Hi Jake! Thank you so much for taking the time to speak to me! To start us off I wanted to ask what drew you to acting? When did you know that this was going to be the path you perused?
Jessica Chastain Theatre GIF by Tony AwardsGiphyThank you for your time as well. Watching a musical play in Grade School brought me to acting. I remember vividly the silence in the theatre, the space, the awe that I felt watching a live performance. I pursued it through this medium all throughout my teenage years and could only dream of being in the movies. I realised then the importance of training by experience by joining a variety of Theatre groups in Manila. I landed in an Educational TV show in the 90's but fell back to investing in and honing my skills in Musicals. By 2007 the Independent Film Industry opened its doors for actors like me and I eventually became an active auditionee and participant.
Your upcoming show, ‘No Escape’ has released in a few countries and within the next few weeks is going to be available even more widely! What is it like leading up to the release of a project? What emotions are involved right before the show then belongsthe viewers?
I have been feeling extremely restless, both in the past and presently. I am slowly trying to teach myself not to be concerned, even though I am, and it's unnecessary. This is a period of heightened anxiety, and despite my efforts to persuade myself to relax, my naturally curious nature keeps me eagerly anticipating positive updates, which is quite amusing!
Tell me a little bit about Colonel Justin Reyes. What do you think the character brings to the show?
Relaxed Rachel Brosnahan GIF by The Marvelous Mrs. MaiselGiphySo, Reyes is tasked with finding the unlikely ransom thieves – who turn out to be a bunch of young western travelers, yachting and partying their way around the Philippines. Reyes presents as a noble but lonely figure, fighting for justice in a world of injustice. A man of principle. At least he was. And what remains of those principles tell him that the world he lives in stinks.
Still on the topic of Justin, what is your hope fans take from the character? What was the most valuable thing you took from playing Justin?
That he is just human with ideals that contradict itself. It is a recognition that he, like any other individual, is fallible and subject to the complexities of human nature. His ideals, although admirable on the surface, often reveal inherent contradictions or inconsistencies when closely examined. This acknowledgement highlights the inherent complexity and contradictions that can exist within a single person, emphasizing the inherent flaws and struggles that are part of the human condition.
If you had to sum up the plot of ‘No Escape’ in three words to hook my readers what would they be?
Bill Hader Snl GIF by Saturday Night LiveGiphySurvival, Chaos, Escape.
I would love to talk a bit about Metro Manila, what has it been like seeing the response the movie has gotten in the decade (!!) since itsrelease?
One of the most interesting experiences in my career was working on the film Metro Manila, which won at Sundance. It was unexpected on all fronts, considering its low budget and guerrilla-style production. Despite the challenges, the film surpassed expectations and received well-deserved recognition. Being part of this project was an extraordinary journey that showcased the dedication and talent of the entire team. It taught me the power of perseverance and collaboration and solidified my passion for storytelling. Working on Metro Manila was a transformative experience that continues to shape my career.
I know that representation in media is something that is so important to you (and should be to everyone!) and what i wanted to ask along those lines was in your opinion, what strides can we as consumers make to assure that’s something that only keeps progressing?
Power To The People Peace GIF by INTO ACTIONGiphyI follow new voices like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's lectures, it is educational, brave, and sharp. Try to listen and educate yourself about the importance of representation, the challenges faced by marginalized communities, and the impact of media on society. Stay informed about current issues and developments in the field of representation. This knowledge could empower you to contribute more effectively to the ongoing progress. Remember the progress of representation in media requires sustained effort from consumers, creators, and industry stakeholders. By actively participating in these strides, you help create a more inclusive and equitable media landscape.
Thank you so much for taking this time to answer my questions! Is there any other projects you’d like to plug? Anything fans can look forward to as we come up on the last half of the year?
Currently, I am involved in multiple exciting projects, and one that stands out is a compelling drama centered around the trafficking of undocumented Filipino immigrants in Los Angeles. Let us celebrate diversity, we are creating a culture that values and appreciates human experiences.
Connect with me:
Connect with Jake Macapagal:
Hermes, Euridice, and OrpheusPlaybill.com
Hades and PersephonePlaybill.com
