Content warning: This review contains spoilers
You’ll see the other side when you cross the avenue.
Behind his title as the “Ama ng Wikang Pambansa” lies another side of the second Philippine president, Manuel L. Quezon, as depicted in the historical film “Quezon.”
The third installment in the “Bayaniverse” series highlights Quezon’s hunger for Philippine independence and power, as well as his “chameleon” behavior.
TBA Studios began the “Bayaniverse” series, movies based on Philippine history, with “Heneral Luna” in 2015, followed by “Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral” in 2018, under the direction of Jerrold Tarog.
The film focuses on Quezon (portrayed by Jericho Rosales) and his rise to power before the Commonwealth, highlighting his political maneuvering.
READ: ‘Gayang gaya’: Jericho Rosales’ role in ‘Quezon’ excites Filipinos
Driven by his desire for Philippine independence, Quezon sought to gain influence and shape the system to his advantage, including testing and repairing his relationship with Sergio Osmeña (portrayed by Romnick Sarmenta).
Though the two politicians worked side by side, they clashed in Congress over strategy and legislation. Despite their differences, they collaborated to push for independence when Governor-General Leonard Wood (portrayed by Iain Glen) assumed office.
READ: ‘What an adventure’: ‘Quezon’ star Iain Glen shares filming experience in Philippines
After Wood’s death, Quezon and Osmeña filed the Hare-Hawes-Cutting Act, a bill advocating for Philippine independence. Quezon later filed the Tydings-McDuffie Act, which had a similar objective.
The struggle for power also extended to Emilio Aguinaldo (portrayed by Mon Confiado), who ran for the presidency. During the campaign, Aguinaldo uncovered some of Quezon’s secrets, while Quezon used strategic maneuvers to secure his political survival and victory.
The film offers a different perspective on Quezon, revealing aspects of his character not usually covered in school lessons. It humanizes the man behind the roads, cities, and provinces named after him, showing a leader willing to risk everything to climb the political ladder, a “chameleon” who adapts to circumstances while advocating for the country’s independence.
In his political disputes with Osmeña and Aguinaldo, Quezon also used tactics that damaged the reputations of former allies.
The film depicts how he maneuvered others to support his plans, including schemes to remove Osmeña from the House and Governor-General Wood from his post.
His push for the Tydings-McDuffie Act further highlighted Quezon’s desire to be recognized for his efforts toward Philippine independence.
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One might say that the chameleon is still playing the political game today.
The film draws parallels between Quezon’s rise to power and current government issues, reflecting how some politicians take actions that can damage reputations to advance their careers. Others adjust their beliefs and principles to align with parties or gain personal advantage.
The desire for recognition is also evident in some officials, who have been criticized for prominently displaying their names on relief efforts or infrastructure projects.
Beyond being a lens to the past, the film invites the public to “cross the avenue” and see the other side of politicians and ongoing political issues.
Apart from Jericho, Romnick and Mon, the cast includes Cris Villanueva, Karylle, JC Santos, Aaron Villaflor, Jake Macapagal, Bodjie Pascua, Angeli Bayani, Jojit Lorenzo, Joross Gamboa, Therese Malvar, Ana Abad Santos, Ketchup Eusebio and Nico Locco.
“Quezon” premiered on October 15 in cinemas nationwide and will be screened internationally in the following countries:
- Australia and New Zealand: October 30
- USA, Guam, and Canada: October 31
- Middle East: November 20
Last Thursday, October 23, Quezon’s grandson, Ricky Avanceña, expressed his frustrations about the film’s portrayal of his grandfather during a talkback session with the cast and crew.
Actor John Arcilla, who played General Antonio Luna in “Heneral Luna” and is also a Quezon descendant, likewise weighed in on the film’s controversial angle and said he understands Avanceña’s concerns.
READ: ‘I feel you ‘nsan’: Manuel Quezon’s kin John Arcilla weighs in amid ‘Quezon’ film controversy
