Filipino Canadian content creator and comedian John “Nurse John” Dela Cruz was one of the Filipino talents who made their way into DreamWorks Animation’s newest film, Forgotten Island.
Nurse John recently attended the Los Angeles premiere of the animated film, where he shared his excitement over having a cameo in a movie that puts Filipino mythology and culture at the center of its story.
“With my beautiful wife and date for the @forgottenislandmovie LA premiere! Had a chance to do a cameo in this movie that is all about friendship and most importantly the Filipino mythology and culture!” Nurse John said.
He went on: “Finally, a movie in Hollywood that showcases my culture, our story, history, and our folklore! Love you @joel.crawford.art & @janimatedultd”
Speaking with Cherry the Geek TV on the red carpet of the film’s world premiere at the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, Nurse John shared how proud he was to be part of the project.
“I'm feeling all the Filipino energy tonight. I mean, all my people are here. It is such a great movie. I have a cameo actually in this movie, which I'm super proud of. And I'm just so excited to see everybody and what this film is all about. I mean, this is my culture. This is my heritage. So, I'm just super excited,” he said.
For Nurse John, what stood out most about Forgotten Island was seeing Filipino culture and heritage represented on a Hollywood screen.
“What resonated, for me, the most is the culture. The representation of our culture really is something that a lot of us here in the United States is missing. A lot of us Filipino need to feel like we have been looking for some something or someone to represent us and this movie shows our culture, our heritage and really is being what it is like to be in the Philippines.”
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Forgotten Island is currently showing in Philippine cinemas, where it has made an impressive debut at the box office.
The film earned ₱97.2 million during its opening weekend, making it the biggest opening weekend for a DreamWorks Animation film in the Philippines. According to figures released on September 28, the movie grossed ₱97,236,533 from its opening weekend, also marking the biggest opening for a non-franchise animated film in the country.
The film has likewise received positive reviews from both critics and audiences, with a 95% Certified Fresh rating from critics and a 97% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes as of September 28.
Forgotten Island follows childhood best friends Jo and Raissa, voiced by H.E.R. and Liza Soberano, respectively, who find themselves transported to the fantastical island of Nakali. There, they encounter a world filled with Filipino mythical creatures and stories they grew up hearing from their families.
The film also features Filipino stars Liza Soberano, H.E.R., Lea Salonga and Manny Jacinto, alongside Dave Franco, Jo Koy, Jenny Slate, and Ronny Chieng. Its soundtrack further highlights Filipino music, with songs from artists including BINI, SB19, Lea Salonga, and Sophia Laforteza of KATSEYE.
Nurse John rose to prominence through his social media content featuring relatable moments from the lives of medical frontliners, particularly Filipino nurses working abroad. His growing platform has since led to a successful career as a content creator and comedian.
In June, Nurse John landed at No. 28 on Forbes’ Top Creators 2026 list. He also brought his Short-Staffed Tour to Manila, performing at the Mall of Asia Arena earlier this year.