Biopic bares story of how PH saved thousands of Jews

In 1938, Philippine President Manuel L. Quezon opened the Philippines’ doors to more than a thousand Austrian and German Jews fleeing for their lives. Photo courtesy of Quezon’s Game

08 January 2020 LONDON—Highly acclaimed biographical drama, Quezon’s Game, will be released in UK cinemas beginning with a film in concert and premiere at Troxy on 28 January to be followed by multiple public screenings in major UK cinemas from 31 January. 

The film features the seldom told story of Philippine President Manuel L. Quezon who in 1938 opened the Philippines’ doors to more than 1300 Austrian and German Jews escaping fascist European regimes.

“The film gives the world a glimpse of the moral courage of Filipinos during one of the darkest moments in world history,” said Ambassador Antonio M. Lagdameo.  “It’s a story of bayanihan and pakikipagkapwa for today’s generation to emulate.”

Quezon's Game stars Raymond Bagatsing, Rachel Alejandro, and Kate Alejandrino and is directed by Matthew E. Rosen who makes his feature-length directorial debut. The film has received acclaim at numerous festivals, including 12 awards at the Cinema WorldFest Awards in Canada and four at The WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival.

About the Event

In 1938, Philippine President Manuel Quezon, future U.S. President Dwight Eisenhower, and several other notable figures set out to rescue Jewish refugees from the ghettos of Germany and Austria. What seems within their power at first, turns out to be fraught with astronomical obstacles. On top of this, Quezon must battle a relapse of tuberculosis. In his final days, Quezon asks the question "Could I have done more?" before recollecting one of the least known, but most uplifting stories in Philippine history.

View the trailer here.

Film in Concert and Premier

Public Screening