Saturday, June 21, 2008
Fuego en la Sangre, 06/20/08: Ask Me No Questions and I’ll Tell You No Lies
Outside the Hacienda Juan is about to jump over the top of the high stone wall in back of the hacienda in hopes of speaking with Sofia. Rosendo walks around the corner, spots him in mid-climb and aims his gun at him. “Don’t move or you die! What ya doin’ here at this hour, Juan? Eh? Won’t talk?” Rosendo taunts him. “Get haulin’. Let’s go see Doña Gabriela and see if you can talk then.” Juan starts to back away from the wall when suddenly Oscar and Franco gallop in to save him with a little lassoing of poor Rosendo, who ends up face down (with the gun presumably knocked out of his grip) on the ground. Juan whistles to Capricho and jumps on. The three race off (¡Ay, je je-ayi!) as Juan is saved from another mortifying tongue-lashing by Crabiela in a scene worthy of a one chug salute. (¡Salud!)
Inside the hacienda a tad later, Rosendo is telling Eva in the grand hallway what just happened while sneaky Sarita eavesdrops from the upstairs balcony. “It was those bricklayers and I think they were coming here to rob something,” Rosendo says. Eva feels that there could be another explanation and that she knows them to be good young men; she’ll answer for them if needed. Rosendo argues that it’s his duty to report them. Eva says she knows he is looking out for the hacienda as he’s supposed to, but unnecessarily upsetting Doña Gabriela might cause her to have another “spell.” She says there’ll be time to clear things up later. So reluctantly Rosendo agrees to stay quiet only because he feels she cares as much about the family as he does.
Upstairs in Sofia’s bedroom Augie explains to his granddaughter about that night. He was extremely drunk and although it’s still very hazy, he remembers he was not driving and they had thrown him into the back seat. He admits (as we in Viewerville look tearfully on) that he gave his wife a lot of grief during their marriage and that his drinking was a terrific vice. He curses it knowing how much his wife hated his drinking. He tells Sofia that he has paid dearly, but his worst punishment is not being left in a wheelchair. “It’s that,” sobs our charming Augie in a somewhat excruciating one-hanky scene, “I treated your grandmother so badly and that I never had the chance to ask her forgiveness.” Sofia is filled with pity and tries to comfort him.
Across the hall meanwhile, Gabi is on her bed playing possum while Jimena and Sarita anxiously watch over her. She hears her two daughters discussing what she told them about their granddad being the cause of their grandmother’s death. Jimena finds it hard to imagine, but Sarita, with a new reason to show her contempt for everything and everyone around her, is spitting mad to think Augie could have done something so cruel and thoughtless. She says she now understands why Mama treats him the way she does.
Gabi smiles inwardly to think her plan against her father has succeeded with the two of them. “Ha! Now my daughters will loathe him although he isn’t to blame for a thing.” She thinks to herself that never ever will anyone know the truth: that she was the one driving the car her parents were in the night her mother died! (Oh, no! Say it ain’t so!) She thinks back then to the incident revealing that the neurotic bitch was not paying close enough attention along that tiny two-lane winding country road in the dark. In fact Gabi was too busy that night watching Augie loll in her rear-view mirror and telling her mother how disgusting he was, advising her to leave the slug. That’s why SHE missed the curve and SHE crashed into an oncoming car.
Gabi apparently came to and realized what had happened. She saw that her mother was now dead and realized that she was the one to blame for her death. She found her father thrown from the back seat of the car and lying unconscious on the side of the road next to the door and, in a paroxysm of projection, began to scream at him that it was entirely his fault. So rather than take the blame herself, she lifted the unconscious Augie (the woman must have had cast iron pulleys for arms and hands to move 200 lbs. of dead weight like that) into the driver’s seat to make it look like he had been driving instead.
========
We beam back to the bakery where Juan is thanking his brothers for rescuing him. Franco reminds him that Oscar specifically asked him not to get mixed up in those kinds of problems again. Oscar adds that it was a good thing they decided to look for him. He has Juan going for a bit and Juan defends himself. “I only wanted to find Sofia and clear things up!” Oscar frowns and says yeah, they should be upset, but they understand that what he does he does …“in the name of luhhhv” and lets out with a big guffaw. “No biggie, bro’!” They all have a big laugh and Franco takes a minute then to tell his brothers about Ofelia’s visit and Rosario’s strange disappearance. He says that Ofelia was worried Rosario and the boy could be in danger.
=========
Upstairs in Sofia’s room with Jimena looking on, Sarita lites into Eva warning her not to deny what she herself just heard Rosendo telling her about the Reyes’ coming to the house earlier and that he was certain they came to rob the hacienda. Eva tells them she wasn’t about to deny anything. She explains then to Sofia that Juan was in the hacienda but that Rosendo caught him and Juan’s brothers showed up right after and rescued him. Sarita still considers that proof that the Reyes’ were there to cause problems for the family.
Chuckling a bit to herself, Sofia tries patiently to explain to Sarita that she had agreed to meet Juan in the afternoon and when she didn’t show he must have come looking for her. Sarita is fit to be tied and won’t give an inch. She insists she is going to blab about it to Mama ASAP! Jimena stops her first and begs her not to make things around there any more difficult than they already are. Sofia steps forward and asks her if she is going to side against all of them forever, but Eva is the one who loses her patience with the nasty nit-wit. She yells at Sarita to “for the love of God” just listen to her sisters, already! (Can’t somebody just tie her braids to the doorknob of an obscure closet somewhere?) Sarita eventually agrees to hold off for now but says as soon as she has the proof that she needs that the Reyes’ were intending to harm the family, all bets are off.
Juan and his brothers go to the Bad Love Bar which is now deader than a doornail without its star attraction. They strut in intending to find out where Rosario and her son went. Oscar jokes about the funeral going on there and, after hassling Juan about ordering milk again in a scene that is a wince-worthy parody of itself, the barkeep says he doesn’t know where Rosario has gone, just that when she’s not there the place is a real loser of a proposition. (From his lips to Rosario’s ears… God willing and the creeks don’t rise!) Armando walks in on the Reyes’ just then and asks what in the blazes they want since they know they aren’t exactly welcome there.
Oscar claims to hear a squealing rat. Armando dares him to say that again, and Franco tells him he heard right, a squealing, stinking cowardly rat…..Armando tells them to git but Juan threatens to rip the place to shreds again so he’d better answer the question or else. Oscar says ditto unless he wants all the pretty tables and chairs and patrons all messed up again. Oscar is certain Armando will not like the topsy-turvy way they will leave the place so he better answer them and quick! (What a useless waste of good, hawt, swaggering machismo considering there’s only Armando there right now.) Armando clams up and says he doesn’t know a thing. The brothers start slapping him and throwing him around a bit. Then Franco, squinching up his baby-face to look as mean as he possibly can, grabs Armando by the collar and yells at him to tell him where she is.
