BINI member Jhoanna took to social media to clarify her earlier review of Sunshine, a film starring Maris Racal.
In an Instagram Story, the leader of the nation’s girl group expressed her appreciation for the constructive feedback her initial review received online and apologized for any misunderstanding her post may have caused among those who have also seen the film.
“I appreciate the constructive feedback po. If my choice of words and how I posted Sunshine's experience came across differently than I intended, I sincerely apologize po,” she expressed.
Jhoanna revealed that she was not initially aware of the online discussion surrounding her post, as she has not been active on X (formerly Twitter). A friend later informed her about the trending topic.
“Before this goes further, I wasn't aware of the discussion on X, since I haven't been using it recently, and a friend just shared it with me,” she said.
The BINI member explained that her intention was to share the lessons and realizations she personally took away from the film.
“What I hoped to emphasize was the weight of societal pressure, how crucial support systems are, and how access to proper education can empower people to make informed, safe decisions for themselves, whatever those decisions may be,” Jhoanna added.
Jhoanna acknowledged that her initial post may not have fully reflected the film’s central message, especially given its sensitive and timely themes.
“With that, I do understand po that my initial post didn't quite capture the heart of what the film was trying to convey especially given how deeply it tackles a much more personal and urgent issue that deserves to be approached with more care and clarity,” she remarked.
She concluded her statement by praising the film and expressing openness to discussions.
“It was a good movie. Definitely worth watching,” she wrote. “And I'm always open to thoughtful discussions and learning from different perspectives. Thank youuuu everyone “
In a screenshot of her now-expired Instagram Story, shared by the film’s production company Project 8 Projects, Jhoanna elaborated on her takeaways from the film.
“I love how it tackled mental health na kapag yan na yung tinitira, ang lakas-lakas na ng loob natin gumawa ng mga bagay na ikaрараhamak natin,” Jhoanna wrote.
“You never really know what someone's going through and it's really important to be more understanding of the silence, the sadness, and always try to lift others up with kind words,” she added.
Jhoanna also offered words of encouragement for young mothers, echoing themes she perceived from the film. “Sa mga katulad ni Sunshine (young moms) you are seen and you are strong. Strength isn't about being tough, it's about choosing to keep going kahit ang bigat-bigat na.
“Sa mga hindi, mag-isip nang mabuti huwag nating ipagpalit ang future natin sa pansamantalang happiness.”
Despite her thoughtful intentions, Jhoanna received criticism from some netizens who felt her interpretation missed the core message of the film, which tackles issues like safe sex and abortion as healthcare.
“Parang may mali miss Jhoanna😭😭😭 parang mental health yung takeaway niya sa Sunshine when it tackled safe sex and abortion as healthcare. Sunshine's mental state in the movie is actually stable mhiema,” a netizen said in a post on X.
Fans and other netizens, however, came to her defense.
“If Jhoanna had a different opinion, it's because she has a different perspective and life experience than you. It doesn't make her wrong. If you think that the only correct opinion is yours, then you're the problem. And the more you shove down other people's throats your view as if it is the only valid truth, the more that people will spit it out right at your faces,” a netizen said in a post.
Another one shared, “People are too quick to judge other people's perspective. Let's try to educate instead, because I'm sure Jhoanna would love that, but 'blooms' are judging her perspective on the film. Why?? I'm sure Jhoanna would love to see all your perspectives too. She did nothing wrong. 🥳.”
Sunshine, directed by Antoinette Jadaone and starring Maris Racal, is now showing exclusively in SM Cinemas nationwide.
In a previous interview, Maris emphasized that the film aims to start conversations around sensitive social issues.
READ: Why Maris Racal was given the role in 'Sunshine' according to the director
READ:Maris Racal hopes people would be compassionate after they watch ‘Sunshine’
“Ang goal lang naman ng movie na ‘to is to start a conversation na hindi siya mawawala, na hindi siya last option na i-tackle ng mga tao or like people na may power to make laws,” she said.