Tricia Serdon, a Filipino Canadian, grew up immersed in Disney movies, yearning to see a princess who resembled her. However, it wasn’t until the release of “Forgotten Island” that she finally found that representation. Produced by Dreamworks Animation and launched on Sept. 25, the film stands out as the first major Hollywood animated feature to spotlight Filipino culture and folklore.
The storyline revolves around two childhood friends, Jo and Raissa, whose paths diverge when Raissa leaves the Philippines for college in the U.S. As they grapple with the pain of separation, they are drawn into Nakali, a fantasy realm populated by supernatural beings inspired by centuries-old Filipino folklore. The term “Nakali” stems from the Tagalog word “nakalimutan,” meaning “forgotten.”
The film’s setting, although inspired by ancient tales, offers a fresh interpretation rather than a direct adaptation. Characters encounter mythical creatures like the manananggal, a vampiric being that splits in half and flies by night, and the kapre, a forest-dwelling giant with a dark, bearded appearance.
Serdon, hailing from the Philippines, was thrilled to witness these familiar creatures come to life on screen. She expressed admiration for the film’s accuracy, emphasizing the personal significance of seeing her cultural heritage portrayed authentically.
Co-directed by Januel Mercado, a Filipino American, and Joel Crawford, the movie aims to showcase the rich mythology of the Philippines. Through characters like the weredog, which symbolizes the challenges of adolescence and self-discovery, the film delves into emotional struggles with a touch of fantasy.
In addition to its mythical elements, “Forgotten Island” captures the essence of Filipino family life, portraying scenes like lively parties with karaoke and familial banter. Serdon, deeply moved by the film’s depiction of family dynamics and friendship, highlighted the relatability of the narrative to many Filipinos who have ventured abroad for new opportunities.
The commitment to representation extended off-screen as well, with a cast featuring prominent Filipino talents such as H.E.R., Liza Soberano, Lea Salonga, and Manny Jacinto. The filmmakers aimed to involve Filipino artists both behind the scenes and in front of the camera to authentically represent Filipino culture.
Reflecting on her own childhood quest for representation, Serdon expressed hope that future generations of young Filipinos will find themselves mirrored in media more readily. “Forgotten Island” not only offers Filipino audiences a long-awaited reflection but also paves the way for more diverse Filipino stories to reach global audiences sooner.