===========
At the hacienda Augie wants to tell his granddaughters the truth as he remembers it but Sarita, who has now turned into a rabid she-dog (evidence that she is truly her mother’s daughter), won’t let the old guy get a word in edgewise. She rips into him and hisses that Mama has already told them all about it. He defends himself and says Gabi’s version isn’t the truth. Sarita won’t listen. “Mama wouldn’t lie about such a sensitive (delicate) subject!” and she accuses him again of killing their grandmother.
Sofia and Jimena warn Sarita off him. Sofia yells at her not to make judgments unless she has some proof. Sarita yells back that Mama knows him best and if Mama says it’s so then it must be. Jimena loses patience and tells her to shut up about Mama all the time and to try using her own brain. (Is anybody else ready to just give the witch-clone a broom with training wheels and throw her off the balcony to see how fast she can learn to fly?) Sarita screams back that SHE believes her mother and then stomps out of the room. Augie yells after her and begs her to come back to listen to him.
Back at the bar Armando is still getting b!tch-slapped by the Reyes’ when suddenly Rosario walks into the bar with her son. Mystery solved. The guys are WTF? impactado to see her just appear like that and are left looking like a bunch of complete asses. The biggest jackass though, is Armando, who runs over and hides behind her and the little boy!
In her dressing room Rosario is telling a bewildered (audience and) Franco that when she got her son back she promised that she would dedicate her life to him, and she again asks him to forget about her. Confused by her abrupt appearance (aren’t we all) and strange behavior, he refuses to allow himself to be separated from her this way. Rosario insists she wants to be left in peace and says that he should go back to Sarita or wherever and find happiness with somebody else. Franco doesn’t believe her attempts to remain indifferent towards him, but says that because she is asking it he will go and he steadfastly swears that he will never forget her.
Back at the hacienda again, Fernando mentions to Gabi that he overheard her conversation with Eva and gathered from it that Eva believes that Rosario is her daughter. She says that’s Eva’s version of things. Feigning concern for Gabriela’s peace of mind, Feo says he has arranged for Rosario to develop a close relationship with Eva. Gabi smiles and tells him he’s so thoughtful. (Gag attack!) She gushes over the way he always thinks of her. She’s been thinking of him also, she says and so she’s prevented Sofia from leaving the hacienda and fed her a big story so that she’ll get her grandfather to sign those documents they need. Fer gushes back at her and tells her how alike the two of them are. He kisses her hands (Skin crawl attack!) and says they’re made for one another. They stare into each other’s eyes --a bit too long-- and this time she allows herself to betray a smidgen of utterly unwholesome non-maternal-in-law desire.
=================
We are back in the Reyes’ bedroom once more. Franco, in his Cheer-white skivvies and undershirt is once again lying atop his bed and thinking back to his time making love to Rosario at the lake. He swears he’ll never forget her but immediately begins to think of smiling, innocent Sarita (who??) and wonders what his problem is and which of them he needs to choose.
As for our barking bitch, Sarita is writing yet another love letter to Franco in which she tells him his absence is extremely painful for her and it is difficult treating him the way she has. (R-i-i-i-i-ght!) She can’t avoid it though because his indifference towards her has hurt her so greatly. (Talk to the hand, girl, cuz this face ain’t listenin’ anymore.) She thinks to herself that she is so in love with him and feels she couldn’t love anyone the way she loves him.
Meanwhile in town, outside the little stable Oscar is unsaddling his horse and remembering the nasty way Jimena turned down his proposal without a word of explanation. He is still determined to marry her. At the same time back at the hacienda, Jimena is up in her room looking at the engagement ring from Octavio and wishing it was Oscar’s. In the darkened bakery back in town Juan is miserable remembering his night on the mountainside with Sofia in his arms professing her undying love for him. Sofia meanwhile is lying on her pillow and hugging her belly. Smiling to herself she whispers aloud, “I love you Juan. I’m having this baby of yours because of our love. Our child! Our child!”
=================
At breakfast the next morning Jimena tells Gabi that she’s decided to marry Octavio whenever her mother says. Gabi answers with a huge smile on her face. (I’m almost waiting for cracks to appear and a skull to show through.) She assures Jimena that the only thing she wants is her daughter’s happiness. Sofia is visibly uncomfortable with Jimena’s decision.
At the bakery this morning Oscar is counting cash receipts and tells Franco that they’ll need to get back to getting him singing gigs with the Mariachis. Franco says they need to get a little extra cash anyway since Juan’s birthday is coming up. Oscar knows the perfect gift: a pair of silver spurs, just like he’s always wanted.
After breakfast Fernando finds Sofia in the front hall and informs her that the hacienda is out of cash and without her grandfather’s signature he’s got to go to the bank and ask for a loan. This time he will have to mortgage the hacienda to get it. She refuses to have him mortgage the hacienda and blames him for the economic problems. She says Fernando is obviously not capable of administering the hacienda if it’s come to this. (Sofia, this we know is a fundamental truism concerning Feo, but what an amateurishly petty response for a business discussion!) Fernando says to stop being so critical and realize that either Don Augustin signs the papers for the cash they’ll need (right response, wrong reason) or the place will be mortgaged.
Later that morning in the bakery Juan is busy looking over his newest creations: heart shaped cakes with squiggles in the middle symbolizing the “S” in Sofia’s name. Juan marvels at his masterpiece (but this time we are spared the magical appearance of her smiling face in the center of it). Oscar and Franco cannot control themselves they’re snickering so much and Juan runs them off.
Alone in her bedroom in front of her mirror Gabi again thinks about Fernando telling her that she is still a very attractive and desirable woman who many men would take notice of. She is literally so excited at the idea that she unbuttons her shirt collar and gets an X-rated grin on her face.
Padre Tadeo visits the bakery and samples the new Sofi-cakes. He’s sure they’ll be a hit. He mentions afterward that now the cottage is finished he would appreciate it if the Reyes brothers would help him fix the church up a little bit. They agree to meet him over at the church in a few minutes to take a look at the things he needs repaired.
Meanwhile, Sofia and Eve managed to sneak away from the hacienda and drive into town to start looking for Juan and they have parked near the church. Fernando discovers not too long after that they’ve gone into town and runs in to tell Gabi.
Sofia spies Juan and the others in the churchyard and runs over with a big smile on her face. She says that she has something very important to tell him. Suddenly, Mama has Nonefer Nando trailing close behind while hurrying to make her way over to Sofia. (I admit to having flashbacks of the Wizard of Oz here and Dorothy’s nasty neighbor, Almira Gulch, going after Toto.) Gabi yells to get Sofia’s attention and then barks a question about why she’s there with “those bricklayers.” Fernando grabs Sofia’s arm and pulls her away from them and complains that he’s tired of her making him endure such ridicule and embarrassment. Juan lunges for Nonefer but his brothers and Tadeo pull him away.
