Maris Racal’s ‘Sunshine’ to compete at Berlin film fest

Metro Manila, Philippines – A Maris Racal-starring film continues to shine on the global stage after being selected for the 75th Berlin International Film Festival.

"Sunshine," directed by Antoinette Jadaone, is an official entry in the BIFF under the Generation 14plus competition, which highlights stories featuring young protagonists, according to the Berlinale website.

Film producer Project 8 Projects shared the announcement on social media on Thursday, Jan. 16.

“Stay tuned—SUNSHINE's Berlinale screening dates will be announced soon!” it said on Instagram.

Racal portrays Sunshine, a young gymnast who discovers she is pregnant during the week of tryouts for the national team, leading her to consider abortion. The film also stars Annika Co, Jennica Garcia, Meryll Soriano, and Elijah Canlas.

Having premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2024, the film has also been featured at the prestigious Palm Springs International Film Festival and Asia Pacific Screen Awards.

Local screening dates have yet to be announced.