Filipino Canadian Tricia Serdon, residing in Toronto, had a childhood void of Disney princesses resembling her until “Forgotten Island” came along. Launched by Dreamworks Animation on Sept. 25, this animated feature marks a significant milestone as the first Hollywood film to spotlight Filipino culture and mythology. The narrative follows childhood friends Jo and Raissa, diverging paths as Raissa leaves the Philippines for college in the U.S. while Jo remains in their homeland.
Set in Nakali, a fantasy realm teeming with supernatural beings inspired by Filipino folklore, the film weaves ancient tales into a creative reimagining. Characters encounter mythical creatures like the manananggal, a vampiric entity that flies with its upper body detached, and the kapre, a forest-dwelling giant with a dark, bearded appearance. Serdon, hailing from the Philippines, found the portrayal of these creatures on screen deeply personal and impressive.
Co-directors Januel Mercado and Joel Crawford aimed to showcase Filipino culture for years, highlighting the rich mythology often overlooked in mainstream cinema. Creatures in the film symbolize emotional struggles, with the weredog serving as a metaphor for identity exploration in adolescence. The film’s depiction of family life resonates with the familiar rhythms of Filipino gatherings, emphasizing humor, music, and food over hardship.
With a star-studded Filipino cast and a commitment to on-screen representation, “Forgotten Island” extends its celebration of Filipino heritage behind the scenes as well. The filmmakers hope the movie inspires a broader exploration of Filipino stories and encourages more creators to share their interpretations globally. The film’s focus on cultural authenticity and the universality of its storytelling aim to pave the way for future Filipino narratives to be told without delay.
Serdon, reminiscing about her quest for a relatable Disney character, envisions a future where young Filipinos can readily identify with characters like Raissa and Jo from “Forgotten Island.” The film’s impact lies not only in reflecting Filipino audiences on screen but also in paving the way for more diverse and authentic Filipino narratives to be embraced and celebrated.
