Maris Racal’s ‘Sunshine’ wins Crystal Bear award at Berlinale 2025
Maris Racal’s ‘Sunshine’ wins Crystal Bear award at Berlinale 2025 | Image: Facebook/Project 8 Projects
Maris Racal’s sports drama “Sunshine” has bagged the Crystal Bear award at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival, or Berlinale 2025.
The Crystal Bear is awarded to the Best Feature Film of both the Generation Kplus and the Generation 14plus competitions. The film belonged to the latter category.
The announcement was made on Berlinale’s official Instagram page on Friday, Feb. 21, which Racal reposted on her Instagram Story with the caption, “Mom we won!”
Image: Instagram/@mariesteller
According to the jury’s statement, “Sunshine” takes “a sensitive view on its modern and socially critical topic” and its strong message resonated with them.
“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,” it said.
The jurors described the Filipino film as “deeply moving” yet not “exaggerated,” adding its impact can be felt long after the credits rolled.
“It raises our awareness by confronting us with the reality of the social and political problems it addresses, which unfortunately still exist today. The film’s balance of different moral perspectives and impressive stylistic elements creates an immersive reality that feels authentic and deeply moving,” they stated.
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“Nothing about it feels exaggerated or distant—it draws us in and enables us to experience the characters’ inner conflicts in an inspiring way that stays with us long after we’ve finished watching. Whether or not viewers can directly identify with the issues it tackles, we believe this film will leave a lasting impact,” they concluded.
Prior to its debut in Berlin, Germany, “Sunshine” initially had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) last year, and at the Palm Springs Film Festival earlier this year.
Directed by Antoinette Jadaone, “Sunshine” follows the struggles of a young gymnast (Racal) who attempts to terminate her pregnancy ahead of her trout for the national team.
Aside from Racal, the film also stars Elijah Canlas, Xyriel Manabat, Annika Co and Jennica Garcia.
Meanwhile, Racal previously stunned in her red-carpet look at the international film festival as she exuded elegance in a pastel green gown that featured an open back and a halter neckline adorned with white floral embellishments.