Sofia screams for Fernando to let her go and breaks free of him. “I’ve told you we have separate lives now. You and I have nothing to do with each other anymore!” He asks her if she’s gone crazy and says he never really considered what she told him. She answers back that he should have if he’d really wanted to avoid being embarrassed and ridiculed the way he says. Mama steps in then and slaps Sofia so hard she nearly falls. Tadeo screams “How dare you!” at Gabi and Sofia coolly advises her not to try it again. She says she is leaving home and once Gabi knows the truth she wouldn’t want her around anyway. Gabi asks her what truth? In front of everyone Sofia declares that she’s is expecting a child.
Nonefer stops in his tracks because he’s just been singled out as the latest and greatest cuckold of Ciudád Serdán. Juan is knock-me-over-with-a-feather impactado cuz he knows he’s got to be the baby daddy. Tadeo, Eva, and the other Reyes brothers are waiting for a major explosion from Gabriela. Sofia turns around and flashes a big special smile at Juan (which cannot possibly have been so totally lost on Nonefer) and she leaves with Eva. Surprisingly, Gabi gives everyone a huge triumphant smile and heads off with her stunned SIL still in tow.
Afterward Oscar, Franco and Padre Tadeo congratulate Juan on being an expectant papa. They all warn him, though, to hold back before speaking any further with Sofia about it, considering she’s already got enough of a mess on her hands with her family situation at home. Juan agrees to control himself and receives Tadeo’s blessing.
Back in the truck Gabriela smiles at Fernando and tells him this is terrific news. She says she assumes his silence is from all the emotion he must be feeling at the moment. (You betcha!) The baby, she says smiling, will end up uniting the family so now he and Sofia can live together peacefully, just as it ought to be.
Across town, meanwhile, Hortensia informs Quintina that her son spoke with the police inspectors and they told him the truck accident was no accident at all. Somebody cut the brake line and wanted to kill them. Quintina cannot imagine who would want to see her and Don Augustin dead.
Back now at the hacienda, Fernando enters Sofia’s room uninvited and menacingly locks the door. He demands to know who the father of her child is. Sofia refuses to tell him. He calls her a whore and strikes her across the face knocking her onto the bed. Sofia gets back up immediately and warns him not to ever touch her again. “Get lost! Leave the hacienda now and don’t you ever come back!”
Feo seems genuinely stunned at her response. He starts to weep sincerely after her standing up to him. “No, don’t send me away from you like this, Sofia. You’ve got to understand this has been a… very… hard… blow for me!” He wrings his hands. “Ay! I never expected THIS!” He has a wounded puppydog expression on his face now. “I had always thought you and I would make a family together,” he whines. Sofia is steaming mad and frustrated beyond belief. “You fed yourself false hopes then because you didn’t listen to me! I told you a thousand times I don’t love you, that I never loved you! Besides, you can’t complain to me about anything. I was always honest with you.”
Nonefer whines some more, “—But you cheated on me!” He bends over, filled with anguish. “—No, I never cheated on you,” she says. “—But I don’t understand!” he answers, totally bewildered. “How is it possible? You told me over and over you couldn’t stand to be touched.” He stammers in consternation. “Th-th-that’s why we were s-s-s-leeping in separate bedrooms!” (You’ve got me glued to the screen, here, Guillermo! ¡Qué evocador!) Sofia tries to explain the change in her emotions. “—I couldn’t stand for anyone to touch me, yes. But the father of my child made me feel things that I had never felt for anybody! He succeeded with love, with tenderness and patience in making me overcome my fear of what happened to me and for the first time I found out what it was to hand one’s self over to love. Do you understand?” (Ha! Not this sniveling sociopathic swine.)
Feo rushes at her and calls her a whore again. He pushes her onto the bed. ‘I’m embarrassed just listening to you!” Then he grabs her and begs pathetically for her to give him “the dog’s” name. “Give me the name of the dog who stole your heart from me!” “—Nobody stole anything! My heart was never yours and now it only belongs to him!” He threatens her now, crazy from grief. “You are going to pay dearly! I will make you pay dearly!” and he takes off his belt. He makes a strap and cracks it, threatening to beat her with it.
Sofia gets back up and warns him off her. “I told you not to hit me again and I’ve got plenty of reason now to fight and come out ahead in this! So you better be careful because you have no idea what a woman in love is capable of!” Amazingly Feo backs down. (Hey, Rosario. Word up! Get a bit of backbone and ferocious Feo will turn into a fawning furry feline entity.) He puts his belt back on and says she is mistaken if she thinks it will be that easy to get rid of him. Sofia asks if he is intent on making her life miserable. He says not at all. He’s actually prepared to show her how much he really loves her and to do anything at all to ensure she’s drawn back to him.
Feo unlocks the door and gives her the keys back. He grandly offers to adopt her child and raise him as his own. (Lovely thought, ain’t it?) He says he will make sure the child never lacks for anything. Sofia refuses his offer graciously then says the child already has a father who will care for him. They won’t need a thing from Feo. As she turns away from him his veiled stare turns dangerously vile.
=============
Juan, who is impatient to see Sofia, tells his brothers that he cannot bear being without her. He really needs to speak with her. They tell him again to be cautious and laid back. Oscar and Franco say he’s got to calm down because Sofia has enough problems to deal with right now. Anyway, she is a grown woman and can take care of herself. If she needs him for anything she will certainly come and find him. For now he needs to just back off and let things be.
So Juan gallops off to Libia’s tomb with another Ay! Je-je-ayi-i-i! and tells her that Sofia is expecting a child of his. He’s excited and happy he says because the child is a result of their love for each other. Libia has apparently heard and approves. Her flower glows magically.
At the same time Gabi is excitedly organizing an unexpected toast in the hacienda for the family to celebrate Sofia’s pregnancy. Augie comes down and asks what the circus is for and adds in an aside that perhaps her supposed illness has made her go crazy after all. Gabi says she refuses to let his sarcasm ruin her celebration. Augie says no doubt it’s a new way to torture him and so he’s not celebrating anything with her.
Sofia and Fernando come downstairs together and join the family in the living room. She and Eva both try to tell Gabriela that Sofia needs first to talk to her, but Gabi refuses to listen and lifts her wineglass. She announces to them all that Sofia and Fernando are expecting a child. Everyone is drop-jaw impactado. They stare at each other, totally dumbfounded by the news. Gabi doesn’t understand why the two of them won’t toast with her. “Why are you staring at each other like that?” Fernando, embarrassed, admits that the child isn’t his. Gabi drops her glass to the floor as everyone stares over at Sofia in stunned amazement.
Labels: Fuego
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Terrific recap, Jardinera. I am a little perplexed though. I thought that Crabi knew that Sofia and Fernando had never had sex. Goodness knows, he complained to her often enough.Why would she think the baby was his? And given her responses to his "flirting" with her, why would she be so happy that this will bring Sofia and Fer together?
I really enjoyed Oscar and Franco's reactions to Juan. He is so idiotic that I am beginning to wonder what Sofia sees in him --except for his hot body.
Although this telenovela remains ridiculous, at least it is improving insofar as there is some action other than Juan and Sofia kissing and telling each other they love one another with "todo mi alma." NJ Sue
I really enjoyed Oscar and Franco's reactions to Juan. He is so idiotic that I am beginning to wonder what Sofia sees in him --except for his hot body.
