Forgotten Island Mixes 3D and '90s Anime 2D
DreamWorks' Forgotten Island blends Pixar-style 3D with 2D anime sequences referencing Sailor Moon and Dragon Ball, animated by Snipple in the Philippines.
Forgotten Island, an animated adventure now in theaters, largely uses the 3D style associated with Pixar, Disney, and DreamWorks. But several sequences break from that look with flat 2D animation inspired by 1990s anime.
Those 2D moments reference Sailor Moon, Dragon Ball, and Street Fighter. Writer-directors Januel P. Mercado and Joel Crawford said the anime nods came from their childhood fandoms.
The 2D sequences reflect the perspectives of the characters telling the stories, including Raww, Prince Mermahn, and Bungi. Raww is voiced by Dave Franco, Prince Mermahn by Kevin McCann, and Bungi by Manny Jacinto.
Visual development artist Kalen Chock designed much of the final look for Raww's flashback. Snipple Animation Studios in the Philippines produced all the 2D animated moments in the film, which celebrates Filipino culture.
Polygon reported on the film's blend of animation styles.
Quick answers
What animation styles does Forgotten Island use?
Most of the film is animated in a 3D style associated with Pixar, Disney, and DreamWorks, while several sequences use flat 2D animation inspired by 1990s anime.
Which anime are referenced in Forgotten Island?
The 2D sequences reference Sailor Moon, Dragon Ball, and Street Fighter.
Who animated the 2D sequences in Forgotten Island?
Snipple Animation Studios in the Philippines produced all the 2D animated moments in the film.