DreamWorks is gearing up for its next animated adventure, and this time, the studio is leaning hard into 90s nostalgia. Forgotten Island, the latest project from the directing duo behind Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, has just unveiled a dazzling new 4DX poster that promises a visual feast. The artwork, shared exclusively with Collider, spotlights the film's three main characters—Jo (voiced by H.E.R.), Raissa (Liza Soberano), and their new companion Raww (Dave Franco)—as they strike confident poses against a neon-soaked backdrop. With their colorful outfits and dynamic energy, they look ready to leap off the screen, a fitting tribute to the decade that inspires the film's aesthetic.
For those who missed the 2022 surprise hit Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, directors Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado proved they could take a beloved franchise and elevate it with stunning animation and a surprisingly deep story. That film earned over $484 million worldwide and an Academy Award nomination, setting high expectations for their next outing. Now, with Forgotten Island, they're aiming to capture that same magic with an original tale that draws from Philippine mythology and their own friendship.
What Is 'Forgotten Island' About?
Set in the Philippines during the 1990s, the story follows Jo and Raissa, two lifelong friends who promise to stay close forever. But their bond is put to the test when Raissa prepares to move to the U.S. for college. Before she leaves, the pair are mysteriously transported to Nakali, a fantastical island lost to time. There, they discover that the only way to return home is to sacrifice all memories of their friendship. It's a whimsical and emotional journey filled with strange allies, formidable villains, and plenty of 90s references.
The directors have described their approach as "maximalist," drawing inspiration from a wide range of animation styles—from classic DreamWorks films to 90s anime. In a recent interview, Mercado explained, "We have this amazing display of traditional CG performances, as well as subtle acting that you've seen in DreamWorks' filmography, and we also have these pushed anime moments that now can be rendered in the 3D world." The result is a visual cocktail that pays homage to the era while pushing the boundaries of modern animation.
The voice cast is stacked with talent, including Manny Jacinto, Jenny Slate, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, Ronny Chieng, and Lea Salonga. The soundtrack will blend 80s and 90s influences with the Philippine music scene, featuring a new track by P-Pop group Bini titled "A Parallel Dimension."
Forgotten Island hits theaters on September 25, and if the new poster is any indication, it's going to be a visual treat. For fans of joyful fantasy movies, this is one to watch. And if you're curious about other fantasy films worth revisiting, this one might just join the list.
