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Forgotten Island review: Two best friends fight to save their memories
23rd September, 2026 12:44 PM
Forgotten Island is a 2026 animated fantasy adventure comedy that follows two lifelong friends as they find themselves trapped in a magical world filled with creatures from Filipino folklore. The film centres on Jo and Raissa, who have been close since childhood but are preparing to take different paths after high school.
Their friendship becomes the heart of the story when a mysterious portal takes them to Nakali, a strange island filled with creatures they previously knew only from stories told by their families.
The film is set around a simple question: what would you do to keep the memories of your closest friend?
Jo and Raissa face a new life
At the beginning of the film, Jo and Raissa are celebrating their final night together before their lives change. Raissa is preparing to move away, while Jo is struggling with the idea of their friendship changing. The two have grown up together, so the thought of being separated is difficult for both of them.
Their plans take a completely different direction when they come across a mysterious portal. Instead of spending their final night together as planned, Jo and Raissa are transported to Nakali, a magical island that feels very different from the world they know.
The island is filled with creatures based on Filipino myths and stories, turning what was supposed to be a farewell between two friends into a fight for their way home.
The island has a dangerous secret
Nakali is not simply a strange place where Jo and Raissa have become trapped. The two soon discover that staying on the island comes with a serious cost. Their memories of each other begin to disappear the longer they remain there.
This makes their journey more difficult because getting home is no longer just about finding a way out. Jo and Raissa have to leave before they forget the friendship they are trying to protect.
The idea gives the film its emotional side. The two friends are not only fighting against the creatures and dangers around them but also against time.
Raww becomes an unexpected friend
During their journey, Jo and Raissa meet Raww, a well-meaning but clumsy weredog who becomes part of their small group. Raww brings humour into the story and helps the two friends as they try to understand the strange world around them.
Not every creature they meet is friendly, however. Among the biggest dangers is the Dreaded Manananggal, described as the most feared creature on the island. Jo and Raissa must face her while searching for a way to return home.
The different creatures also give the film a chance to bring Filipino folklore into an animated adventure. The island is filled with stories and characters that have been passed down through Filipino families.
Friendship remains at the centre
Although the film has magical creatures, action, and comedy, its main story remains about Jo and Raissa. Their friendship is tested because they are already facing a major change in their lives. Being trapped on Nakali makes that fear even greater.
The possibility of forgetting one another forces them to think about what their friendship means and how far they are willing to go to protect it.
This makes the film understandable even for viewers who may not be familiar with Filipino folklore. At its centre is a familiar experience: the fear of losing someone when life starts moving in different directions.
