Maris Racal’s ‘Sunshine’ wins Crystal Bear Award at Berlinale
Maris Racal’s ‘Sunshine’ has won the Crystal Bear for Best Film at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival. Photo from mariesteller/Instagram
A new milestone has been achieved in Filipino cinema’s international success.
Maris Racal’s “Sunshine” has recently clinched the Crystal Bear for Best Film at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival, also known as Berlinale 2025, a major recognition in the Generation 14plus category. But what exactly is this award, and why does winning it matter?
First, the Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) is one of the world’s biggest and most influential film festivals, alongside Cannes (France) and Venice (Italy). Winning at Berlinale is a major achievement for any filmmaker, as the festival is known for its focus on artistic excellence, political relevance and bold storytelling.
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Second, the Crystal Bear is a prestigious prize given by the Generation 14plus Youth Jury, composed of young film enthusiasts who select movies that deeply resonate with teenage audiences. This category focuses on films that tell bold, socially relevant stories from the perspective of young people, tackling themes that challenge and inspire.
This year’s jury—Nour Ibrahim, Zeynep Atay, Tyler Kurokhtin, Jil Baalmann and Rohan Yadav—chose Sunshine as the competition’s best film, praising its emotional depth and strong message.
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In their statement, they shared, “This film takes a sensitive view on its modern and socially critical topic and its strong message. It touched us not only through the acting performances, but also with its dark, yet hopeful and empowering atmosphere, which the filmmakers created with their way of storytelling.”
The Generation 14plus section at Berlinale is known for championing films that push boundaries in youth storytelling, and “Sunshine” now joins the ranks of past winners that have sparked important conversations.
Directed by Antoinette Jadaone, “Sunshine” unfolds with the “Incognito” star’s character facing 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.