Although this telenovela remains ridiculous, at least it is improving insofar as there is some action other than Juan and Sofia kissing and telling each other they love one another with "todo mi alma." NJ Sue
Permalink posted by 
: Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 4:04:00 PM EDT
: Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 4:04:00 PM EDT
Thanks, NJ Sue! Yes, I am as confounded as you about Gabi's reaction. It's as if she refused to believe the obvious and somehow thought Feo had managed to seduce her daughter without letting on. It says something about that projection neurosis of hers, if I understand it properly.
Crabi reminds me of my daughter's first MIL. You could tell her something to her face and be looking her in the eye but if it wasn't what she wanted to hear she definitely wouldn't "hear" it. It used to drive my daughter nuts.
I loved the scene with Juan, his brothers and Padre Tadeo after they learn Juan is going to be a daddy! What sweetness from four grown men.
Thanks for the great recap, Jardinera!
Telenovelera in AZ
I loved the scene with Juan, his brothers and Padre Tadeo after they learn Juan is going to be a daddy! What sweetness from four grown men.
Thanks for the great recap, Jardinera!
Telenovelera in AZ
Permalink posted by : Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 4:32:00 PM EDT
: Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 4:32:00 PM EDT
Welcome, Telenovelera in AZ and thanks for joining the buzz saw here! Crabi Gabi is definitely the type of MIL we all dread becoming. ? ; > )
Loved the high-fiving between the brothers and Father Tadeo. Oh, you manly man--you fathered a baby.
What I didn't get was Father Tadeo's gleeful congratulations on the out-of-wedlock baby. I know he wants to get Sofia away from Juan, but isn't his endorsement of the illicit relationship odd for a priest?
What I didn't get was Father Tadeo's gleeful congratulations on the out-of-wedlock baby. I know he wants to get Sofia away from Juan, but isn't his endorsement of the illicit relationship odd for a priest?
It's funny that Sofia defiantly states to her mom that she's leaving the house and then gets into the SUV and leaves with Crabi and Feo to go back to the hacienda. It might have been a good time to hightail it back to the convent and the fighting nuns.
G in CA
G in CA
Permalink posted by : Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:40:00 PM EDT
: Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:40:00 PM EDT
Sorry, forgot to thank you for a great recap, Jardinera. You cleared a few points up for me and provided some snickers.
G in CA
G in CA
Permalink posted by : Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:43:00 PM EDT
: Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:43:00 PM EDT
Ninak: ITA and was thinking exactly the same thing about the illegitimate baby thing, but I figured the writers, who are generally an iconoclastic bunch worldwide, were doing their regular schtick. Odd that they should have Padre Tadeo make such a fuss about Mary Magdalen not being a mother and yet have him completely ignore the moral implications of an out of wedlock birth for true believers. Again, consider the source.
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G in Ca: Thanks! I do need to clarify that although Sofia ends up back at the hacienda, she left with Eva. Gabi and Feo drove off together a bit later in a different SUV. Sorry if I didn't make that very clear in the recap to everyone.
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G in Ca: Thanks! I do need to clarify that although Sofia ends up back at the hacienda, she left with Eva. Gabi and Feo drove off together a bit later in a different SUV. Sorry if I didn't make that very clear in the recap to everyone.
I think the whole evil sordid confession of the rape and trick marriage more than balances out the priest's natural dislike of the circumstances of Sofia's pregnancy.
Perhaps he's hoping that Juan will be able to really protect her from Ferd.
Gaby is really setting herself up for a fall.She should be glad that Miss Sofi is having a baby. Heaven knows her biological alarm clock must be going nuts.
Okay , Is anyone else sick of the telescoping effect that is used to emphasize something? It wouldn't be so bad without the 70's style sound effect.
The Libia lilly sound reminds me of Tinkerbelle. I keep waiting for Juan to say, "If you believe ....."
I miss the Oscar/Jimena moments. Sarita and Franco? Just don't see it. Why their very parenting styles would be seriously dissimilar.
Thank you for the recap!
MHM
Perhaps he's hoping that Juan will be able to really protect her from Ferd.
Gaby is really setting herself up for a fall.She should be glad that Miss Sofi is having a baby. Heaven knows her biological alarm clock must be going nuts.
Okay , Is anyone else sick of the telescoping effect that is used to emphasize something? It wouldn't be so bad without the 70's style sound effect.
The Libia lilly sound reminds me of Tinkerbelle. I keep waiting for Juan to say, "If you believe ....."
I miss the Oscar/Jimena moments. Sarita and Franco? Just don't see it. Why their very parenting styles would be seriously dissimilar.
Thank you for the recap!
MHM
Permalink posted by : Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 6:51:00 PM EDT
: Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 6:51:00 PM EDT
Thanks Jardinera, I always look forward to your recaps. I'm loving this novela even with its faults and unrealities. You gave us such a true picture of Sarita. I can't stand her. Initially I was hoping that she'd be Franco's choice. But now I hope she ends up empty handed. I don't care for helpless victim Rosario either though. But then again, Franco is my least favorite of the Reyes Bros. So, in a way I don't care what happens there. I really like Oscar so if Jimena doesn't stop messin with his feelings, she's going to go on my list also. Even though Father knows about the rape and the fact that the marriage was never consumated, I still think he's out of line to publicy condone both the extramarital relationship and the pregnancy.
Permalink posted by : Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 7:19:00 PM EDT
: Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 7:19:00 PM EDT
I think Father T. is so worried about the danger Fernando presents to Sofia, as said before, that he is happy that she has Juan's protection and love. But yes, he might have been a bit more discreet in his reaction to the baby news. (Sometimes I've felt that he has a crush on Sofia.) Maybe Mexican priests are more like Italian priests, and less like Irish priests...When I lived in Rome in the sixties and knew some priests and monks, I was really quite shocked at how "sophisticated" they were and the way they behaved.
Every time the Libia flower lights up, I laugh out loud. I also had quite a laugh at Juan's Sofia/S cake.
This telenovela is really keeping me from becoming crabby as i recover from knee surgery. And this blog never fails to amuse. NJ sue
Every time the Libia flower lights up, I laugh out loud. I also had quite a laugh at Juan's Sofia/S cake.
This telenovela is really keeping me from becoming crabby as i recover from knee surgery. And this blog never fails to amuse. NJ sue
Permalink posted by : Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 7:57:00 PM EDT
: Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 7:57:00 PM EDT
Anon 07:57 I agree with your observation that Father T's deep admiration of Sophia can easily be misconstrued as him having a crush on her. The loving way he looks at her and his protectiveness of her. Even his unwillingness to accept his higher authorities refusal to annul the marriage shows a deep concern for Sophi. You made an interesting point about the different priests though. I'm not catholic so I didn't realize there was any difference in their demeaner?
