The Island of Memories, previously announced under the French title The Forgotten Island, is slated for a theatrical release on October 21, 2026. This new feature from DreamWorks Animation, distributed by Universal Pictures, blends adventure, family-friendly comedy, and a story of friendship, following two young women as they confront the possibility of losing their shared memories.
The Island of Memories
Film | 2026
In theaters on October 21, 2026
Animation, adventure, comedy, family | Running time: 1h38
Directed by Joel Crawford and Januel P. Mercado | Written by Januel P. Mercado and Joel Crawford
Starring H.E.R., Liza Soberano, Dave Franco
Original title: Forgotten Island
Earlier announced French title: L’Île oubliée
Distributor: Universal Pictures International France
The film, whose original title is Forgotten Island, is written and directed by Joel Crawford and Januel P. Mercado, with Mark Swift producing. The project brings together part of the team from Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, Oscar-nominated, for an original tale set on the fantastical island of Nakali, inhabited by creatures inspired by Philippine mythological legends.
The plot follows Jo and Raissa, two best friends since childhood. After graduation, as they’re about to take different paths, they discover a mysterious portal that transports them to an island. To return home, they learn that an unexpected price might be asked of them: forgetting everything they’ve shared together.
This premise sets up a clear tension, blending a fantastical adventure with a meditation on memory, separation, and the bonds of friendship. The more Jo and Raissa try to leave Nakali behind, the more their relationship is endangered by the erasure of what they’ve shared.
The announced voice cast features H.E.R. and Liza Soberano in the roles of Jo and Raissa. The film also counts Dave Franco, who provides the voice of Raww, a werewolf-dog depicted as good-hearted but unlucky, as well as Lea Salonga in the role of the Manananggal, described as the island’s most dreaded creature. The ensemble also includes Jenny Slate, Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy and Ronny Chieng.
With its island setting, imagery drawn from Philippine legends, and a duo of characters on the cusp of adulthood, The Island of Memories targets a family audience. The advisory age or French classification has not yet been confirmed at this stage, but its positioning as animation, adventure, and family fare makes it a release to watch for parents this fall 2026.
The official trailer offers the first glimpse of the film, still shown under the title L’île oubliée on certain video platforms.
To lengthen your cinema experience, check out the October movie releases, the films to watch right now, and our selection of this year’s animated films.
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