Rich in diverse stories, creatures, and spirits that reflect Filipino pre-colonial cultures and beliefs, the animated film “Forgotten Island,” about Philippine Mythology, is set to shine on global big screens worldwide on September 25, 2026, by DreamWorks.
Discover how Filipino mythology first thrilled global audiences through Trese on Netflix — read about the hit animated adaptation of the Pinoy graphic novel here.
The film is teased to be about the joyous adventures of a group of characters as they are transported to a forgotten, magical island full of Philippine mythology.
Finally! We can finally see Filipino mythology in action soon! Watch out for Forgotten Island by Dreamworks in September 2026.
Read more in https://t.co/GbmrGgKyXi https://t.co/OiLMesTHsa
— Tiffany (@tiffany_glz) July 17, 2025
The concept of a forgotten island isn’t a stranger to Filipinos for it is similar to the Biringan City of Samar. Biringan is believed to be inhabited by engkantos (supernatural beings). Tales believe that the city lured in fishermen to catch large batches of fish without knowing that they are actually floating in the skies of the city rather than its sea.
A similar city exists between Passi and Dumarao in Iloilo. Legend says that during the construction of the now-defunct Panay Railway, a worker was allegedly approached by a man who claimed to be from the mysterious Tumao. Tracks should not be built through their region, the tribesman warned. When the worker returned from a delicious dinner in a city where no one else could see it, it was gone. Some people think that the odd curves on that section of track are explained by the fact that engineers later changed the railway path to avoid the area.
Remember how Pinoy elements were featured in Disney’s Raya and the Last Dragon movie trailer
San Juan is also known as a “lost” island in Mindanao. Early maps of the Philippines included the island and its inhabitants but they disappeared in maps over time. Some believe that this was a cartographic error, while others believe that it may have been an early reference to modern-day Siargao or Bucas Grande.
With the rare representation of Southeast Asia in Hollywood animation, the film combines Filipino culture with magic and laughter, described as a “broad party comedy adventure.”
So excited to watch a Filipino mythology film directed by a Filipino himself (Januel Mercado)! What creatures will we see soon?
Read more on https://t.co/GbmrGgK17K https://t.co/aSuCjwlFvV
— Tiffany (@tiffany_glz) July 17, 2025
While the plot and cast remain secret, the film promises to remain deeply rooted in Filipino culture while capturing global attention. Some of the expected Filipino creatures that could be featured in the film are diwatas (fairies), Tikbalangs (horse-headed humans), Bakunawa ( colossal serpent), and Nuno sa Punso.
With Filipino mythology full of endless possibilities with tales about the world’s creation, god and goddesses, spirits and legends that mirror ancient connections with nature and faith, the movie marks a proud moment for Filipino representation in mainstream media. Currently, there are no famous animated films that focus on the rich culture and background of the Philippines.
Discover how Kali Arnis was showcased through the Netflix movie “The Old Guard.”
Besides co-directing and co-writing with longtime partner Joel Crawford, the film will represent the directorial debut of Filipino animation filmmaker Januel Mercado, who is expected to know the culture by heart. It was also the pair who brought us the charming Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.
DreamWorks is also known for producing films like “Shrek,” “Kung Fu Panda,” and “How to Train Your Dragon.”
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