The Explainer: Manolo Quezon reviews ‘Quezon’ the movie

Imagine getting a film review directly from the family. That's precisely what unfolded when Manuel L. Quezon III, grandson of the revered Philippine president, offered his unique take on the new biopic, 'Quezon.' It sparks an intriguing discussion: when does a historical film transcend the traditional biopic, or even historical fiction, to become something altogether different?

This eagerly awaited film, 'Quezon,' brings the curtain down on TBA Studios’ ambitious 'Bayaniverse' trilogy, which captivated audiences with 'Heneral Luna' in 2015 and continued with 'Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral' in 2018. A notable thread connecting all three historical dramas is director Jerrold Tarog, a versatile filmmaker also well-known for helming multiple installments of the enduring local horror franchise, 'Shake, Rattle and Roll.'

Tarog's diverse directorial portfolio naturally leads to a fascinating inquiry: could his extensive experience in the horror genre have influenced the perspective through which 'Quezon' portrays the historical figure and his significant era? As Manolo Quezon suggests, the film delves into numerous 'frightful things,' some of which, he notes, are not easily attributable to the former Philippine president himself, prompting a re-evaluation of cinematic historical narratives.