Traditional Filipino folklore, including legendary creatures like the manananggal—a being capable of splitting its body—and the tiyanak, which mimics the appearance of an infant, is reaching a wider international audience. These mythological figures are central to the plot of the new DreamWorks animated film, 'Forgotten Island.'

The film premiered in the Philippines on Wednesday, followed by a release in the United States two days later. Industry observers note that the production is notable for being the first major Hollywood project to prominently showcase Filipino culture and mythology on a global scale. By integrating these specific cultural elements into a mainstream animated format, the film brings stories that were previously localized to the Philippines into the broader sphere of global entertainment. While the film focuses on these mythological entities, it also serves as a cultural touchstone for the Filipino diaspora and provides international viewers with an introduction to the country's rich oral traditions.