Filipina actress Maris Racal’s film “Sunshine” won two major awards—the Narrative Feature Jury Award and Audience Award—at the 2025 Austin Asian American Film Festival in Texas.
Directed by Antoinette Jadaone, the coming-of-age drama tells the story of a young gymnast who faces a difficult choice after discovering she is pregnant just before national tryouts amid strict anti-abortion laws in the Philippines.
The film also stars Elijah Canlas, Annika Co, Jennica Garcia, and features a special appearance by Piolo Pascual.
“Sunshine” previously premiered at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival and won the Crystal Bear for Best Film at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival.
Canadian company Indiecan Entertainment acquired its North American distribution rights, with plans for a theatrical and digital release later this year, and an English remake is in development.
Source: PhilNews24 | July 3, 2025
