Why Maris Racal is skipping the world premiere of 'Sunshine' at Toronto International Film Festival 2024

Maris Racal shared why she's not attending the world premiere of her film, Sunshine, the only Filipino entry participating at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).  

The actress said in a new interview with TV Patrol that despite her numerous attempts to be at the prestigious festival, she won’t be able to fly to Canada due to a schedule conflict with her upcoming teleserye, Incognito, which will be shot in Italy. 

“I made a commitment kasi and this (Incognito) is booked na way early this year,” she said. 

“I appreciate naman the production and ABS-CBN, they really tried to move things around for me ‘cause they know how important TIFF is for me. They really tried. They really tried to change the schedule but matagal na talagang naka-book 'yung Italy,” the Marupok AF star continued, adding there would be filming schedules and venues that would be affected if she doesn't push through with the shoot as planned.

She added that she got her passport with the Canadian visa approval early morning of Sept. 10, the day of her flight to Italy. 

“Heartbreaking,” she said. “But it’s not about me naman eh, the important thing is there is a Filipino movie na kasama sa TIFF 2024. Direk Tonet (Jadaone) will be there. I’ll be there in spirit. Beaming with pride, I’m in Italy to support them.” 

In the 2024 TIFF entry, Maris plays the role of Sunshine—a young gymnast who is met with a dilemma when she finds out she’s pregnant days before the national team tryouts. Directed by Antoinette Jadaone, the movie also stars Elijah Canlas, Xyriel Manabat, Jennica Garcia, and Meryll Soriano.

TIFF is one of the most prestigious international movie festivals. The annual affair gathers filmmakers and aspiring ones from different parts of the world to promote international films through screenings, lectures, festivals, workshops, events, and talk back sessions with the creators, among others.