DreamWorks’ “Forgotten Island,” set in the Philippines, opens in theatres Friday after an advance Toronto screening where Filipino-Canadian viewers described the film as rare animated representation of their culture.
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DreamWorks’ animated film Forgotten Island opens in theatres Friday after an advance screening in the Toronto area drew praise from Filipino-Canadian viewers who said it offered rare on-screen representation of their culture.
Andrea Custodio, who attended the Wednesday screening at Queensway Cinema, said it was the first time she had seen animated Filipino women portrayed as lead characters. She also pointed to cultural details including the sun and a jeepney.
The film is set in the Philippines and follows two lifelong best friends, Raissa and Jo, as they search for the island of Nakali. Organizers at the screening said the title draws from Tagalog and is connected to “nakalimutan,” meaning “forgotten” in English.
The Toronto event was organized by DreamWorks, Universal Pictures and the Canada-based film enthusiasts’ group Sine Institute. Attendees said the film prompted a strong emotional response, with one moviegoer saying they cried and laughed while watching it.
The film also draws on Filipino folklore, including Aswangs, described as shape-shifting supernatural beings in the Philippines.
Sine Institute vice president Rosary Escano said the release has particular meaning for Toronto’s Filipino community, especially for children interested in learning more about identity, mythology and history. He said the film’s humour and emotion could help young viewers feel more connected to their roots.
The voice cast includes Filipino actor Liza Soberano as Raissa, Oscar-winning Filipino-American singer-songwriter H.E.R. as Jo, and Lea Salonga, Dave Franco, Jenny Slate and Filipino-Canadian Manny Jacinto.
Sine Institute president Michaelangelo Masangkay said he expects the film to reach beyond the Filipino community. He also pointed to a 100 per cent critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes.
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