Permalink posted by : Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 9:24:00 PM EDT
: Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 9:24:00 PM EDT
Thanks for the recap. MHM yep I was having a Tinkerbelle moment too. I dunno, I think while the church frowns on out of wedlock marriage, they don't get that mad cause it's all good, another baby for the fold. I mean it's not like you get excommunitcated or anything. Where I live, a healthy percent of the kids are out of wedlock. How do I know this? I have attended many a wedding where the kid is a flower girl or ring bearers for his/her parents. It is all good.
Is there the remotest chance that Soy Dr. Mondragon could remove that radioactive rod from Sarita's Ass?
Is there the remotest chance that Soy Dr. Mondragon could remove that radioactive rod from Sarita's Ass?
Good point, Beckster. The sin can be forgiven, and an abortion would be a worse disaster. Still, the good father is supposed to at least give lip service to the idea of keeping it in the pants, no? (Hey, I'm not Catholic either, so what do I know.)
I thought birth control use is supposed to be a worse sin than giving birth out of wedlock or adulterous situations? Maybe the proof that birth control was not used is what is being celebrated by Padre Tadeo in this chapter?
Thank you Jardinera -- "Juan is busy looking over his newest creations: heart shaped cakes with squiggles in the middle symbolizing the “S” in Sofia’s name. Juan marvels at his masterpiece (but this time we are spared the magical appearance of her smiling face in the center of it)" -- Actually I thought that would have been the perfect touch! Thanks for the laugh!!
Thank you Jardinera -- "Juan is busy looking over his newest creations: heart shaped cakes with squiggles in the middle symbolizing the “S” in Sofia’s name. Juan marvels at his masterpiece (but this time we are spared the magical appearance of her smiling face in the center of it)" -- Actually I thought that would have been the perfect touch! Thanks for the laugh!!
Permalink posted by : Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 2:42:00 AM EDT
: Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 2:42:00 AM EDT
Thanks, folks! --As for the BC/conception/legitimacy dogma in question, obviously there are numerous sides to be considered and points for everyone to score on. I'm not Catholic either and the way the script is written could be past or present social commentary and/or societal reflection for all I know.
IMO whatever side viewers come down on, many or most of us have "generally" seen priests take the more traditional, conservative point of view in both real life as well as written portrayals. Tadeo's character is just a 3D figment of somebody's imagination and cannot think or feel anything its creator does not permit it to. So Tadeo's "holey" holy religious construct is no more than a reflection of the muddled mindset of a few rushed writers and directors on a time-clock, quickly slapping in formulaic dialogue to meet a schedule. In other words, the writers for this telenovela don't know themselves let alone care what Tadeo or any of the other characters sh/w/could think. They are just word mechanics earning a paycheck on a script assembly line pushing a 50 year old product and calling it primetime fare.
= /8 ? {
IMO whatever side viewers come down on, many or most of us have "generally" seen priests take the more traditional, conservative point of view in both real life as well as written portrayals. Tadeo's character is just a 3D figment of somebody's imagination and cannot think or feel anything its creator does not permit it to. So Tadeo's "holey" holy religious construct is no more than a reflection of the muddled mindset of a few rushed writers and directors on a time-clock, quickly slapping in formulaic dialogue to meet a schedule. In other words, the writers for this telenovela don't know themselves let alone care what Tadeo or any of the other characters sh/w/could think. They are just word mechanics earning a paycheck on a script assembly line pushing a 50 year old product and calling it primetime fare.
= /8 ? {
The writers are not rushed on this production at this point. It's still early, and Tadeo has simply been characterized as a human being, that's pretty clear.
He is one of the more truly faithful, dedicated priests I've seen in telenovelas. He has a passion for his calling and devotes himself completely to his charges.
I like him and think René is doing a good job with the character; individuals in Tadeo's position are both human beings and conduits, and sometimes they're one, sometimes another.
He is one of the more truly faithful, dedicated priests I've seen in telenovelas. He has a passion for his calling and devotes himself completely to his charges.
I like him and think René is doing a good job with the character; individuals in Tadeo's position are both human beings and conduits, and sometimes they're one, sometimes another.
Permalink posted by : Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 9:48:00 AM EDT
: Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 9:48:00 AM EDT
Jeri: Thanks for joining in. Again, perception is the key here, no? ?: ? )
Hubby, who has watched all but two of these telenovelas with me, wanted to join in too and says (I'm paraphrasing here) he thought the role of the clergy was to present dogma whether Tadeo agrees with it or not, and as such as part of the script he was obligated to remind his flock of the "rules" as it were. For whatever reason, he did not. No more no less.
I agree with you that it's not Rene's interpretation of the role, as Rene's being part of the cast gives his fans a reason to watch and brings us to the screen nightly. IMNSHO (and hubby's/some others of us?) it's the script which is lacking. I still believe that novelas are budgeted, run on a schedule and force its writers to push out pages of formulaic script daily and the faster they have to go the more holes that are left in the plot due to even crazier editing demands, all of which leads to the uneven day to day action and reaction of the characters. It's jarring. FELS is fun, light fare, but still overly formulaic and full of holes compared to Pasión, AEMP, El Manantial, or AR and Alborada.
Hubby, who has watched all but two of these telenovelas with me, wanted to join in too and says (I'm paraphrasing here) he thought the role of the clergy was to present dogma whether Tadeo agrees with it or not, and as such as part of the script he was obligated to remind his flock of the "rules" as it were. For whatever reason, he did not. No more no less.
I agree with you that it's not Rene's interpretation of the role, as Rene's being part of the cast gives his fans a reason to watch and brings us to the screen nightly. IMNSHO (and hubby's/some others of us?) it's the script which is lacking. I still believe that novelas are budgeted, run on a schedule and force its writers to push out pages of formulaic script daily and the faster they have to go the more holes that are left in the plot due to even crazier editing demands, all of which leads to the uneven day to day action and reaction of the characters. It's jarring. FELS is fun, light fare, but still overly formulaic and full of holes compared to Pasión, AEMP, El Manantial, or AR and Alborada.
From what I've seen, there's no basis to conclude that the role of the clergy in telenovelas is to present dogma. That would be in your esteemed husband's opinion. If anything, the role of the clergy in telenovelas is to be a repository of crucial secrets.
The dialog in this show is simplistic, but as I mentioned before, it is plotted with care. They do have a plan, they follow it, and they are consistent.
Every production has pressures; I don't think this one is pressured more than any others. It seems to be leisurely, in fact. They don't have time pressures, like for those telenovelas which are cut short for ratings reasons, for example.
Mejía at the outset said that every character, every scene in this show would be loaded with passion; and I think that is how they have characterized Tadeo as well.
I want to thank you in advance for your, I'm sure, excellent as usual summary. I haven't had a chance to listen to it yet; I came in to copy the text and the comments to put on my iPod and noticed the last comment.
The dialog in this show is simplistic, but as I mentioned before, it is plotted with care. They do have a plan, they follow it, and they are consistent.
Every production has pressures; I don't think this one is pressured more than any others. It seems to be leisurely, in fact. They don't have time pressures, like for those telenovelas which are cut short for ratings reasons, for example.
