Tricia Serdon, a Filipino Canadian marketing co-ordinator in Toronto, had always yearned to see a Disney princess who resembled her. However, it wasn’t until the release of “Forgotten Island” that she felt that representation.
Produced by Dreamworks Animation and premiered on Sept. 25, “Forgotten Island” is a groundbreaking Hollywood animated film that spotlights Filipino culture and mythology. The storyline revolves around Jo and Raissa, childhood friends whose lives take different paths when Raissa leaves the Philippines for college in the U.S., while Jo stays back.
The film introduces Nakali, a fantasy realm inhabited by supernatural beings inspired by centuries-old Filipino folklore. The name “Nakali” is derived from the Tagalog word “nakalimutan,” meaning “forgotten.”
Although the film draws from ancient tales, it presents a fresh interpretation rather than a direct adaptation. Creatures like the manananggal, a vampiric being that separates its upper body to fly at night, and the kapre, a dark forest-dwelling giant, come to life on screen.
Serdon, a Philippines native, expressed her delight at seeing these familiar creatures portrayed authentically in the movie. She found the attention to detail impressive and a personal connection to her cultural roots.
The co-directors, Januel Mercado and Joel Crawford, longed to showcase Filipino culture in a cinematic narrative, emphasizing the rich folklore of the Philippines. They used these mythical creatures as metaphors for the characters’ emotional journeys, such as the weredog symbolizing the struggles of adolescence and identity.
“Familiar rhythms of family life” are also depicted in the film, capturing the essence of Filipino gatherings and traditions. The portrayal of a typical Filipino party scene resonated deeply with viewers, offering a refreshing portrayal of Filipino culture beyond the stereotypes of hardship.
The commitment to representation extended to the voice cast, featuring prominent Filipino talents like H.E.R., Liza Soberano, Lea Salonga, Manny Jacinto, and Jo Koy. Manila-based Snipple Animation contributed to the 2D-animated flashbacks, enhancing the cultural authenticity.
The film’s message goes beyond mere on-screen representation, aiming to inspire Filipino audiences to embrace their heritage and encourage more Filipino creators to share their stories with the world. “Forgotten Island” not only reflects Filipino culture but also sets a precedent for future Filipino narratives to be told without delay.