When Friendship Meets Fantasy: The Magic of 'Forgotten Island'

Friendship, Fantasy, and the Filipino Soul

There's something magical about a story that makes you feel like you've discovered a hidden treasure. DreamWorks Animation's latest animated feature, Forgotten Island, does just that. But more than that, it captures the essence of friendship in ways that resonate far beyond its fantastical premise.

"The story was one that hit home," says Liza Soberano, reflecting on her experience working on the film. "Growing up in the Philippines, I understood the theme of 'losing' a family member or a friend who needed to go overseas for a better quality of life."

Soberano's words echo through the film's heart, where the emotional core isn't just about magic or adventure but about the very real and profound experiences that shape us—like saying goodbye to someone you love.

Why This Story Feels So Personal

What struck me most when speaking with both Soberano and H.E.R. was how deeply they connected to the film's central theme: separation, distance, and the resilience of friendship. The two actresses don't just voice characters—they carry their own stories into every line.

H.E.R., who grew up near Vallejo, California, shared her own journey of leaving home at 17 for New York. "It wasn't as far away—just across the country—but it felt super far," she recalls. "My sister was eight at the time, and I was 17 and she wanted her big sister around."

These moments of personal resonance are what elevate Forgotten Island from a typical animated film into something more nuanced and emotionally rich. It's not just about the fantasy world—it's about how we navigate our relationships when life pulls us in different directions.

Cultural Threads in a Universal Tale

One of the most beautiful aspects of Forgotten Island is its weaving of Filipino culture into the fabric of the story. From the pasalubong (gift-giving) to the despedida (farewell party), these elements bring a vivid authenticity that resonates with anyone who has experienced loss or separation.

"Seeing the Filipino sun for the first time—before even seeing the full film—made us so emotional," H.E.R. shares. "I remember seeing 'pasalubong' written on the screen and thinking, oh my gosh, this is as Filipino as it gets."

Soberano adds, "The despedida was such an accurate depiction of what it's like to be at a Filipino house party... You have the lolas and lolos being grumpy, the kids hiding under tables, titos and titas singing karaoke. It was beautiful—full of chaos but also love."

This cultural specificity doesn't just add flavor—it grounds the film in something deeply familiar for many Filipinos while offering others a window into traditions they may not have known existed.

Music as Emotional Anchor

The soundtrack of Forgotten Island plays an integral role in anchoring these emotions. Soberano and H.E.R. didn't just lend their voices to the film—they were instrumental in shaping its musical identity.

Angela Leus, senior vice president of Film Music at Universal Pictures, explained that the decision to involve H.E.R. wasn't scripted. "Everything needed to come from an organic place," she said. "But when H.E.R. saw the film, she was so inspired that she decided to write something—and she was even more inspired to bring in Liza."

For both actresses, this collaboration felt like a gift. "I just felt so honored and blessed to be part of it," Soberano admits. "What did I do in my life to deserve this?"

Love Letters to Home

The song they created together became more than just a soundtrack—it was a love letter to the Philippines, a visual and emotional journey back home. The music video, shot in Manila, was filmed like a travel vlog, continuing that sense of connection.

"I'm just grateful to be in this process, especially with Liza," H.E.R. says. "I love these characters. I love this film. I'm forever grateful for it."

This emotional journey mirrors the film itself: a magical island where memories are tangible and relationships are tested by distance—but never truly broken.

A New Kind of Animated Storytelling

As we continue to see more diverse voices behind animated films, Forgotten Island stands out as a prime example of how animation can carry complex emotional narratives without losing its charm or appeal. It's not just a film for kids—it's one that adults will find deeply moving.

The film asks us to think about what we're willing to sacrifice for those we love, and how far we'll go to preserve the bonds that matter most. In a world where connection feels increasingly fragile, Forgotten Island reminds us of the enduring power of friendship.

Final Thoughts

This isn't just another animated feature with eye-catching visuals and catchy songs. It's a carefully crafted exploration of family, cultural identity, and what it means to be part of something bigger than ourselves. With Liza Soberano and H.E.R. leading the charge, Forgotten Island proves that the best stories aren't always about escaping reality—they're about embracing it, with all its beauty and heartbreak.

If you're looking for an animated film that speaks to your soul, this one deserves a place on your watchlist. Because sometimes, the most magical journey is the one that brings us back to where we belong.