Why you shouldn't watch the Filipino film Sunshine

Photo courtesy of Project 8 Projects

Sunshine, a Filipino film that has sparked conversations since its release in July, is headlined by Maris Racal and directed by Antoinette Jadaone. It tells the story of a promising gymnast preparing for the Olympics but who suddenly faces her biggest horror—being pregnant.

Thinking of watching it? This article might help you. Just a heads-up, this isn’t a professional film review; it’s just some thoughts from a movie enthusiast.

1. Don't watch this film if you are not prepared to be angry

The film Sunshine will stir up powerful emotions, and anger might be one of them. You’ll feel angry at the systemic flaws in our country and the lack of protection for our children and women. Some parts of the story will disturb you to the core by portraying the ugly truths we face as a nation.

2. If you believe that sex education should be a taboo subject, this is not for you

In the movie, Sunshine’s teenage pregnancy is not just a result of her own choices; it’s also a product of the world she lives in. I couldn't help but ask: "What if Sunshine and her boyfriend had practiced safe sex?" and "What if our schools and homes had started honest conversations about sex education early on, instead of labeling it as 'bastos'?"

We often avoid conversations about sex and find comfort in conservative norms, but our younger generation needs to learn from older and more experienced people. They need to be equipped to make informed decisions and avoid situations that can harm them.

3. This Filipino film might challenge your beliefs

Set against the backdrop of Quiapo, Manila, this film beautifully captures the conflicting faith ideologies people hold. You will see a faith healer selling abortion pills outside a church, a doctor preaching that abortion is a sin, and a father who is too controlling despite being a pastor. These are just some of the contradicting beliefs presented in the story.

Beyond our faith as a Christian nation, the film Sunshine forces us to ask if we truly considered the reality that some teenagers get pregnant not because they want to, but because they were abused? What about them?

4. Not for the weak heart

Beyond the anger it might provoke, this film will definitely break your heart. Imagine yourself preparing for your biggest break in life, only for a devastating bomb to drop on you. The anxiety, sadness, uncertainty, and grief for lost dreams, Maris Racal’s performance perfectly translates these human emotions onto the screen. Jennica Garcia, who played Sunshine’s sister; Elijah Canlas, as her boyfriend; and Annika Co, as a mysterious girl, also acted very well.

5. Don't watch Sunshine film if you can't handle an unapologetic woman

As a young woman, Sunshine has always been a “Yes, coach” and “Yes, ate” kind of girl. The most powerful part of the film for me was seeing Sunshine make a choice for herself and her own body and resist the noises around her. It made me think of other Filipino women I personally know who have faced these struggles. I can't help but wonder: what could they have achieved if they had received better support? If our country offered more access to legal protection and welfare? How many more Sunshines will there be before we change and strengthen our laws and policies? Will there ever be sunshine for them?

Sunshine is more than a movie—it’s an eye-opener and a call to take a stand. Watch this Filipino film, support it, and be part of the conversation.

Love movies that make you think? Keep an eye out for more from Michelle Lanterno’s Spotlight by Mich—your corner for honest takes and fresh perspectives on Filipino and international films.