#United States #Shelton #DreamWorks #BIC #Forgotten Island

BIC® Unites with DreamWorks Animation for an Inspiring Pen Pal Program

BIC® has officially partnered with DreamWorks Animation to celebrate the release of Forgotten Island, an animated film that intertwines vibrant storytelling with the allure of imagination. To commemorate this collaboration, BIC® is unveiling its exciting 4-Color™ Pen Pals program, which aims to create meaningful cultural exchanges between students in the United States and the Philippines. This initiative is not only a fun exploration of friendship and creativity but also seeks to highlight the importance and joy of handwriting in a digital age.

The 4-Color™ Pen Pals program is specifically designed for students in grades 3 to 5, allowing them to engage with their peers across the globe while immersing themselves in rich Filipino culture and traditions. By communicating through handwritten letters, participants will explore the enchanting themes present in Forgotten Island, which narrates the adventures of two best friends who are whisked away to a magical realm filled with mythological creatures native to Filipino folklore.

With the resurgence of traditional letter writing, primarily among younger generations, this program promotes an out-of-the-box approach to connecting with others. Numerous studies have shown that writing by hand serves as a beneficial brain exercise, enhancing memory, critical thinking, and motor skills. It creates a unique and intentional form of expression, allowing children to forge genuine connections in an increasingly automation-driven world.

This initiative is further bolstered through a partnership with We Are Teachers, which taps into its extensive network of educators. The program is far more than just a school project; it's a vibrant celebration of the tactile experience of writing. Launching ahead of the film's release on September 25, 2026, this program emphasizes that the act of putting pen to paper can be an incredibly joyous experience.

Limited-Edition Pen Pal Kits to Fuel Creativity

In collaboration with We Are Teachers, BIC® has designed exclusive Pen Pal Kits that can transform standard classrooms into bustling hubs of creativity. Central to each kit is the beloved BIC® 4-Color™ Pen, a tool that allows students to craft unique letters that highlight their personal flair. These limited-edition kits will be available to a select number of classrooms, with 250 kits offered to teachers on a first-come, first-served basis via We Are Teachers.

Each kit includes:

• - Custom stationery and envelopes, inspired by the captivating artwork and themes from Forgotten Island.
• - The BIC® 4-Color™ Pen, empowering students to illustrate and personalize their messages using multiple ink colors.
• - Curriculum-aligned educational resources, complete with lesson plans and activities designed to introduce students to the rich geography, culture, and folklore of the Philippines.
• - Maps of the Philippines and additional cultural resources to enhance the exchange experience.

Available for request starting September 9, 2026, these engaging kits serve to incorporate educational elements while fostering a global perspective among students. After the physical kits are claimed, educators can also find a digital version to download.

Brian Manotok, Stationery Brand Manager for North America at BIC, reflects on the importance of this initiative: “There is something special about the weight of a pen in your hand and the texture of paper. With the BIC® 4-Color™ Pen, we’re not just providing a tool; we’re providing a passport to a more personal and intentional way of communicating.” He believes this collaboration with DreamWorks Animation will amplify the joys of offline connection for students, making the art of handwriting fresh and vibrant once again.

About BIC

Recognized as a global leader in stationery products, lighters, and shavers, BIC has a long-standing commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable, and innovative products for over 80 years. With operations in over 160 countries and more than 14,000 employees worldwide, BIC's brand portfolio includes beloved products such as the BIC® 4-Color™, Cristal®, and Wite-Out® Brand. The company continues to uphold its commitment to sustainability and education, as part of its broader mission to brighten everyday life.

About DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island

Forgotten Island is an animated adventure that captures the essence of friendship entwined with cultural richness. Written and directed by Academy Award® nominee Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, the film stars popular talents including H.E.R. and Liza Soberano as lifelong best friends Jo and Raissa. Their timeless bond is challenged when they find themselves on a fantastical island filled with remarkable creatures drawn from Filipino folklore. Together, Jo and Raissa must navigate their friendship, cultural folklore, and the obstacles presented by their enchanting environment. This heartfelt story promises to inspire audiences and celebrate the importance of friendship.

BIC’s partnership with DreamWorks Animation exemplifies a meaningful relationship that extends creativity beyond the screen, offering students the opportunity to write, connect, and learn about different cultures—one handwritten letter at a time.