AceShowbiz - DreamWorks Animation has released the first trailer for its upcoming film, Forgotten Island, the studio’s only movie scheduled for release in 2026. Following a busy 2025 where DreamWorks launched titles like Dog Man, the live-action How to Train Your Dragon remake, The Bad Guys 2, and Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie, Forgotten Island stands out as an original story not based on any existing intellectual property. This is the first original feature from the studio since Orion and the Dark debuted in 2024.

The newly debuted trailer introduces audiences to Jo and Raissa, two high school best friends who embark on a journey to a magical place called Nakali, also known as the Forgotten Island. The story centers on their race against time to save themselves before the memories of their friendship slip away. The trailer features the iconic Simple Minds track “Don’t You (Forget About Me),” setting a nostalgic tone that complements the film’s themes of friendship and memory.

The trailer opens in 1990, showing how Jo and Raissa first became friends outside the principal’s office. Both girls had never experienced having a best friend before, but their bond quickly deepens as they promise to stay close forever through life’s ups and downs. Fast forward to their senior year, tensions rise as Jo and Raissa clash over their future aspirations. Jo encourages Raissa to forge her own path rather than follow her parents’ expectations. While reminiscing about their cherished memories, fantastical forces suddenly whisk them away to Nakali.

Arriving on the island’s beach, they encounter a giant bird and realize they are in a perilous place where “the longer you stay, the more memories you lose.” This revelation sparks fear as they comprehend the risk of forgetting each other entirely. Determined to find a way back home, the friends begin their quest amid the island’s mysterious dangers. The trailer ends on an emotional note with Raissa having a panic attack, which Jo helps calm by humorously quoting the 2000 hit “Who Let the Dogs Out” by Baha Men, helping Raissa regain composure and focus on devising a plan to escape.

Forgotten Island is co-directed and co-written by Joel Crawford, known for his work on Puss in Boots: The Last Wish. Crawford also co-wrote the film with Januel Mercado. Mark Swift serves as the producer. Crawford’s previous DreamWorks credits include directing The Croods: A New Age and story artist work on Kung Fu Panda, Shrek Forever After, and Trolls, showcasing his extensive experience within the studio.

The film’s voice cast features H.E.R. as Jo and Liza Soberano as Raissa, bringing fresh talent to the leads. Supporting voices include Dave Franco, Lea Salonga, Jenny Slate, Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, and Ronny Chieng, rounding out an impressive ensemble.

Forgotten Island is slated for theatrical release on Friday, September 25, 2026. This film promises to deliver a heartfelt adventure infused with fantasy, exploring the powerful themes of friendship, memory, and self-discovery. Fans of DreamWorks Animation and original animated storytelling alike will want to keep an eye on this new title as its release date approaches.