Mejía at the outset said that every character, every scene in this show would be loaded with passion; and I think that is how they have characterized Tadeo as well.
I want to thank you in advance for your, I'm sure, excellent as usual summary. I haven't had a chance to listen to it yet; I came in to copy the text and the comments to put on my iPod and noticed the last comment.
Permalink posted by : Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 11:02:00 AM EDT
: Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 11:02:00 AM EDT
Thanks Jardinera, the word mechanics and scripts lacking' reminder helps me put this novela into perspective. When I do watch, I have to use (many) filters and then I can see some humor in it. So, I can enjoy it for what it is...
jb
jb
Permalink posted by : Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 11:18:00 AM EDT
: Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 11:18:00 AM EDT
Thinking back to high school and college, you were obligated to read a certain book or watch an assigned movie if you wanted to pass the course. It didn't matter if you liked it or not, you had no choice. Well, from some of the comments I get the feeling that some people feel obligated to watch this novela. For example, the other day someone described how they edit and fast forward until they only watch about 5 minutes of this ridiculous show. For me, it would be a waste of my precious time to watch a show that I didn't really like. There's so many others out there to choose from.
Permalink posted by : Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 11:42:00 AM EDT
: Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 11:42:00 AM EDT
P.S. Just want to say I was not being sarcastic in reference to Jardinera's "esteemed husband," LOL. I'm pretty rarely sarcastic.
I've known Jardinera several years, and I rely on her husband to fill me in on all the makes of the sports cars in the novelas. ;-)
I've known Jardinera several years, and I rely on her husband to fill me in on all the makes of the sports cars in the novelas. ;-)
Permalink posted by : Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 11:47:00 AM EDT
: Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 11:47:00 AM EDT
Anon. 11:42AM -- "...it would be a waste of my precious time to watch a show that I didn't really like. There's so many others out there to choose from." I want to believe you are not a flamer and will respond as such. No, not true if you're desperate to practice your Spanish skills and can only get a single Spanish-speaking channel and it's Univision! They have a finite group of shows on that channel and they are definitely not the equivalent quality of 99.9% of U.S. productions. For some it's an obligation stemming from a desire to translate and bring the story to life for English-only speakers. For others, it's a matter of relating to the characters one gets to know intimately by watching them daily in varying situations. We here share an "addiction" of sorts as fans of anything might be said to have, and on this blog it's a means of commingling, commemorating and/or commiserating as the situation and the quality and/or lack thereof of a particular telenovela determines.
=/8 ? }
=/8 ? }
Jeri: Thanks, but no offense taken. You always bring spice to any debate and make it that much more lively! 9 ; ? ))
Thanks Jardinera for not deleting my comment. No, I am not a flamer (not that I'm sure what a flamer is, but the name sounds bad). Mine was an honest personal opinion. Much of what you said went right over my head "We here share an "addiction" of sorts as fans of anything might be said to have, and on this blog it's a means of commingling, commemorating and/or commiserating as the situation and the quality and/or lack thereof of a particular telenovela determines". I'm not sure what that means but doesn't change my mind about not wanting to watch something that I don't enjoy. The type comments that I was referring to were from those who said things like they love to read the recaps but can't bear watching the show. Since the recaps are in English, I don't see how they help anyone learn spanish. I had already written in a glowing comment about your recap which I did enjoy. Try to understand other points of view of those of us who love both the novela and the recaps. Don't take it personal and feel you have to come to the defense of those who don't like the show but either watch anyway or merely read the recaps. By the way, I have a satellite dish and my direct TV subscription includes over 23 Spanish stations. I didn't realize there was anyone limited to just one channel. I'm wondering why my comment didn't bring spice to the debate the same way that Jeri's did? Anon 11:42 AM
Permalink posted by : Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 12:43:00 PM EDT
: Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 12:43:00 PM EDT
I get a lot of Spanish channels but I tend to pick a Novela in this time slot. I get it at 6:00 or 9:00. I don't use captions and I understand the show pretty well. During Pasion I got a big kick out of all the archaic Spanish it used and really appreciated the research posters and recappers did , it helped me understand along the path.I don't watch FELS every night and when I miss it I read the recap.I agree with the critical opinion of FELS by most of the posters. Frankly, it makes one grateful for works like Pasion.
Thanks again to you faithful writers.
I am the Anon who posted the words to Estos Celos and Para Siempre.
Thanks again to you faithful writers.
I am the Anon who posted the words to Estos Celos and Para Siempre.
Permalink posted by : Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 1:07:00 PM EDT
: Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 1:07:00 PM EDT
Hey there, Anon. 11:42! (Thanks again.) Your comment is obviously just as legitimate to the debate as others. Sometimes I should be the one deleted! Sorry to have gotten carried away. For me the problem comes when not having a specific screen name to relate to and communicate with. I have no idea whether an anon. commenter is the same person or not. 9 : ? ))
--To clarify, a "flamer" is somebody who doesn't take the site seriously and jumps in and posts a questionable comment just to tie regulars in knots and laugh at the commotion it causes. They can be deleted by the recapper or our blog mom, Melinama, or they can get blasted by the regulars, or they can be brought into the conversation through a reasonable response, as I tried to do not knowing who the comment came from.
Also, I just meant that this blog gives us all an opportunity to joke around with others and to cheer on or complain about something in the novela with people who are watching the same show. Many here have said over the past couple of years that they are learning the language and when English is your first language, it's been my experience that it's always easier to read, understand and to discuss in English than not. I've found that many who come to this site are at all levels of Spanish comprehension. Some are not learning the language, but simply like watching the action and want to be filled in on the details. Some of the recappers didn't know a word of Spanish, but did learn by looking up similar words in the Spanish/English dictionary! (My unending Kudos to them!) Then, too lots have said that when they turn on the closed captions that are in Spanish it's easier for them (as for me) to learn and understand eventually what is being said.
--To clarify, a "flamer" is somebody who doesn't take the site seriously and jumps in and posts a questionable comment just to tie regulars in knots and laugh at the commotion it causes. They can be deleted by the recapper or our blog mom, Melinama, or they can get blasted by the regulars, or they can be brought into the conversation through a reasonable response, as I tried to do not knowing who the comment came from.
Also, I just meant that this blog gives us all an opportunity to joke around with others and to cheer on or complain about something in the novela with people who are watching the same show. Many here have said over the past couple of years that they are learning the language and when English is your first language, it's been my experience that it's always easier to read, understand and to discuss in English than not. I've found that many who come to this site are at all levels of Spanish comprehension. Some are not learning the language, but simply like watching the action and want to be filled in on the details. Some of the recappers didn't know a word of Spanish, but did learn by looking up similar words in the Spanish/English dictionary! (My unending Kudos to them!) Then, too lots have said that when they turn on the closed captions that are in Spanish it's easier for them (as for me) to learn and understand eventually what is being said.
