The animated entertainment industry is gearing up for one of the most anticipated releases of 2026, with DreamWorks Animation preparing to bring Filipino folklore to international screens through “Forgotten Island.” This ambitious animated feature film represents a significant moment in Asian-focused storytelling, blending contemporary Hollywood talent with prominent Filipino voices to create a uniquely cultural experience.
The project draws inspiration from rich Philippine mythology and legends, combining the universal appeal of adventure storytelling with deeply rooted cultural narratives. Scheduled for theatrical release in September 2026, Forgotten Island has already generated considerable excitement among animation enthusiasts, cultural advocates, and families seeking representation-rich entertainment. The film’s star-studded voice cast represents a deliberate effort to bring authenticity and diverse perspectives to the narrative.
The movie tells the story of two best friends stranded on a mysterious island filled with mythological creatures and magical encounters. As details about the voice acting ensemble have emerged, industry observers have noted the thoughtful casting approach that prioritises both talented performers and cultural representation. Understanding the voice cast provides deeper insight into how filmmakers approach character development and storytelling in animated cinema.
Main Voice Cast & Lead Characters
H.E.R. as Jo
American singer and actress H.E.R. takes on the role of Jo, the primary protagonist driving the narrative of Forgotten Island. Jo serves as the emotional anchor of the story, a character whose journey explores themes of friendship, sacrifice, and cherished memories.
As the lead character, Jo experiences significant character development throughout the film. Her vocal performance carries the emotional weight of the story, particularly during pivotal moments where the film explores the tension between holding onto memories and making difficult life choices. Jo’s relationship with her best friend forms the central emotional core of the narrative, making the voice acting performance crucial to audience connection.
H.E.R.’s selection for this role demonstrates casting directors’ confidence in her ability to convey complex emotions through voice work. Her musical background provides additional depth to emotional scenes, as actors with singing experience often bring nuanced vocal control to animated performances.
Liza Soberano as Raissa
Filipino-American actress Liza Soberano brings her considerable talent to the character of Raissa, Jo’s best friend and co-lead in Forgotten Island. This casting choice represents significant Filipino representation in a major Hollywood animated production.
Raissa serves as the emotional counterbalance to Jo throughout the film. The relationship between these two characters drives much of the narrative tension and emotional resonance. Soberano’s performance captures the complexity of a long-standing friendship tested by extraordinary circumstances. Her character faces her own moral dilemmas and choices that profoundly impact the story’s progression.
The decision to cast Soberano reflects the filmmakers’ commitment to bringing authentic Filipino voices to characters integral to the storytelling experience, particularly given the film’s cultural foundation in Filipino folklore.
Supporting Cast & Their Characters
Dave Franco as Raww
Actor and comedian Dave Franco brings vocal talent to Raww, a fantastical creature known as a “were-dog.” This character combines comedic elements with genuine character depth, serving as both comic relief and loyal companion throughout the adventure.
Raww functions as the lighter presence in the ensemble cast, offering humorous moments that balance the film’s more emotional and dramatic sequences. Franco’s background in comedy positions him well for delivering witty dialogue and physical comedy through voice acting. Despite being a supporting character, Raww develops genuine emotional bonds with the protagonists, adding layers to what could have been a one-dimensional sidekick role.
The character’s design and personality blend folklore-inspired creature elements with contemporary comedic sensibilities, making the character accessible to modern audiences while maintaining cultural authenticity.
Lea Salonga as The Dreaded Manananggal
Iconic Filipino singer and Broadway veteran Lea Salonga takes on the role of The Dreaded Manananggal, the film’s primary antagonist. This casting choice carries particular significance for Philippine cinema and international representation of Filipino talent.
The Manananggal draws inspiration directly from Filipino mythology, representing one of the most feared creatures in traditional folklore. This being exhibits terrifying characteristics rooted in ancient legends, transformed into cinematic form for contemporary audiences. Salonga’s powerful voice work brings menace, complexity, and unexpected depth to what could have been a one-dimensional villain.
Casting an internationally recognised Filipino artist in the antagonist role demonstrates respect for cultural source material and confidence in audience engagement with culturally specific storytelling. The Manananggal becomes more than a simple obstacle; through Salonga’s performance, the character gains emotional complexity and folkloric authenticity.
Extended Voice Cast & Ensemble Stars
The supporting ensemble includes several accomplished performers bringing additional talent and cultural flavour to Forgotten Island:
Manny Jacinto contributes his voice talent to an undisclosed character role, adding another Filipino face to the international production. Jacinto’s previous television work demonstrates his range as a performer.
