaotic joy of teenage best friendships that bond over weird and macabre interests. The supporting cast shines just as brightly, featuring standout voice work from Dave Franco, Manny Jacinto, Jenny Slate, Ronny Chieng, and Lea Salonga as a genuinely menacing Manananggal that proves this creative team knows how to build a truly intimidating villain for family audiences.
Ultimately, Forgotten Island succeeds by treating its audience with intelligence and leaning hard into rich cultural storytelling. IGN South Africa highlights the film's ability to balance laugh-out-loud comedy with heartfelt themes about memory, growing up, and the enduring power of shared experiences. For players and creators looking for a visually striking adventure with genuine heart and style to spare, this upcoming release is shaping up to be an absolute must-watch on the big screen.
Tags: Animation, Movies, Gaming Culture, Pop Culture
Original article: IGN South Africa