DreamWorks’ Forgotten Island arrives in theaters September 25, bringing a colorful animated adventure inspired by Filipino folklore. But with monsters, peril and emotional themes alongside its friendship story, parents may want to know what they’re getting before buying tickets.
The movie follows best friends Jo and Raissa, two teenagers facing a major change as Raissa prepares to leave the Philippines for college. On their final night together, the girls discover a mysterious portal that transports them to Nakali, a magical island filled with creatures from Filipino mythology.
Once there, Jo and Raissa discover that escaping the island could come at a huge cost: their shared memories are at risk. The adventure becomes a race to get home while preserving the friendship that has defined their lives.
USA Today describes the film as a fantasy adventure centered on “monsters and memories,” while also highlighting its unusual focus on teenage best friends approaching adulthood. That combination gives Forgotten Island a coming-of-age story beneath its fantastical exterior.
What Are Critics Saying About Forgotten Island?
The critical response has been notably positive in some quarters, particularly toward the movie’s energy, humor and cultural influences. Mashable called it “a rollicking, imaginative adventure” and praised its celebration of friendship and Filipino culture.
The Guardian takes a considerably different view, criticizing the movie’s relentless pace and describing it as “frantically and even stroboscopically over-energised.” The review argues that the film rarely gives its characters enough quiet space to develop.
That split may be useful information for parents. Families looking for a fast-moving animated adventure may appreciate the movie’s visual energy, while viewers who prefer quieter storytelling may find the constant activity overwhelming.
Is Forgotten Island Appropriate for Kids?
Forgotten Island is rated PG for scary action, some violence, language, rude humor, thematic elements and brief tobacco imagery. The film runs approximately 109 minutes, making it a feature-length commitment for younger viewers.
Parents should also know that the movie includes frightening mythical creatures and peril, including the intimidating Manananggal. Some sequences may be intense for particularly sensitive or younger children.
The film is likely to appeal most to older elementary-school kids, tweens and teens, particularly children comfortable with fantasy scares. Younger kids who are easily frightened by monsters or intense action may need more parental guidance, even though the movie is officially rated PG.
