Filipino Canadian Tricia Serdon, residing in Toronto, had a childhood void of Disney princesses resembling her until she discovered “Forgotten Island.” This animated feature, a Dreamworks Animation production released on Sept. 25, delves into Filipino culture and mythology, starring Jo and Raissa as childhood friends whose paths diverge when Raissa heads to the U.S. for college while Jo remains in the Philippines.
Navigating the pain of separation, the duo ventures into Nakali, a fictional realm filled with supernatural beings inspired by centuries-old Filipino folklore. Creatures like the manananggal, a vampiric entity that separates and flies at night, and the kapre, a forest-dwelling bearded giant, come to life on screen, resonating deeply with Serdon, who grew up with these mythical tales.
Co-directed by Januel Mercado and Joel Crawford, the film uses these creatures as metaphors for emotional struggles, exemplified by the weredog symbolizing adolescence and identity quest. Despite only scratching the surface of Filipino lore, the filmmakers intend to inspire global audiences to explore more Filipino narratives and encourage Filipino creators to share their interpretations.
Apart from the magical elements, “Forgotten Island” captures the essence of Filipino family life, showcasing scenes of familial gatherings, karaoke sessions, and light-hearted banter. This portrayal resonated with Serdon, who found familiarity and connection in the film’s depiction of friendship and cultural nuances.
The commitment to representation extended off-screen as well, with a predominantly Filipino voice cast and involvement of Manila-based Snipple Animation for 2D-animated flashbacks. The film’s aim is not just to reflect Filipino audiences on screen but also to pave the way for a more diverse and inclusive storytelling landscape.
Serdon hopes the movie will inspire future generations of Filipinos to embrace their culture without struggle, envisioning a future where Filipino stories are mainstream and readily accessible. “Forgotten Island” signifies a shift towards authentic representation and storytelling, leaving a lasting impact on Filipino audiences worldwide.