Tricia Serdon, a Filipino Canadian, always sought a princess in Disney movies who resembled her but never found one until she came across “Forgotten Island.” The film, released by Dreamworks Animation on Sept. 25, is a groundbreaking Hollywood animated feature that celebrates Filipino culture and mythology. It tells the story of childhood friends Jo and Raissa, whose paths diverge when Raissa moves to the U.S. for college while Jo remains in the Philippines.
Set in the fantasy world of Nakali, inspired by centuries-old Filipino folklore, the film showcases mythical creatures like the manananggal and kapre. Serdon, who was raised in the Philippines, found the film’s depiction of these creatures both thrilling and deeply personal. The co-directors, Januel Mercado and Joel Crawford, aimed to highlight the rich Filipino mythology, using creatures like the weredog as metaphors for the characters’ emotional journeys.
Aside from the magical elements, “Forgotten Island” captures the essence of Filipino family life, portraying scenes like lively parties and familial bonds. The film’s commitment to representation extends beyond the screen, with a voice cast featuring prominent Filipino talents like H.E.R., Liza Soberano, and Lea Salonga. The filmmakers hope that the movie will inspire more Filipino stories and creators to reach global audiences.
Serdon, reflecting on her childhood desire for representation in Disney princesses, envisions a future where young Filipinos can easily find characters they resonate with. “Forgotten Island” not only provides Filipino audiences with on-screen representation but also paves the way for more Filipino stories to be told without delay.
