John Arcilla backs up fellow Quezon descendant on 'Quezon' film criticism

John Arcilla expressed his support for his cousin, Ricky Quezon Avanceña, over his criticism of the film "Quezon."

Ricky, who is the grandson of former president Manuel L. Quezon, went viral for his tirade against the cast and filmmakers during the Q&A portion of a screening.

Ricky also took to social media and aired his sentiments, encouraging Quezon followers to defend the former president.

John, who played Antonio Luna's character in Tarog's "Heneral Luna," commented on his post and said that the production should have consulted their family first.

"I, or anyone else, cannot blame you. Our family is still very much alive; they should have considered consulting the direct descendants and relatives," John wrote.

"The reason no one has made a film about Juan Luna, for instance, is that his wife's family does not want the story told from someone else's point of view—and I am not sure that principle applies here as well, especially since the direct descendants who are still alive were not even consulted," he added. 

John added that while they could not blame anyone personally, they believed the family was entitled to express concern or seek clarification.

"We share the same sentiment. 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," he wrote.

The "Heneral Luna" actor also commented on the film's tone, saying that while it appeared to take a satirical approach, the portrayal of Quezon's character felt overly "direct and preachy."

"It looked satirical in the way they styled the early rigodons of political opponents and some of the actings, but the content itself doesn't feel like one," they said. 

"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," he ended.

Following the heated Q&A talkback session, TBA Studios, the film production behind "Quezon" released a statement saying that the film is "grounded in verified historical accounts, including President Quezon's own autobiography and other reputable sources."

The last installment of the "Bayaniverse" trilogy, "Quezon" follows the life of Manuel L. Quezon, a lawyer and a soldier who became the President of the Commonwealth of the Philippines from 1935 to 1944. It is currently showing in 400 theaters nationwide.

—Jade Veronique Yap/MGP, GMA Integrated News