More Filipino stars are officially joining the growing ensemble cast of “Forgotten Island,” Dreamworks Animation’s upcoming film inspired by Philippine folklore.
Among the newly announced additions is internationally acclaimed actress Dolly de Leon, who will star alongside Filipino-American comedy superstar Jo Koy, “Crazy Rich Asians” actor and Emmy winner Ronny Chieng, and Filipina-American actress Amielynn Abellera.
They join the lineup of all-star voice cast led by Grammy and Academy Award-winning R&B artist H.E.R. and rising Hollywood actress Liza Soberano, as well as Tony-winning Broadway icon Lea Salonga and Filipino-Canadian actor Manny Jacinto.
Emmy nominee Jenny Slate and Dave Franco are also part of the cast.
De Leon, who made history as the first Filipina to earn “Best Supporting Actress” nominations at both the BAFTA and the Golden Globe Awards, shared her excitement over the project on social media.
“Over the moon with excitement and Pinoy pride to share Forgotten Island with the world! Nakakaproud maging Pinoy,” she wrote on Instagram. “Thank you, DreamWorks, Joel Crawford, and Januel Mercado for putting our stories out there.”
Soberano also expressed pride in being part of the Filipino folklore–themed animated film. This marks her second voice acting stint following Netflix’s animated series “Trese”, where she voiced the titular role, Alexandra Trese, in its Filipino-dubbed version.
“I have so much love for the whole team behind this project. I’m so so so honored and proud to be a part of such an amazing film that showcases Filipino culture and talent!! Did everyone like the trailer?” she wrote following the release of the movie trailer on Wednesday.
The new original film is written and directed by Academy Award nominee Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado and is produced by Academy Award nominee Mark Swift, the filmmaking team behind “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish”.
Forgotten Island follows the story of two lifelong best friends, Jo (voiced by H.E.R.) and Raissa (voiced by Soberano), who stumble upon a mysterious portal that transports them to the fantastical island of Nakali, packed with magical and mythological creatures they grew up hearing stories about from their Filipino families.
When they discover that the memories of their entire friendship are the price for returning home, Jo and Raissa will race to find a way to leave the island before they forget each other forever.
Distributed by Universal Pictures, Forgotten Island is slated to premiere in Philippine cinemas on September 23, 2026.
