“Forgotten Island” Review

Starring H.E.R. and Liza Soberano, “Forgotten Island” centers around the relationship between longtime friends Jo and Raissa in 1990s Philippines. After Raissa is accepted to a college in America, she and Jo celebrate their last night together when they are suddenly transported to Nakali, an otherworldly island full of mythical creatures. Having mysteriously lost their memories of their first few hours there, Jo and Raissa must re-explore the island to find out what happened and find a way back.

H.E.R. and Liza Soberano are incredibly entertaining as Jo and Raissa. Their different personalities complement one another, with their relationship maintaining a balance between Jo's more energetic identity and Raissa's more reserved one. Their bond is tested on the island, allowing Jo and Raissa to reflect on who they are and figure out how to move forward in their coming-of-age moment. Dave Franco as Raww adds plenty of comedy and heart to the story, as does the full cast of characters in this adventurous tale.

An animated spectacle, “Forgotten Island” blends art styles with collage elements symbolic of the time and Anime features prominent in the more imaginative scenes. Many will consider it worth the price of admission for the visuals alone. While the film can seem a bit chaotic at times, the story doesn’t waver. The visuals accentuate the emotions and provide amusing emphasis to the scenes.

A very entertaining film, “Forgotten Island” is a creative spectacle. Energetic from start to finish, the film rarely leaves the audience with a dull moment. 

8/10