DreamWorks Forgotten Island (2026) Deserves More Attention | Film Review
Forgotten Island is one of those rare films that left me completely inconsolable, in awe of its sentiment, the message and the raw originality. Forgotten Island at its core is a film about memory. How memories bond us, how our experiences live with us and make us who we are. The characters are instantly lovable and relatable, particularly Jo, who is the epitome of messy and chaotic but undeniably unapologetically perfect.
Am I confident enough to say this is one of my favourite animated films I’ve ever seen? Yes, I am. Forgotten Island is bursting at the seems with originality and boldness. The film is a beautiful rendition of memories and friendship, you are transported into a world of fantastical creatures and Filipino folklore, a world that exceeds all expectations and boundaries.
As a child, I would have adored Jo and Raissa’s friendship and journey but as an adult the film had a completely unique impact on me. It left me feeling lucky to have friendships, lucky to have memories and lucky to have experiences in life that make me smile. Forgotten Island build on the idea of feeling left behind and stepping up for the people you love, Jo in particular is a character who doesn’t let obstacles stand in her way, no matter how tough. Forgotten Island is a love letter to Filipino culture, folklore, companionship, memories but above all else, the art of animation itself.
The creators of Forgotten Island credit several classic animation styles as inspiration for their work and you can feel the passion bursting off the screen. This is a film about love made with love. Forgotten Island will leave you feeling whole, you may wipe away a fe tears but ultimately you will be left with a huge smile on your face and a reminder that nothing can break the unbreakable bond of friendship.
Go watch my Interview with the directors of 'Forgotten Island' on Youtube
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Overall, Forgotten Island is a gem of animation. You may look at the posters and the trailer and be unsure what to think but let me think for you when I say you shouldn’t miss this film. You shouldn’t miss the opportunity to watch it on the big screen, watch those colours and characters bursting out of the screen. Also, Forgotten Island is just as much a film for adults as it is for children, maybe more so. It’s a bold feature with a hilarious storyline tethered to heartbreak, the characters are beautifully fleshed out and feel tangible and relatable.
If you value the art of animation and original storytelling, then I think you may have found your newest obsession. I adored Forgotten Island and I genuinely cannot wait to watch it again. It’s silly, it has emotional depth but most of all, it’s utterly unique.
Probe Points
★★★★.5
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