The Unspoken Language of Friendship: 'Tayo na!' in 'Forgotten Island'

Unraveling the Multifaceted Meanings of 'Tayo na!'

In DreamWorks' newest animated feature, 'Forgotten Island,' the central characters, Jo and Raissa, frequently exchange the phrase 'Tayo na!' Unlike typical cinematic explanations, writer-directors Joel Crawford and Januel P. Mercado intentionally leave the Tagalog phrase's meaning to be absorbed through situational cues. This artistic choice challenges viewers to deduce its varied implications, which shift dramatically based on context. Online discussions among Filipinos and Tagalog speakers reveal 'Tayo na!' can signify anything from 'Let's go!' and 'You and me!' to 'Get up!', influenced by intonation, the speaker's intent, and the nature of the relationship depicted.

The Evolving Significance of a Simple Phrase

Throughout 'Forgotten Island,' 'Tayo na!' serves multiple narrative functions as Jo and Raissa, childhood friends navigating personal growth and relational shifts, employ it to either instigate new adventures or rally support in challenging moments. Initially, Jo's casual utterance of 'Let's go! Tayo na!' upon meeting Raissa sets a lighthearted tone. However, as their journey progresses, the phrase gradually acquires profound weight and expanded interpretations, reflecting the deepening complexities of their bond and the challenges they face.

Voice Actors' Personal Connection to 'Tayo na!'

Liza Soberano, the voice of Raissa, and H.E.R., who voices Jo, both shared with Polygon how their Filipino backgrounds significantly influenced their understanding and delivery of 'Tayo na!' in various scenes. H.E.R. recounted her personal experience of hearing her mother use the phrase to urge her to prepare for school, transforming it into a personal mantra for collaborative action and encouragement. Soberano, likewise, noted her grandmother's frequent use of 'Tayo na!,' emphasizing its more formal connotation of 'I'm not doing this without you,' highlighting its essence of unwavering companionship.

'Tayo na!' as a Catalyst for Action and Commitment

As Raissa prepares for college, creating a rift between her and Jo, a magical portal to the long-sought island of Nakali appears. Despite Raissa's hesitation, Jo invokes 'Tayo na!' to propel them forward. Throughout the film, both characters use this phrase to encourage each other to take crucial steps, transforming it into a unique code—much like 'Oklahoma' in 'Ted Lasso' or 'Grapefruit' in 'Bring Her Back'—that demands honesty and action rather than comforting deception. For Jo and Raissa, 'Tayo na!' becomes a powerful call to commitment.

The Irrevocable Power of 'Tayo na!'

H.E.R. describes 'Tayo na!' as an unbreakable promise: 'Once I say 'tayo na,' she knows I'm serious. You can't back down from a 'tayo na.' It's almost like an initiation.' Soberano concurs, labeling it their 'safe word,' signifying a serious, non-negotiable moment. This shared understanding reinforces the deep trust and loyalty between them, effectively becoming their 'best-friend card' for critical situations.

Infusing Filipino Identity into the Script

Both actors confirmed that their Filipino heritage was instrumental in grasping the subtleties of their characters' dialogue and relationship dynamics. This cultural insight even allowed them to contribute creatively to the script. H.E.R. proudly shared her input of a playful insult where Jo refers to a bully's car as a 'cheapney,' a clever nod to the iconic Filipino jeepney. This personal touch highlights the film's dedication to authentic cultural representation, fostering a genuine and familial atmosphere during production.