I watch the show for entertainment and also to help me learn spanish. I'm not far enough along with my vocabulary or hearing skills to turn off the captions. For me, they reinforce what is being said. I can get about 6 Spanish channels. I watch one other Novela which is much better than FLS but the trade off is that it is not recapped in English. The recaps are as valuable for me as the closed captions. I have 2 friends from my Spanish class who also watch the show. Both use CC but niether of them are interested in English recaps because want to figure it out on their own. Yet, when we discuss it, I can see that the recaps have given me a much better understanding of what's going on. Keep up the good work recappers. You are appreciated.
Permalink posted by : Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 1:39:00 PM EDT
: Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 1:39:00 PM EDT
Anon. 1:07pm - Thanks for finding the words to those songs and for those translations. I enjoyed reading those, and BTW, Melinama would like help with her Thursdays for FELS. You should think about contacting her!
Wellll, guys, I am not so fortunate. I only can get cable and the company only gives us Uni or nothin'. ~8 > /
Thanks, Cakes for another great recap. I only get Univision . I am not Catholic and only know one priest personally...my former ESL student who is from Iraq. He was one of the sweetest people I've ever met...very funny and charming. Even though I am not Catholic, I sometimes confided in him about relatives who were having problems . He always told me that he would pray for them , and he said a mass for a relative who was going to have surgery. He was down to earth and laidback....very human. Tadeo seems to be this type of priest...human and forgiving. At the same time, I too was surprised to see him encourgae Juan and Sofia's affair and be so happy about the bundle of joy. Maybe as someone noted, Tadeo sees Juan as the only person who can save Sofia and get her out of Ferd's grasp. By the way, does anyone know why Mexican Catholics kiss their hands after making the sign of the cross. Thanks again, Cakes, for the recap. I think I'll go watch the gran final of Yo Am Juan now even though I did not watch the show.
Permalink posted by : Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 6:25:00 PM EDT
: Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 6:25:00 PM EDT
Feo is a riot with his mood swings - screaming at Sofia, then saying he loves her, then threatening to hit her with his belt, then offering to adopt the child - if he thought that was going to be an effective approach, then he's as delusional as Crabi.
Actually, I guess we already knew he was delusional since he's the one who decided to spend a whole day at the cockfights even though he kept losing.
Actually, I guess we already knew he was delusional since he's the one who decided to spend a whole day at the cockfights even though he kept losing.
I missed the first few weeks of FELS but have been following the show--and recap-- faithfully ever since. The recappers are a dedicated and talented bunch, kudos to you all! Like many of you, I'm trying to brush up my very rusty Spanish. I tried watching with captions, but found I missed so much of the body language, facial expressions, etc, while reading, that I actually get more out of it without.
Regarding Fr. Tadeo - it appears that he sees this new life as a sacred blessing. This is consistent with the teachings of the church.
I grew up Catholic, and the clergy members I knew typically were quite emphatic about discouraging premarital sex before the fact; however, once a girl became pregnant, the concern was for the welfare of the girl, her boyfriend, and the child.
At that point, lecturing the horny young couple would have been laughably pointless, and shaming them might have driven them to any number of desperate measures that would not have been in their best interests, nor the child's.
(I realize that Sofia and Juan can't even remotely be mistaken for teenagers.)
In other words, "yes we welcome new babies, but please try to wait until you're married."
Not all nuns and priests would necessarily have reacted so compassionately or pragmatically; I've heard of pregnant students in Catholic schools not being allowed to attend their own graduation ceremonies, and so forth.
I grew up Catholic, and the clergy members I knew typically were quite emphatic about discouraging premarital sex before the fact; however, once a girl became pregnant, the concern was for the welfare of the girl, her boyfriend, and the child.
At that point, lecturing the horny young couple would have been laughably pointless, and shaming them might have driven them to any number of desperate measures that would not have been in their best interests, nor the child's.
(I realize that Sofia and Juan can't even remotely be mistaken for teenagers.)
In other words, "yes we welcome new babies, but please try to wait until you're married."
Not all nuns and priests would necessarily have reacted so compassionately or pragmatically; I've heard of pregnant students in Catholic schools not being allowed to attend their own graduation ceremonies, and so forth.
Ah! Channels in Spanish... depends on where you live. There are more Portuguese-speaking people here, so on "standard" cable, I have three or four Portuguese channels but only Univision for Spanish. (If I downgraded to "basic" cable - the one that just has the most popular local channels and no Comedy or Sci-Fi channel - I would have NO Spanish channels.)
Dish Network's basic package for my area includes ZERO Spanish channels.
You can get more by paying more, but I feel I'm already paying too much. (They raise our rates and then take away channels.)
Ironically, I could get THREE Spanish channels if I had an amplified roof antenna, but none of them would come in well because I'm too far from Boston and the wind here is so awful.
Dish Network's basic package for my area includes ZERO Spanish channels.
You can get more by paying more, but I feel I'm already paying too much. (They raise our rates and then take away channels.)
Ironically, I could get THREE Spanish channels if I had an amplified roof antenna, but none of them would come in well because I'm too far from Boston and the wind here is so awful.
Welcome, creemelo. You're so right about the expressions you miss when reading CC. I end up having to review the video a time or two because I can't read as quickly as I need to and that is when I usually capture those subtleties in the actors' performances. If the script is not as complicated I can catch most of it now which I feel is owing to the advantage of CC technology. I cannot imagine how people learned a new language in a new country before that gem of a technological advance!
========
Yep, Julie. Lecturing Juan and Sofia at this juncture after the fact would have been pointless I guess when you get right down to it. Come to think of it, the archbishop in Pasión is the only cleric in a telenovela I can even remember right now making any recognizable effort along those lines, and it was aimed at the two adult lovers FC and SG's characters. Just depends on the writers I suppose. In FELS Jimena and Oscar seem to be the only two who remember those lectures from their early training. So, to be fair I guess the script does give the idea some play.....
========
Yep, Julie. Lecturing Juan and Sofia at this juncture after the fact would have been pointless I guess when you get right down to it. Come to think of it, the archbishop in Pasión is the only cleric in a telenovela I can even remember right now making any recognizable effort along those lines, and it was aimed at the two adult lovers FC and SG's characters. Just depends on the writers I suppose. In FELS Jimena and Oscar seem to be the only two who remember those lectures from their early training. So, to be fair I guess the script does give the idea some play.....
Thanks for the recap! I would like to say that I am mostly watching this novela even if it isn't as good as others we have watched. It's fun to read the recaps, though and the comments are really fun to read. Everyone has so many different and funny opinions about the show and characters.
Truthfully, there isn't much I want to see in the English stations right now. And we all know that eventually there will be a better novela to watch .....We are just diehards, I guess.
Some are watching to improve their Spanish, some want to learn Spanish and this is a really good way to learn. The Mexican novelas are the best because the Spanish is easier to understand. I remember seeing the original Betty la Fea a few years back and it was pretty hard to follow at first because the Columbian Spanish is really FAST!
Also the novelas always seem to have a priest and they always pray to la virgen. It's just a given.
The best part about the novelas is that they eventually end of course!
I also love Juan's smile......
