Forgotten Island: DreamWorks Animation's Latest Effort Hailed as Best in a Decade

DreamWorks Animation's recent film, "Forgotten Island," is garnering significant praise, with critics calling it the studio's best animated feature in over a decade. The movie stands out from the studio's recent output, which has largely focused on adaptations of children's books, TV series, and previous DreamWorks properties.

Unlike many of its contemporaries, "Forgotten Island" is an original story, moving away from the established intellectual property that has characterized much of DreamWorks' recent lineup, which includes films like "Dog Man," "The Bad Guys 2," a live-action "How to Train Your Dragon," and "Gabby's Dollhouse." These projects, while potentially successful with younger audiences, are often perceived as products of the streaming era, prioritizing existing brands.

"Forgotten Island" marks a departure in DreamWorks' visual style, a shift that has been building in recent films such as "The Bad Guys," "Puss in Boots: The Last Wish," and "The Wild Robot." The new film adopts a more manic and colorful aesthetic, characterized by visual accents and an iconography reminiscent of friendship bracelets. This style is influenced by its setting in the Philippines and a potential nod to the 1990s, evident in its music and cultural references.

The film centers on Raissa (Liza Soberano) and Jo (H.E.R.), lifelong best friends whose bond is tested as Raissa prepares to go to college in the United States. On their last night together, they discover a portal to the mythical island of Nakali. The narrative follows their quest to return home after a night spent on the island with no memory of their adventures, drawing comparisons to films like "The Hangover" combined with a "Superbad" or "Booksmart" dynamic, all rendered in a hyperpop music video style.

Directors Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado employ a visual sensibility that incorporates elements of video games, sometimes leading to plotlines that feel mission-based. Despite this, the film's emotional core is strong. Supporting characters, including a "were-dog" voiced by Dave Franco, add humor and charm, though their rapid integration into the main characters' journey is noted.

"Forgotten Island" is described as a Young Adult story that also incorporates elements appealing to younger children. It explores themes of intense adolescent friendships and the inevitable changes that life brings. While it may not consistently achieve the emotional resonance of Pixar's most impactful moments, the film manages to convey pathos effectively, particularly through its visual maximalism. Critics emphasize that the film's distinct visuals make it a worthy theatrical experience, setting it apart from many of DreamWorks' recent, more streaming-centric releases.