FILE PHOTO
Antoinette Jadaone’s “Sunshine,” starring Maris Racal, has been making waves across the international festival circuit and continues to draw acclaim for its storytelling and standout performances.
Although the film was among the strong contenders shortlisted to become the Philippines’ official entry to the Oscars, it ultimately did not secure the slot. Still, “Sunshine” has proven itself a formidable force, igniting conversations locally and filling cinemas with sold-out screenings for weeks.
The film’s latest international accolade comes from Japan. At the Osaka Asian Film Festival 2025, the “Incognito” star received a Special Mention for her riveting portrayal of “Sunshine.”
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The festival jury praised her subtle yet powerful acting, saying, “Sunshine’s eyes never miss us. Her listening to the pastor and her boyfriend’s words heightened the film’s credibility and drew us in. Racal is a great actress.”
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The actress later reacted to the recognition by reposting the news on her Instagram Stories, accompanied by three teary-eyed emojis.
Its momentum began with a major triumph at the Berlinale earlier this year, where it bagged the prestigious Crystal Bear for Best Film in the Generation 14plus section.
San Diego Filipino Film Festival
The international journey doesn’t stop there. “Sunshine” is heading back to the United States as the Centerpiece Feature at the San Diego Filipino Film Festival.
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The film’s official page proudly shared, “Next stop: San Diego, USA!!!! SUNSHINE is chosen as the Centerpiece Feature at this year’s San Diego Filipino Film Festival. Visit @sdfilipinocinema for the full lineup and more info about the festival!”
In addition to festival wins, the movie has secured North American distribution through Indiecan Entertainment. The deal, unveiled at Cannes, covers theatrical and digital rights and includes plans for an English-language remake.
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Indiecan’s Avi Federgreen is attached to direct the reimagined version, with backing from Federgreen Entertainment and Michaelangelo Masangkay’s Sine Media Inc.
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