LOS ANGELES, USA — DreamWorks Animation’s upcoming feature film “Forgotten Island” has achieved a debut score of 100% on review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, buoyed by unanimous critical praise just ahead of its theatrical rollout.
The film’s perfect rating reflects feedback from an initial batch of 28 critic reviews, a score that may fluctuate as additional write-ups are submitted.
Reviewers praised the project’s visual artistry and cultural authenticity:
- The Sydney Morning Herald: Critic Karl Quinn handed the movie four out of five stars, commending the quality of the animation alongside its thoughtful narrative framing and respect for Filipino cultural heritage.
- The Movie Buff: Paul Emmanuel Enicola centered his praise on the core dynamic between primary characters Jo and Raissa, specifically how the story explores a deep friendship strained by life transitions.
- Fortress of Solitude: Casey Chong pointed to the film’s anime-influenced aesthetics and vocal cast performances, though noting that certain narrative beats felt slightly fast-paced.
- DiscussingFilm: Andrew Salazar highlighted the blending of 2D anime styles with a fantasy narrative that prominently anchors Filipino folklore at its core.
The fantasy-adventure narrative centers on lifelong friends Jo and Raissa, who are unexpectedly whisked away to Nakali, a mythical island inhabited by legendary creatures from Filipino folklore. The duo faces a heavy dilemma upon learning that leaving the realm requires sacrificing their personal memories of one another.
Grammy-winning artist H.E.R. lends her voice to Jo, while actress Liza Soberano plays Raissa. The ensemble voice cast also features Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, Lea Salonga, Dave Franco, and Jenny Slate.
The project is helmed by directors Joel Crawford and Januel P. Mercado, re-teaming after their success on “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.” The filmmakers drew inspiration for Jo and Raissa’s bond from real-life relationships, including Crawford’s wife, Kathy, and Mercado’s sister, Jo.
”Forgotten Island” premieres in Philippine theaters on September 23 before making its United States debut on September 25.