Liza Soberano and H.E.R. on Why Dreamworks Animation’s ‘Forgotten Island’ Story of Friendship Resonated With Them

DreamWorks Animation's latest feature, "Forgotten Island," centers on a story about friendship tested by separation, drawing performances from Liza Soberano and H.E.R. that reflect the studio's long tradition of mining emotional depth from character bonds.

The studio has built its reputation on friendship narratives. "How to Train Your Dragon" paired a boy with his dragon companion across three films. "Shrek" explored the unlikely bond between an ogre and a talking donkey. "The Wild Robot" recently demonstrated how DreamWorks could extract profound emotion from the relationship between a robot and a bird. Each film prioritizes the connection between characters over spectacle, allowing audiences to invest in why these relationships matter.

"Forgotten Island" follows this established blueprint. The film's central conflict revolves around two best friends confronting the possibility of separation. This premise taps into a universal anxiety: the fear of losing people who define us. Soberano and H.E.R., both accomplished performers in their own right, recognized something authentic in this narrative thread.

Liza Soberano brings her considerable acting pedigree to the project. The Filipino-American actress built her career through television and film work that emphasized emotional authenticity. H.E.R., the Grammy-winning artist whose real name is Gabriella Wilson, has demonstrated her range beyond music through acting roles that showcase dramatic sensitivity. Together, they voice characters whose friendship forms the emotional core of the story.

Both performers spoke about why this particular story resonated with them personally. The themes of connection and loss transcend age and background. In an industry often dominated by spectacle and action sequences, DreamWorks has consistently wagered that audiences hunger for something more intimate: a genuine exploration of what it means to care for another person.

The timing of "Forgotten Island" arrives as animated feature films continue evolving beyond their traditional family entertainment category. Studios increasingly invest in voice talent known for serious dramatic work, betting that name recognition and emotional credibility elevate their projects. Soberano and H.E.R. represent this shift. Their presence signals that DreamWorks views this film as something worth their artistic commitment.

The studio's approach reflects broader industry trends. Animated films now compete directly with live-action productions for critical attention and awards recognition. "The Wild Robot" demonstrated this possibility last year, earning widespread acclaim and Oscar consideration. "Forgotten Island" follows a similar path, leaning into character development and emotional truth rather than relying solely on technical innovation.

For Soberano and H.E.R., participating in a DreamWorks production offers access to a studio known for respecting its voice actors and investing in quality storytelling. The project allows both performers to contribute to narratives aimed at children while carrying weight that adults recognize and appreciate.

DreamWorks Animation understands that friendship stories endure because they reflect fundamental human experiences. Separation, loyalty, growth, and reconciliation form the backbone of stories that last. By casting Soberano and H.E.R., the studio assembled performers capable of conveying the nuance required when animated characters carry genuine emotional stakes.