DreamWorks’ Critically Acclaimed ‘Forgotten Island’ Heads to Digital Release on October 27

Few animated films this year have received as much acclaim as DreamWorks Animation’s ‘Forgotten Island.’ This original adventure, inspired by Philippine mythology, has garnered rave reviews for its stunning visuals, heartfelt storytelling, and authentic representation of Filipino culture. Critics have even hailed it as one of the studio’s finest works. The film debuted in theaters on September 25, achieving a perfect Rotten Tomatoes score at one point and an A rating from audiences on CinemaScore.

The narrative follows best friends Jo (voiced by H.E.R.) and Raissa (Liza Soberano) as they discover a mysterious portal on their last night together before embarking on separate life journeys. This portal transports them to Nakali, a mythical island brimming with magical creatures from their Filipino heritage. However, the only way back home may require sacrificing their cherished memories of friendship. Directed by Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, the film features a talented cast including Dave Franco, Jenny Slate, Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, Ronny Chieng, and Lea Salonga.

Despite the overwhelming praise, the film’s theatrical performance has been challenging, prompting an announcement about its next chapter. ‘Forgotten Island’ will be available on digital platforms starting October 27, just over a month after its theatrical release, with a physical release on 4K UHD, Blu-ray, and DVD set for December 1.

‘FORGOTTEN ISLAND’ is officially already releasing digitally on October 27. The film grossed $60M on a $80M budget so far. https://t.co/E5oT3Hn8BI

— The Hollywood Handle (@HollywoodHandle) October 20, 2026

The financial figures shed light on the studio’s swift decision-making. The film opened to $12.8 million domestically and $20.6 million globally, landing it in fifth place and marking one of the lowest openings in DreamWorks Animation history. It fell short of projections that anticipated a $15-17 million domestic start, all while contending with an $80 million budget.

As of this week, the film has grossed approximately $60 million worldwide. Reports indicate that it needs at least $100 million more to break even theatrically, leading Universal to reduce its theater count from 3,548 to 2,898 in its third weekend. The film also faced competition from ‘Avengers: Endgame Encore,’ which reportedly earned around $86 million globally.

Some analysts have pointed to insufficient marketing as a reason for failing to engage casual audiences, even though critical and audience feedback suggests that those who did see it loved it.

In the Philippines, the film’s reception tells a different story. It opened to about ₱97.2 million, or roughly $1.5 million, which ABS-CBN reported as the largest opening for a DreamWorks Animation film in the country, as well as the biggest opening weekend for a non-franchise animated film there.

This positive reception holds significance beyond mere numbers. Reviewers have characterized the film as an opportunity for a culturally specific narrative to resonate with audiences beyond the communities it represents, and the enthusiastic response from Filipino viewers indicates that the film struck a chord.

For those who missed it in theaters, the digital release will include new commentary and 60 minutes of bonus features at participating retailers. Extras will feature a look at the film’s mythological creatures in ‘Creatures of Lore,’ along with a making-of featurette titled ‘Tayo Na! The Making of Forgotten Island.’

The timing of the digital release may also prove advantageous. It arrives ahead of a weekend devoid of major tentpole releases, providing it with a clear path before ‘The Cat in the Hat’ hits theaters on November 6. A Peacock premiere date has yet to be announced.

The studio remains optimistic. Universal insiders have informed TheWrap that DreamWorks films like ‘The Bad Guys 2’ and ‘The Wild Robot’ have seen strong premium video-on-demand revenue, and a similar outcome could be expected here. With a 95% critics score and a 96% audience score, word of mouth could serve as a powerful driver for family animation.

It wouldn’t be the first instance of a film that struggled in theaters finding its audience at home. For ‘Forgotten Island,’ the upcoming weeks could be crucial in determining whether it evolves into one of those overlooked gems or remains a missed opportunity. Regardless, the film’s reception highlights a significant appetite for narratives that draw from the folklore and culture of the Philippines.

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