Streaming now in cinemas | Feel-good, soul-stirring Filipino cinema
A Movie That Asks “Why?” Right from the Start
I walked into SUNSHINE at SM Lanang Cinema curious—and admittedly, a bit puzzled. Why does the director introduce a metaphorical character so early? What was the point of those deliberate silences? Those pauses and metaphors weren’t lazy storytelling—they were hooks. They pulled me in, made me wonder, and made me feel like I was solving a personal puzzle.
Maris & Toinette: A Dazzling Duo
Maris Racal is simply spellbinding here. Her performance hits all the emotional high notes and then some: raw, vulnerable, and achingly real.
Antoinette Jadaone, the wizard behind the lens, flips the script on conventional storytelling—prioritizing silence, space, and symbolism over obvious dialogue. The result? A movie that speaks in subtleties, and lingers in your heart.
International Accolades (And They’re Well-Deserved)
No wonder the world is raving about SUNSHINE. The film won the Crystal Bear for Best Film at the prestigious 75th Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale), competing in the Generation 14plus category.
The award highlights a story rooted in sisterhood, resilience, and youth-driven social awareness— themes that resonate globally. The sold-out premiere and memorable Q&A with Maris and Direk Tonette proved one thing: Filipino films can stand shoulder to shoulder with the best of the world.
Sunshine didn’t just shine — it soared!
Not only did it win the Crystal Bear for Best Film at the prestigious 75th Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) 2025, but it also brought home two major awards from the Austin Asian American Film Festival 2025: the Narrative Feature Jury Award and the Audience Award.
A double win that proves Sunshine truly radiates across cultures and hearts.
A Film That Makes You Sit & Feel
After the credits rolled, I simply sat there—with a tissue in hand and emotions swirling. There was no rush to speak because everything inside me was already echoing the story. That, dear readers, is SUNSHINE’s magic.
🌟 Palraine.com Reviewer’s Rating
My Final Verdict:
SUNSHINE is not just a movie—it’s a feeling. It invites you to lean in, to decode its heartfelt silences, and to feel seen. Come with an open heart, and leave with a piece of sunshine that stays with you.
Don’t miss it, Davao! Watch SUNSHINE now at SM Lanang & SM City Davao— and let me know what part stayed with you.
