H.E.R. is sharing her excitement for the upcoming animated film “Forgotten Island.”
Speaking in an interview with PEOPLE, the R&B singer explained the importance of the movie and her first voice-acting role. The family-friendly film also features the talents of Liza Soberano, Dave Franco, Jenny Slate, Manny Jacinto, and more.
“Forgotten Island” tells the story of a teenage friendship that is worth fighting for. According to the film’s official synopsis, the dazzling and emotional journey follows two lifelong best friends who must come together before they drift apart. While celebrating their last night together, Jo, voiced by H.E.R., and Raissa, voiced by Soberano, stumble upon a mysterious portal that transports them to the fantastical island of Nakali, packed with magical and mythological creatures they grew up hearing stories about from their Filipino families.
“When they told me it was about Filipinos and it was animated, I’m like, ‘I’m in, I’m in. That’s all you had to say,” the Grammy winner explained. “I came and read and it was so organic and it was so fun. I was also very emotional.”
The 29-year-old, born Gabriella “Gabi” Sarmiento Wilson, continued to detail the significance of the big screen moment. Throughout her career, the chart-topper has proudly represented both her Black and Filipina heritage.
“Filipinos aren’t really given this moment to celebrate. There’s never been a film created around Filipino culture celebrating the culture where people are speaking Tagalog. Not a mainstream film. So this is a really, really big deal for the culture.”
“We finally get to be seen,” she continued. “I’ve been seeing a little bit of the impact, but I can’t wait for the rest of the world to experience it.”
For the Oscar-winning musician, the release also revealed hope that “Forgotten Island” comes as a learning experience for audiences.
“Media is, I think, a way we get to know certain cultures and traditions. And so this movie is so important for that specifically so people can really see what Filipinos are about and what’s important to us and the way we love each other, the things that matter to us.”
Written and directed by Joel Crawford, “Forgotten Island” also stars Jenny Slate, Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, Ronny Chieng, and Lea Salonga. Due in theaters Friday, Sept. 25., watch a trailer for “Forgotten Island” below.
