Filipino Canadian Tricia Serdon, raised on Disney films, longed for a princess resembling her until she discovered “Forgotten Island.” Describing it as a tribute to Filipinos, Serdon, a marketing co-ordinator in Toronto, praises the film for spotlighting Filipino culture and mythology. Produced by Dreamworks Animation, the movie, released on Sept. 25, revolves around childhood friends Jo and Raissa, whose paths diverge as Raissa leaves the Philippines for college in the U.S. while Jo remains behind.
Set in a fictional world called Nakali, inspired by traditional Filipino folklore, the film weaves tales of supernatural creatures like the manananggal and kapre. Serdon, born in the Philippines, was thrilled to see these mythical beings come alive on screen, noting the film’s accuracy and personal significance. Co-directed by Januel Mercado, a Filipino American, and Joel Crawford, the movie aims to celebrate Filipino culture’s rich mythology, using creatures as metaphors for emotional struggles.
“Forgotten Island” not only captures the essence of Filipino family life but also features a voice cast comprising prominent Filipino talents like H.E.R., Lea Salonga, Manny Jacinto, and Jo Koy. The filmmakers hope the movie will inspire more Filipino stories and encourage Filipino creators to share their narratives globally. Through its authentic portrayal of Filipino culture, the film resonates universally, touching on themes of friendship, family, and identity.
Representing diversity both on and off-screen, “Forgotten Island” showcases the importance of authentic storytelling and cultural representation. As the movie’s impact reverberates, Serdon envisions a future where young Filipinos can readily find characters like Jo and Raissa to admire, fostering a cultural shift in the realm of storytelling.