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'Forgotten Island' to hit theatres in fall 2026, inspired by Philippine mythology

ANI April 16, 2025 242 views

DreamWorks Animation is set to release an exciting new animated film called 'Forgotten Island' in September 2026. The movie promises to explore Philippine mythology through a comedic adventure lens, marking a significant creative collaboration between directors Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado. Mercado, known for his work on 'Puss in Boots: The Last Wish', will make his solo directorial debut with this project. The film comes on the heels of DreamWorks' recent successful release, 'The Wild Robot', signaling the studio's continued commitment to innovative storytelling.

"A vibrant, comedic adventure that transports characters to a long-lost, enchanted island" - Deadline"
Washington, April 16: DreamWorks Animation and Universal Pictures have officially set a release date for their upcoming original animated feature, 'Forgotten Island,' which is slated to hit theatres on September 25, 2026.

Key Points

1

DreamWorks animated feature blends Philippine mythology with comedy

2

Directed by Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado

3

Marks Mercado's solo directorial debut

4

Follows successful 'Puss in Boots' collaboration

Directed by Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, the film is being kept under tight wraps.

According to Deadline, the movie is a vibrant, comedic adventure that transports its characters to a long-lost, enchanted island deeply rooted in Philippine mythology.

The project is expected to blend cultural richness with mainstream appeal in a broad "party comedy adventure" style.

This marks Januel Mercado's solo directorial debut after previously co-directing 'Puss in Boots: The Last Wish,' a film that earned critical acclaim and multiple award nominations.

He also served as head of story on 'The Croods: A New Age,' another hit directed by Crawford.

The duo reunites for 'Forgotten Island' alongside producer Mark Swift, continuing their creative collaboration.

The announcement follows DreamWorks' recent release, 'The Wild Robot,' which opened to USD 35.7 million domestically and crossed USD 333 million globally, as per Deadline.

Reader Comments

M
Maria L.
So excited to see Philippine mythology getting the spotlight! 🇵🇭 The team behind Puss in Boots: The Last Wish is involved too? Count me in! Hope they do our folklore justice.
J
James T.
The "party comedy adventure" angle worries me a bit. I hope they don't water down the cultural aspects too much for mainstream appeal. But cautiously optimistic!
A
Alicia K.
DreamWorks has been on fire lately with their animation quality. The Wild Robot was stunning, and if this has the same creative team as Puss in Boots 2, we're in for a treat!
D
Derek S.
September 2026 feels so far away 😭 But good animation takes time. Hope they consult with Filipino cultural experts to make this authentic.
L
Lina P.
As a Filipino-American, this makes me so happy! Finally seeing our mythology represented in mainstream animation. Crossing my fingers they include some Tagalog words or phrases 🤞
T
Trevor M.
The director combo worked magic on Puss in Boots 2. If they bring that same energy and storytelling to this, we might have another classic on our hands. Can't wait!

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Tags:
DreamWorks Animation Forgotten Island Joel Crawford Januel Mercado Philippine Mythology Animated Film Universal Pictures
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