DreamWorks' 'Forgotten Island' Premieres at Lucas Museum with Acclaim

Key points

• The film is an original story set in the Philippines in the 1990s, focusing on two schoolgirls, Jo and Raissa, who are transported to a mythical island called Nakali.
• The voice cast includes H.E.R., Liza Soberano, Dave Franco, Jenny Slate, Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, Ronny Chieng, and Lea Salonga.
• Directors Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado previously collaborated on 'Puss in Boots: The Last Wish' (2022).
• The film holds a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and is described by critics as a rare example of original animated storytelling in a market dominated by sequels and IP.
• The premiere took place on September 23, 2026, at the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, marking the first movie premiere at the venue since its opening on September 22.
• The film is rated PG, runs for 1 hour and 47 minutes, and features a soundtrack incorporating traditional Filipino and Indigenous instruments alongside covers of 1990s pop classics.

Background

DreamWorks Animation has been navigating a landscape increasingly dominated by sequels and existing intellectual property. While the studio has seen success with franchises like 'Puss in Boots,' 'Forgotten Island' represents a pivot toward original, culturally specific narratives. This follows a period where the studio's assistant staff, such as Kalos Chu, have been moving into other development deals, indicating a broader industry shift in how animation talent is utilized.

How outlets are covering it

The Hollywood Reporter (THR) emphasizes the film's visual dazzle and its status as a rare original in a sea of IP, noting the influence of anime and 'Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse' on its animation style. Fresh Fiction highlights the emotional core of the film, describing it as a 'heartfelt ode to female friendship' and praising its balance of comedy and horror elements, comparing its energy to 'Booksmart.' Laughing Place focuses on the logistical and industry significance of the premiere, noting that 'Forgotten Island' is the first film to premiere at the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, a venue co-founded by George Lucas and Mellody Hobson. All sources agree on the high quality of the voice cast, particularly Dave Franco's performance as Raww, and the film's strong critical reception, with THR and Fresh Fiction both awarding high grades or positive reviews.

Why it matters

'Forgotten Island' demonstrates that original, culturally rich animated films can achieve critical success and high audience ratings in a market often perceived as saturated with sequels. Its premiere at the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art signals a new trend in high-profile film events, potentially setting a precedent for future premieres in Los Angeles. The film's success also highlights the growing importance of diverse cultural narratives in mainstream animation, moving beyond traditional Western-centric stories.

What to watch

The film is scheduled for a wide theatrical release on September 25, 2026. The success of 'Forgotten Island' may influence DreamWorks Animation's future slate, potentially leading to more original, culturally specific projects. The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art may become a regular venue for film premieres, given its state-of-the-art theaters and high-profile opening.