The challenges faced by women in the Philippines regarding reproductive rights and access to safe abortions.

Sunshine is a promising and ambitious gymnast who is training hard to qualify for the Olympic Games, but then she learns that she is unexpectedly pregnant. Determined to pursue her dream, Sunshine continues to train. However, after her cowardly boyfriend fears the reaction of his ultra-religious father, she wanders in the darkest corners of Manila in search of unsafe and illegal ways to terminate the pregnancy.

Actress Maris Racal fearlessly embodies this challenging and impressive role, despite having no previous experience in gymnastics. Director Antoinette Jadaone (“Fangirl”, PÖFF 2020) reminds us that abortion is a criminal offence in radically patriarchal Philippines. Even to save the life of the pregnant woman, it is forbidden and heavily stigmatised by society.

This eye-opening Filipino film, brimming with youthful rebellious energy, has been shown in Toronto, Palm Springs, Udine and Taipei, and was nominated for an APSA (Asian Oscar). It also won the Crystal Bear at Berlinale Generations. Sunshine’s risky quest will not leave anyone indifferent.