From a supposed three-cinema screening, Direk Antoinette Jadaone’s award-winning and thought-provoking film “Sunshine” continues to bring into light talks on women’s rights, specifically on bodily autonomy and reproductive health, after entering its third week with 65 SM cinemas nationwide.
“Because of your overwhelming love and support, ‘Sunshine’ continues to shine. Maraming salamat sa lahat ng nanood, nanonood, at manonood muli,” Project 8 Projects captioned its announcement on its official Facebook page, which the filmmaker reposted on her Instagram story with an overwhelmed caption. “Daming nagbalik na cinemas! Let’s go, Sunshine Week 3,” she wrote.
Following its story, “Sunshine” sparked conversations for its bravery in discussing women’s reproductive rights. On the other hand, the writer and director herself revealed that the film being “brave” as it is was not initially part of their goal. “Hindi ko inisip kung matapang ba ‘yong pelikula o hindi; will it show a braver side of me or not—while writing or while doing it. Ang loyalty ko as a writer is to Sunshine—the character. Saan man ako dalahin ng kwento, makakaasa si Sunshine na kakampi niya ako,” Direk Antoinette Jadaone shared.
The film’s casting was also praised after including acting powerhouse, such as Meryll Soriano, Jennica Garcia, Piolo Pascual, Xyriel Manabat, and Annika Co. Meanwhile, Maris Racal portrayed Sunshine Francisco in the film, who according to Direk Antoinette Jadaone, was personally picked for the character. “Naka-work ko na siya before. Alam ko na kung paano siya umarte. Alam ko na ‘yong dedication and passion niya para sa craft niya. It was a no brainer na siya ang naisip ko, bukod sa physically, pwede siya talagang gymnast,” she narrated.
“Sunshine” also featured award-winning actor Elijah Canlas, playing as Miggy, who was also selected for the character by the writer-director herself. “Alam ko ang kapasidad niya as an actor. Tapos malaking tulong din na Cornerstone artist din siya. Ang dali niyang makausap dahil pareho rin kami ng management. And I think, bagay rin talaga siya roon sa role,” Direk Antoinette Jadaone shared.
As the Crystal Bear awardee in the 2025 Berlinale film continues to tell the story of Sunshine Francisco to its Filipino audiences, filmmaker Antoinette Jadaone expressed her message to all the women finding themselves in the shoes of Sunshine, reassuring them of support and acceptance. “Hindi ka nag-iisa. Gets ka namin. Kakampi mo kami.”
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