Sun Chaser: Pilot Episode Review

Sun Chaser, a new animated web series that celebrates Filipino culture and family, holds high promise for an emotionally resonant story about belonging and discovering yourself.

A call to protect the human and spirit world disrupts Jordan’s (Manny Jacinto) summer vacation. Following the destruction of his lola’s (“grandma” in Tagalog) house, Jordan — along with his cousins, Zoe (AC Bonifacio), the duwende Archie (Eugene Cordero), and the manananggal Angie (Liza Soberano) — embarks on a journey to the sea of a million islands. Now he has to learn about his newfound role as the spirit guardian, a role that his missing father once filled.

Created by Bernard Badion and Bobby Pontillas (and produced by Toon City Animation), Sun Chaser celebrates Filipino culture and family. Filipino mythology and strong family bonds make this a delightful watch. Not only that, but the crisp and sharp animation especially stands out during the action sequences. The parts with Jordan and his lola (Charo Santos-Concio) and cousins are humorous and endearing; they’re probably the highlight of the episode/story.

With that said, the pilot’s rushed pacing skims the chance for character introductions and development. The characters are thrown in without giving viewers the chance to get to know them. The sudden inciting incident makes the rest of the pilot hard to follow. Even with a runtime of around twelve minutes, there is that missed opportunity to build up a stronger and concise start for this series.

However, this is only the pilot episode. No doubt that Sun Chaser will get the funds and support needed to continue its run. The series is definitely a must-follow for its wonderful ideas and potential.

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The pilot episode of Sun Chaser is available to watch on Youtube. Watch the trailer here.

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Visit the page for Sun Chaser on the Toon City Animation Studio site here.

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You can support the creators through their Kickstarter campaign. Follow the Instagram page for Sun Chaser.

Author: Bradda M.

Bradda M. currently lives in Virginia. He teaches ESOL (English to Speakers of Other Languages) at a public school and spends his free time reading and watching movies with his partner.

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