More than a movie: Big-screen representation on ‘Forgotten Island’ that one community will remember

On Friday, DreamWorks' latest animated feature "Forgotten Island" debuted in theaters across the globe, carrying significant cultural meaning for Filipinos worldwide. Toronto resident Andrea Custodio, a Filipino-Canadian, noted the profound impact of seeing her culture celebrated on the big screen for the first time, surrounded by animated Filipino women as lead characters.

The enchanting film features Filipino folklore and symbols, like the sun and jeepney, resonating with non-Filipinos as well. Director DreamWorks, Universal Pictures, and Canada-based film enthusiasts’ group Sine Institute created a magical adventure set in the Philippines, following lifelong friends Raissa and Jo, on their journey to find the mythical island of 'Nakali', a term signifying 'forgotten' in English.

Critics have praised the film's colorful portrayal of Filipino mythology, such as the shape-shifting supernatural being 'Aswangs'. Sine Institute's vice president, Rosary Escano, highlighted the importance of the release for Toronto's Filipino community, as it sparks interest in learning about identity, history, and mythology. Voice actors Liza Soberano, H.E.R., Lea Salonga, Dave Franco, Jenny Slate, and Manny Jacinto bring the characters to life, adding to the film's appeal.

With a 100 per cent score rating on Rotten Tomatoes, "Forgotten Island" promises to be a hit, with Escano expressing that the most significant reviews are already in, as they felt seen by the film's representation.