Universal Pictures India brings an animation film that tells a story of friendship to theatres across the country on September 25, Friday. Titled Forgotten Island, the film is directed by BAFTA and Oscar-nominated filmmaker Joel Crawford alongside Januel P Mercado. The lead voice cast includes Academy Award and Grammy-winning singer-songwriter H.E.R. as well as Liza Soberano in the roles of two high school graduates. It also stars Emmy-nominated actor Jenny Slate, BAFTA nominee Dolly de Leon, Manny Jacinto, Emmy winner Ronny Chieng, and Jo Koy.

Produced by BAFTA and Academy Award nominee Mark Swift, known for backing Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, the film follows Raissa and Jo, who have been close friends ever since their grade school days and are about to set off on separate paths in life. During a celebration of their final night together, they come across a portal which takes them to Nakali, a fantastical island full of mythological and magical creatures, about whom they have heard stories in childhood from their families with roots in the Philippines. When the two explore the island, their bond becomes a central point of attraction in an extraordinary ride.

While developing the screenplay, Mercado and Crawford looked to put together elements of mystery, comedy, fantasy, and coming-of-age cinema without taking away the edgy aspects that caused each element to be distinct. The 1990s setting is decidedly intentional; as director Mercado puts it, "It was a time before social media, smartphones and when friendships often felt more fragile and maintaining friendships took real effort.” On the other hand, Crawford adds, “The 90’s were our formative years, and those memories we all make during those times shape us into who we eventually become."