Trail to Bayanihan follows Sam Soriano’s journey as she pedals through diverse landscapes, celebrating the joy of biking and the power of community. Along the way, she discovers how a bike can bridge distances and forge deep human connections. As she explores breathtaking terrains and bonds with local riders, including the passionate Baguio crew, the film highlights the Filipino biking community’s role in shaping her journey. Grounded in her search for cultural roots, Trail to Bayanihan ultimately reveals the wider family Sam finds through biking, transforming her quest for heritage into a celebration of shared humanity.
Cat spearheaded a full re-edit to tailor the film for core mountain bike audiences and the North American market. Beyond the creative, Cat led the film’s festival distribution strategy, helping it reach audiences around the world who share the same love for the ride. The film is currently screening at film festivals globally.
CREDITS:
Client: adidas TERREX
Director: Cat Aeppel
Co-Director: Santiago Burin des Roziers
Producer: Martin Faubert-Smith
Cinematography : Cat Aeppel & Tory Powers
Aerial Cinematography: Tory Powers
Additional Cinematography: Santiago Burin des Roziers, Heather Young, Jared Hardy, Peter Jamison
Photography : Peter Jamison
Editor : Tory Powers
Post Sound : Keith White Audio
Color: Rick Wilson
Graphic Designer: Christopher Miller
Visual Effects Artist: Annika Danenhauer
Prod Co: Steelhead Marketing