Pinky Amador Condemns Biopic for Sensationalism
The Controversy Surrounding the Film "Quezon" and the Voices of Its Descendants
The historical film "Quezon" has sparked a heated debate, particularly among descendants of the second Philippine president, Manuel L. Quezon. Actress Pinky Amador, who is also a descendant of the former president, shared her thoughts on the film and the controversy it has generated.
The discussions intensified after a talkback session following a screening of the film, where Ricky Avancena, another descendant of Manuel L. Quezon, criticized the movie. Avancena questioned director Jerrold Tarog about whether the film was intended as a political satire. When Tarog confirmed this, Avancena further expressed that the film was "a joke." He claimed that the filmmaker had "opened Pandora's Box" by addressing topics related to the Quezon family's past actions.
Avancena, in his emotional outburst, reportedly said, "Hindi niyo alam ano ginawa niyo dahil kayo, gusto niyo kumita ng pera at sumikat... mahiya kayo," which translates to "You don't know what you're doing because you want to make money and become famous... be ashamed." He also mentioned that he had seen the film three times that week and accused actor Rosales of "canceling a Quezon" for attempting to respond to a direct descendant of Quezon.
Actor John Arcilla, known for his role in "Heneral Luna" and also a descendant of Quezon, responded to Avancena's post. He emphasized the importance of consulting living relatives when making films about historical figures. Arcilla suggested that the film's satirical approach might be the best defense against criticism, as it portrayed the early rigodons of political opponents and some of the "actings."
Amador, who attended the screening where Avancena shared his views, took to Instagram to express her own perspective. She praised the film's technical aspects and performances, noting that TBA Studios might have aimed to make a bold statement with their latest Bayaniverse entry to gain more traction and sales.
However, she raised concerns about the film's use of sensationalism and shock value. "How to do that? Sensationalism. Shock value. Alternative treatment. As a creative, of course I get all that… but at WHO[SE] EXPENSE?" she questioned.
Amador pointed out that the film was funded by billionaires and had the "MACHINERY to debunk any argument made against the film." She also highlighted the Philippines' educational crisis, where 24 million Filipinos struggle with functional literacy, and 91% of 10-year-olds cannot read simple texts. Films endorsed by the Department of Education, such as "Quezon," are used as sources of information for millions, but they present only one side, leading to miseducation rather than poor storytelling.
In a video she posted, Amador addressed the talkback session's panel, stating that films like "Quezon" have greater influence, and the public no longer takes time to do their research. Director Tarog clarified that he wanted to do right by his sources, which Amador respected. However, she still believes in "treading a fine line" with the prevalence of "cancel culture."
Amador shared that her grandmother and Ricky's mother, Maria Zeneida "Nina" Quezon Avancena, greatly inspired her. Nina protested on the streets during the Marcos dictatorship even in her old age. "I surmise that the creatives of this film are just as cunning, Machiavellian, and manipulative as the anti-hero they produced," she said in the comments section of her post.
The actress concluded by acknowledging that she may never work with the filmmakers and receive hate from her fellow creatives. However, she stressed that she was speaking out on behalf of her ancestors "no longer here to defend themselves."
"Quezon" chronicles the politician's life through the lens of the four rivalries he faced during his rise to power. It stars Jericho Rosales in his first film in seven years.
