Manuel Quezon’s kin John Arcilla, TBA Studios respond to film backlash
MANILA, Philippines — The production studio behind "Quezon" have addressed the recent backlash issued by a descendant of the biopic's titular subject, the second Philippine president Manuel L. Quezon.
A recent screening of "Quezon" got heated following a tirade by Quezon's grandson Ricky Quezon-Avancena during the succeeding talkback session.
Avancena asked Tarog if the latter intended for the film to be a political satire. When the director replied in the affirmative, Avancena doubled down on the movie being "a joke."
He later told Tarog that in making "Quezon," the filmmaker "opened Pandora's Box," and gave examples of other things the Quezon family had done in the past.
"Hindi niyo alam ano ginawa niyo dahil kayo, gusto niyo kumita ng pera at sumikat... mahiya kayo," Avancena said, claiming they were discrediting his family. "China-channel ko ngayon ang aking lolo sa paksa ninyo, 'P****ta kayo, mga p******ina niyo, kupal kayo!'"
Later on Facebook, Avancena shared the screening was his third time seeing "Quezon" that week, and called out Rosales for "canceling a Quezon" because of the actor's attempt to block a response from a direct descendant of Quezon.
Actor John Arcilla, star of the first "Bayaniverse" film "Heneral Luna" by TBA Studios and another descendant of Quezon through his mother, commented on Avancena's post to share his own sentiments.
Arcilla acknowledged Quezon's living relatives should have been consulted by the production team, noting that no film has been made about artist Juan Luna as his wife's family declined a project of his life story told from someone else's point of view.
"All the people involved are my colleagues and friends, and while I cannot apologize on their behalf — because, as you said, they have their own principles and freedom of expression — I believe that if the living family and descendants feel bothered by the matter, you/we are fully entitled to our reactions, or even to seek proper clarification or action if necessary."
The actor did note a "satirical" angle might be the "best defense" for "Quezon," saying the film looked that way through how it "styled the early rigodons of political opponents and some of the 'actings'" though the content itself did feel satirical.
"The preachy and direct characterization of our Lolo's persona according to what the film wants to paint was explicitly stated by the fictional Joven — who represents the audience — right to his face. That's what truly feels bothersome. I feel you, 'nsan," Arcilla ended.
TBA Studios later issued a statement responding to Avancena's public outburst, reiterating that "Quezon" was based on verified historical accounts, including the late president's own autobiography and other reliable sources.
The production outfit further pointed out that amid added fictional elements for thematic purposes, details from "Quezon" can be verified through public records, online research, or library resources.
"We encourage everyone to watch the movie so they can form their own opinions and join the ongoing conversation about the film, our history, and how it continues to resonate today," said TBA Studios.
The studio ended hoping that "Quezon" will "continue to inspire meaningful dialogue, reflection, and a deeper appreciation of our nation’s past."
"Quezon" starring Jericho Rosales — his first film in seven years — as the titular character chronicles the politician's life through the lens of the four rivalries he faced during his rise to power.
RELATED: Manuel Quezon grandson slams biopic, lashes at Jerrold Tarog, Jericho Rosales
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