DreamWorks Animation is set to release its new film, Forgotten Island, on September 25. The studio has unveiled an exclusive image featuring key characters, including the newly revealed Prince Mermahn.
Forgotten Island follows two friends, Jo and Raissa, who are accidentally transported to a fantastical realm called Nakali. There, they encounter a variety of magical and mythological creatures drawn from Filipino folklore. To return home, they must embark on a journey that risks erasing their memories of their friendship. The official synopsis states that Jo and Raissa will race to find a way to leave the island before they forget each other forever.
Prince Mermahn, voiced by Kevin McCann, is introduced as the heir to the Pearl Throne and a wielder of a trident sword named Tidebreaker. He is described by co-directors Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado as a shallow, self-absorbed merman seeking validation who joins Jo and Raissa's group. McCann's voice performance was initially a temporary placeholder during production but was so compelling that the filmmakers decided to keep him for the final film.
Crawford, who previously directed Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, discussed the animation style for Forgotten Island. He and co-director Januel Mercado aimed to push animation boundaries further by incorporating more anime references and exploring 2D animation for side stories. The creation of the new world, Nakali, also allowed for experimentation with camera work and lighting design, with the goal of immersing the audience in a 90s aesthetic.
The film features an ensemble cast including HER as Jo, Liza Soberano as Raissa, Dave Franco as Raww, Manny Jacinto as Bungi, Jenny Slate as Batiba, Lea Salonga as The Dreaded Manananggal, Dolly de Leon as Lola Fatima, Jo Koy as Datu, Ronny Chieng as King Truffle Wuffle, and Kevin McCann as Prince Mermahn.
Forgotten Island is scheduled to premiere in theaters on September 25.