Forgotten Island Turns Filipino Folklore Into a DreamWorks Adventure at SM Cinema

Some stories stay with us because they were part of our childhood.

They are the tales told by grandparents, the creatures mentioned in bedtime stories, and the bits of folklore passed around at family gatherings. Now, many of those familiar ideas are making their way to the big screen in a new animated adventure.

DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island arrives at SM Cinema nationwide on September 23, 2026, bringing a colorful world inspired by Philippine mythology to Filipino audiences.

For moviegoers, it is more than the arrival of a new animated film. It is a chance to see elements of Filipino folklore reimagined through a major global animation production, complete with an all-star cast and a story built around friendship, family, memories, and change.

When Two Best Friends Find Themselves on a Mysterious Island

The story begins with Jo and Raissa, two lifelong best friends facing what should have been an ordinary final night together.

Instead, their plans take a dramatic turn when they are transported to Nakali, a mysterious island unlike anything they have known.

The island is filled with fantastical creatures inspired by Filipino folklore, turning their unexpected trip into an extraordinary adventure. But getting home will not be as simple as finding a way off the island.

Along the way, Jo and Raissa must confront a difficult choice that could affect the memories connecting them and ultimately change their friendship forever.

That emotional element gives Forgotten Island a story that reaches beyond fantasy. Beneath the mythical creatures and spectacular animation is a familiar story about growing up, holding on to important relationships, and realizing that some chapters of life can change before we are ready for them to.

A DreamWorks Film With a Filipino Heart

Forgotten Island holds a special place in DreamWorks Animation's lineup as the studio's first animated feature centered on Philippine mythology and culture.

The fictional world of Nakali draws inspiration from Filipino folklore and mythical creatures, introducing these cultural influences to audiences around the world.

For Filipinos, however, there is an added layer of meaning.

The stories and cultural references that helped shape the film come from a tradition that many Filipino families know well: sharing stories from one generation to another.

That connection makes the film's Philippine release feel especially fitting.

The Philippines Gets the First Big Stop

The excitement surrounding Forgotten Island will also reach beyond movie theaters.

The Philippines will serve as the first stop of the Tayo Na! tour, with SM Mall of Asia hosting the first major fan stop for the film's cast and filmmakers in the country that inspired its story.

Fans will have the opportunity to get closer to the people who helped bring the animated adventure to life, including Liza Soberano, H.E.R., Joel Crawford, Januel Mercado, and Mark Swift.

The Philippine stop is also a celebration of the Filipino culture, families, and communities that helped shape the film.

A Cast Filled With Filipino Talent

The Filipino presence in Forgotten Island is just as strong behind the microphones.

H.E.R. voices Jo, while Liza Soberano takes on the role of Raissa.

They are joined by a remarkable ensemble featuring Lea Salonga, Dolly de Leon, Manny Jacinto, Jo Koy, and Amielynn Abellera.

The film's creative team also includes Filipino-American filmmaker Januel Mercado, who co-writes and co-directs the movie with Joel Crawford, alongside producer Mark Swift.

For a story inspired by Filipino folklore, having Filipino and Filipino-American talent involved in both the cast and creative team adds another meaningful layer to the production.

See Nakali on the Big Screen at SM Cinema

A world filled with mythical creatures, colorful environments, and larger-than-life adventure is made for the cinema.

At SM Cinema, audiences can choose how they want to watch Forgotten Island.

Those looking for a more comfortable and premium setting can opt for Director’s Club, while moviegoers who want an expanded visual presentation can watch the film in ScreenX at select branches.

ScreenX takes the action beyond the traditional front-facing screen, giving audiences a wider field of view and a more immersive way to watch the adventure unfold.

For families, friends, and fans simply looking forward to seeing the film, SM Cinema's nationwide locations also make it easier to include Forgotten Island in a weekend movie trip.

Make It a Filipino Movie Day

Going to the movies does not have to end when the credits roll.

With SM Cinema located inside many of the country's favorite SM malls, moviegoers can easily turn a screening into a full day with family or friends.

Catch Forgotten Island, grab something to eat, shop around, meet up with friends, or simply spend time together before heading home.

In that sense, the film feels right at home at SM Cinema. Its story is rooted in family, friendship, and shared memories, while the cinema experience gives audiences a place to share those moments together.

A New Adventure With Familiar Roots

Forgotten Island may take audiences to a fictional island filled with mythical creatures, but the ideas at the heart of the story are surprisingly familiar.

It is about friendship.

It is about family.

It is about the memories we carry with us.

And it is about what happens when growing up means facing changes we never expected.

For Filipino audiences, there is something particularly meaningful about seeing those themes wrapped in a world influenced by the folklore and stories that have long been part of Filipino culture.

Starting September 23, 2026, Forgotten Island brings that world to the big screen at SM Cinema branches nationwide.

For an even bigger and more immersive movie outing, Director’s Club and ScreenX will be available at select branches.

Check the latest screening schedules and book your tickets through the SM Cinema website or app, then get ready to step into Nakali.