Mike de Leon Blows Up the Comments Section on the Official 'Citizen Jake' Page
Citizen Jake has found itself in the middle of a controversial social media word war between director Mike De Leon and lead actor Atom Araullo.
In case you missed it: Last week, just days before the film's nationwide theatrical release, De Leon called Araullo out on his convictions, his work as a journalist, and to some extent, his acting. Araullo played it cool for a few days before issuing a measured response yesterday. De Leon then hit back with more specific anecdotes, ultimately calling Araullo a narcissist. It's been brutal, and ultimately, it feels like no one really wins.
And because this entire feud happened (is happening?) on social media, with De Leon releasing statements using the official Citizen Jake Facebook page, the comments section has taken on a life of its own, and is now in itself an important part of the story. The page—ostensibly De Leon himself—has been actively replying to people and opening up some interesting points of discussion. Here are some of the highlights:
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Some of Mike De Leon's comments addressed his rift with Araullo head on with additional thoughts and anecdotes. Consider this the "expanded universe" of the feud:
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One of the most interesting issues tackled in the comments was about the separation of film and filmmaker. Should Citizen Jake and its message be affected by behind-the-scenes drama?
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He would also share his thoughts on the other behind-the-scenes realities of filmmaking.
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Also, of course, the difficulties of film distribution here in the Philippines.
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And he even hinted at the possibility of another project.
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Other times, De Leon was just serving tea.
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(This last one is true. Ferdinand Marcos actually did make it to the Guiness Book of Records for "Greatest robbery of a government.")