Jenny Slate brings comedic sensibility to likely supporting or ensemble roles, known for her ability to infuse humour into animated characters.
Jo Koy, a Filipino-American comedian and actor, adds cultural flavour and comedic elements to the ensemble. His involvement signals the film’s commitment to Filipino-American representation.
Dolly de Leon, a critically acclaimed Filipino actress, brings dramatic weight and authenticity to her role. Her inclusion reflects casting decisions prioritising skilled performers capable of nuanced voice work.
Ronny Chieng contributes to the supporting voice cast, bringing his distinctive comedic timing to ensemble moments. His background in both comedy and dramatic roles ensures versatile contributions.
Amielynn Abellera rounds out the extensive ensemble, representing additional representation within the voice acting team.
Characters & Their Roles in the Story
Forgotten Island establishes an elaborate mythological world populated by creatures drawn from Filipino folklore. The film’s setting, Nakali Island, functions as a character itself—mysterious, dangerous, and enchanting in equal measure.
The central conflict revolves around the friendship between Jo and Raissa, tested by their stranded circumstances and the island’s supernatural inhabitants. Throughout their journey, these characters must decide whether to sacrifice precious memories to achieve their goals, raising philosophical questions about the nature of memory, sacrifice, and friendship.
The supporting characters exist within this framework, each contributing to the thematic exploration. The were-dog Raww represents loyalty and friendship in unexpected forms. The Manananggal embodies the consequences of abandoning one’s humanity and connections to loved ones. Other creatures and characters populate the mythological landscape, each carrying significance within the broader narrative structure.
Filipino Representation in the Cast
The voice cast composition represents a watershed moment for Filipino and Asian representation in major animated productions. Industry representation matters significantly for audiences seeking to see themselves reflected in mainstream entertainment.
The inclusion of prominent Filipino and Filipino-American performers—from Lea Salonga’s starring antagonist role to Liza Soberano’s co-lead position—demonstrates commitment beyond tokenism. These casting decisions place Filipino artists in positions of narrative importance and emotional weight.
Additionally, the film’s creative foundation in Filipino folklore positions Philippine culture not as exotic background detail but as central narrative substance. This approach respects source material while introducing global audiences to rich cultural traditions previously underrepresented in major animated releases.
Director & Creative Team
“Forgotten Island” emerges from the directorial vision of Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, with production by Mark Swift. This directing partnership combines different perspectives and creative approaches, contributing to the film’s cultural authenticity and contemporary storytelling sensibility.
The creative team’s engagement with Filipino folklore sources demonstrates research-based development rather than superficial cultural application. The collaboration between American studio resources and Filipino creative voices shapes the film’s unique identity.
Why This Cast Makes the Movie Special
The assembled voice cast elevates Forgotten Island beyond typical animated adventure fare. The combination of Hollywood recognition with authentic Filipino representation creates a rare opportunity for cross-cultural storytelling that respects both audiences.
The emotional storytelling potential emerges from casting actors capable of conveying complex feelings through voice alone. Without visual performance cues, voice actors must communicate character depth purely through vocal technique and emotional authenticity. The selected ensemble demonstrates this capability across various performance styles.
Furthermore, the diversity within the cast reflects the film’s thematic exploration of connection, friendship, and shared human experience across cultural boundaries. This authenticity strengthens narrative resonance for viewers from varying backgrounds.
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Conclusion
The voice cast of Forgotten Island represents a significant moment in animated cinema’s evolution toward meaningful representation and culturally grounded storytelling. From H.E.R.’s emotional lead performance and Liza Soberano’s co-starring role to Lea Salonga’s iconic antagonist portrayal and the supporting ensemble’s contributions, each performer brings essential skill and cultural authenticity to the project.
Indian audiences, accustomed to rich mythological narratives within their own cinema, will likely appreciate the film’s foundation in Filipino folklore and its respectful approach to cultural storytelling. The September 2026 theatrical release promises an animated feature offering both entertainment value and meaningful representation.
For viewers interested in voice acting excellence, Asian representation in Hollywood productions, or imaginative adventures rooted in authentic cultural sources, Forgotten Island presents a compelling prospect. As release dates approach, official trailers and promotional materials will provide additional insights into how these talented performers bring their characters to life.
Stay tuned for updates on this highly anticipated animated feature, and watch for official promotional releases that will showcase the voice cast’s performances in this culturally significant animated project.