DreamWorks Unveils "Forgotten Island" Animated Film

DreamWorks Animation has revealed its latest project, an original animated feature titled "Forgotten Island," slated for release on September 25, 2026, according to Deadline.

The film is directed and written by Joel Crawford and Hanuel Mercado, the creative duo behind the critically acclaimed "Puss in Boots: The Last Wish." That 2022 hit earned nominations for an Academy Award, BAFTA, and Golden Globe, setting high expectations for their new collaboration.

While the plot remains under wraps, "Forgotten Island" is described as a lively adventure-comedy centered on a group of partygoers who find themselves on a long-lost magical island steeped in Philippine mythology.

Cartoon Brew notes that original stories are a rarity for DreamWorks, a studio known for leaning on established franchises or literary adaptations. The only exception in the past 15 years was 2023’s "Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken," which failed to resonate at the box office.

In contrast, DreamWorks’ recent adaptation of Peter Brown’s "The Wild Robot" proved a resounding success. With a budget of $78 million, it grossed $333 million worldwide, secured three Oscar nominations, and dominated the Annie Awards with nine wins, underscoring the studio’s knack for impactful storytelling.