DreamWorks Is Bringing Filipino Mythology to the Big Screen

(SPOT.ph) Philippine mythology is finally making its way to Hollywood, with none other than DreamWorks Animation at the helm.

According to Deadline, the new animated feature Forgotten Island is a “broad party comedy adventure” that takes audiences to a long-lost, magical island filled with mythical creatures from Philippine culture. 

The film is scheduled to hit cinemas on September 25, 2026.

Also read: 10 Great Reads About Philippine Mythology

What we know about Forgotten Island so far

Although the specific plot details remain under wraps, the film marks a rare moment for Filipino mythology to be featured on a global platform—and it’s being led by someone who actually knows the culture.

Forgotten Island will be written and directed by Filipino-American filmmaker Januel Mercado, who previously co-directed Puss in Boots: The Last Wish. This will be his solo directorial debut, alongside veteran DreamWorks collaborator Joel Crawford, with production by Oscar, BAFTA, and Golden Globe nominee Mark Swift.

Before stepping into a directorial role, Mercado worked as a story artist on Kung Fu Panda 2, Penguins of Madagascar, The Lego Ninjago Movie, and The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part.

There’s no word yet on who’s in the cast or which exact legends the film will pull from, but with mythology as its focus, it wouldn’t be surprising if it includes iconic Filipino creatures like the kapre, tikbalang, or manananggal. Perhaps a glimpse of the more obscure bakunawa, too?

Of course, there’s also the possibility that the magical island could actually be or based on Biringan City—the mythical “invisible city” that is said to exist between Gandara, Tarangnan, and Pagsanghan in Samar. According to local folklore, Biringan is home to engkantos, who can shape-shift to appear human. Sounds like prime material for a DreamWorks movie, if you ask us.

Also read: This Upcoming 2D Romantic Thriller Is Set in a “Dark Fantasy Philippines”