Maris Racal’s film ‘Sunshine’ all set for US premiere

Maris Racal stars in ‘Sunshine,’ which has secured a spot at the 36th annual Palm Springs International Film Festival. Screencap from ‘Sunshine’ trailer

Shining brighter next year, Maris Racal stars in the film, “Sunshine,” which has secured a spot at the 36th annual Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF). 

Scheduled to take place from Jan. 2 to 13, 2025, the festival is known for celebrating outstanding international and independent cinema and is often dubbed the “first stop on the road to the Academy Awards.” 

Among its highlights is the star-studded Film Awards night on Jan. 3, which honors the year’s most remarkable performances.

Directed by Antonette Jadaone, “Sunshine” will be featured under the festival’s prestigious “World Cinema Now” section. 

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This marks a significant milestone for the “Can’t Buy Me Love” star, whose portrayal of a young gymnast navigating the trials of teenage pregnancy has garnered critical acclaim.

The story unfolds as her character faces the dual challenge of preparing for the national team and confronting the realities of impending motherhood.

Along the way, a mysterious figure enters her life, sparking revelations that redefine her understanding of family and resilience.

The film’s inclusion at PSIFF was announced by its producer, Project 8 Projects, through an Instagram post stating, “Sunshine goes to the US!”

Meanwhile, Jadaone, celebrated for her works like “That Thing Called Tadhana,” has expressed her commitment to addressing societal taboos through her storytelling.

In an interview with Deadline earlier this year, she highlighted the importance of “Sunshine” in sparking essential conversations, most especially in the Philippines. 

“These topics have always been taboo in the Philippines because of our deeply conservative roots,” she shared. “But when cases of teenage pregnancy and self-induced abortions rise every year, it is imperative that these stories be told.”

In September 2024, the film was also featured in the 49th Toronto International Film Festival’s Centrepiece section, which showcased 43 films from a wide array of countries.