Maris Racal excited to bring ‘Sunshine’ home
Photo from mariesteller/Instagram
Even though “Sunshine” has graced numerous film festivals around the world and earned international acclaim, lead actress Maris Racal had yet to watch the film in its entirety – until recently, at its premiere in Udine, Italy.
The Filipina actress experienced an unforgettable milestone as she watched “Sunshine” for the very first time during its world premiere at the Far East Film Festival in Italy.
Overcome with emotion, Racal was seen shedding tears of joy as the audience erupted into applause when the credits rolled on April 25.
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Photos shared by Project 8 Projects captured the heartfelt moment, posting on Instagram: “Maris Racal saw Sunshine for the first time in Udine, Italy. This was her as the credits rolled and the whole theatre clapped for her. She bawled her eyes out. We love you, Sunshine [Maris Racal]. The world is yours!”
The “Can’t Buy Me Love” star, still overwhelmed by the experience, took to social media to reflect on the night with a series of photos with “Sunshine” director Antoinette Jadaone.
“TEAM SUNSHINE! finally napanood ko na kagabi ang Sunshine. I have no words. I just want to thank my director, [Antoinette Jadaone] for this story. Ang tapang, ang bigat, at sobrang importanteng mapanood ng mga tao lalo na ngayon. Excited na kaming iuwi ang Sunshine para sa inyo!” she wrote.
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During the screening, Racal even addressed the crowd in Italian – a moment that reminded fans of her role in the Netflix hit series “Incognito.”
The gesture warmed hearts both at the event and online, where fans flooded her comment section with congratulations and calls to bring “Sunshine” to Philippine cinemas.
In a tweet, Racal shared her hopes with her fans: “namiss ko kayo mga accla. pagdasal natin mapalabas sa pilipinas ang Sunshine! abangan natin haaa! Te amo! mahahl kow kayow.”
Adding to the celebration, “Sunshine” recently clinched the prestigious Crystal Bear Award for Best Film at Berlinale 2025.