Truthfully, there isn't much I want to see in the English stations right now. And we all know that eventually there will be a better novela to watch .....We are just diehards, I guess.
Some are watching to improve their Spanish, some want to learn Spanish and this is a really good way to learn. The Mexican novelas are the best because the Spanish is easier to understand. I remember seeing the original Betty la Fea a few years back and it was pretty hard to follow at first because the Columbian Spanish is really FAST!
Also the novelas always seem to have a priest and they always pray to la virgen. It's just a given.
The best part about the novelas is that they eventually end of course!
I also love Juan's smile......
Permalink posted by : Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 10:55:00 PM EDT
: Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 10:55:00 PM EDT
Well tonights comments sure gave me an education about the lack of Spanish channels in other parts of the country. I live in South Florida 30 miles from Miami where Telemundo is located. There is an abundance of Spanish channels at our disposal. Of course if you want more than the 6-8 that comes with basic cable, you have to purchase a package. I pay $29.99 monthly for my Spanish package. I guess when your options are limited you have to make the best of it.
Permalink posted by : Monday, June 23, 2008 at 12:15:00 AM EDT
: Monday, June 23, 2008 at 12:15:00 AM EDT
I did have 3 or 4 channels when I lived in Orlando, but I wasn't watching telenovelas yet, so I had no idea how lucky I was!
Still, I wouldn't spend time watching FELS (or something else) if I really hated it - life's too short for that, and there are still shows in other time slots to choose from. But I was motivated to find a way to enjoy it, and I'm glad I did.
It's the charm of its actors, which seems to increase week after week. Just when you think it wouldn't be possible for them to be any cuter, they get cuter. Like the padre enjoying Juan's new Sofie-cake. I've never seen anyone enjoy pastry so much. Acting!
Still, I wouldn't spend time watching FELS (or something else) if I really hated it - life's too short for that, and there are still shows in other time slots to choose from. But I was motivated to find a way to enjoy it, and I'm glad I did.
It's the charm of its actors, which seems to increase week after week. Just when you think it wouldn't be possible for them to be any cuter, they get cuter. Like the padre enjoying Juan's new Sofie-cake. I've never seen anyone enjoy pastry so much. Acting!
Julie:
It is amazing how once we've committed to a luke warm telenovela because the other two options aren't as "captivating", or they are 2 months along into the story and such, that we do "warm up" so to speak to the characters and their individual stories. Sometimes even getting into a telenovela that is into its 7th or 8th week can be a satisfying and pleasant surprise, like Amar Otra Vez. -- BUT speaking of eating and acting, Querida Enemiga starts tonight. It would be nice if it could turn into another AOV.
It is amazing how once we've committed to a luke warm telenovela because the other two options aren't as "captivating", or they are 2 months along into the story and such, that we do "warm up" so to speak to the characters and their individual stories. Sometimes even getting into a telenovela that is into its 7th or 8th week can be a satisfying and pleasant surprise, like Amar Otra Vez. -- BUT speaking of eating and acting, Querida Enemiga starts tonight. It would be nice if it could turn into another AOV.
Morning! Thanks for another great, humorous recap, since I missed Friday's wild & woolly episode. I always miss the action-packed ones!
A few asides...
As a Catholic who also had the benefit of an uncle who was a priest, there's always been issues with official church teachings & the realities of everyday life. My uncle tried to balance both (especially since his parish was not a wealthy one) and recognized the difficulties faced by his parishoners. He was devout but human. (miss him dearly)
On why I watch TNs: I learned Spanish from a Cuban teacher, I hear Puerto Rican Spanish on the streets in my area, and now I'm tuning my ears to Mexican pronunciations...never did I realize the diversity! So part of my addiction is improving my Spanish and part is the show itself. Some are better than others but for me, they're a nice way to end my day. And, I can rationalize the sillier ones by working on my Spanish.
But the BEST part is this forum! Love you guys!
It's a perfect world!
;-)
A few asides...
As a Catholic who also had the benefit of an uncle who was a priest, there's always been issues with official church teachings & the realities of everyday life. My uncle tried to balance both (especially since his parish was not a wealthy one) and recognized the difficulties faced by his parishoners. He was devout but human. (miss him dearly)
On why I watch TNs: I learned Spanish from a Cuban teacher, I hear Puerto Rican Spanish on the streets in my area, and now I'm tuning my ears to Mexican pronunciations...never did I realize the diversity! So part of my addiction is improving my Spanish and part is the show itself. Some are better than others but for me, they're a nice way to end my day. And, I can rationalize the sillier ones by working on my Spanish.
But the BEST part is this forum! Love you guys!
It's a perfect world!
;-)
Mad Buns/susanlynn: Welcome back to the bakery. OT: Good news from a long-time TN-W blogger in the know on the latest FC telenovela in the works! Fer hasn't abandoned you and Sylvia after all. He's coming back in a new one next fall/spring which is a remake of a current Columbian telenovela called Pura Sangre. Silvia Navarro is his love interest. Lucero and Sergio Sendel are the villains, though I thought I made out in the speedy TV gossip video on La Oreja that they had considered Angelica Rivera for Lucero's part, or maybe she'll be brought into it later on, also. They raced through the gossip and everyone was yammering excitedly at the same time. Don't know if it comes to replace FELS or Al Diablo, though.
Hey there, Mad Maggie Marlow from CT! Thanks again. If you or others are interested, I'll give you the links to Friday's episodio's in 4 segments on YouTube. Sometimes the audio is not the best, and there is no CC, but you can definitely get your visual fix before tonight's show!
http://foro.telenovela-world.com/n4/read-t.php?f=483&i=2001&t=2001
http://foro.telenovela-world.com/n4/read-t.php?f=483&i=2001&t=2001
Jardinera: You just made my Monday! I'm a charter member of the FC "TBLMOE" Club so I am very happy to hear that he will be flashing those incredible dimples again soon. Can't wait!!
Thanks for the link for Friday's show. I'll be primed & ready for tonight!
Thanks for the link for Friday's show. I'll be primed & ready for tonight!
Julie, I have also noticed that the charm of the actors increases week-to-week; very nicely put. :-) I noticed they seem to be coming together as an ensemble a few weeks back.
Permalink posted by : Monday, June 23, 2008 at 10:23:00 AM EDT
: Monday, June 23, 2008 at 10:23:00 AM EDT
You made my Monday too - did you just say Sergio Sendel and Fernando Colunga in the same hour? THUD!!
Is this the same thing as the Rosa Salvaje (or was it Corazon Salvaje) remake I heard about a few months ago?
Is this the same thing as the Rosa Salvaje (or was it Corazon Salvaje) remake I heard about a few months ago?
Thanks for the recap!
I think some people read the recaps, but don't watch the telenovela, because the recaps here are more entertaining. (The snark value.LOL)
I stayed with La Madrastra simply because the forum was more fun than the novela itself, and Alexis' pictures and captions were priceless.
I tried to like LFMB and the forum was great company, I tried to hang in there because of the foristas, but sadly, the telenovela itself finally drove me away.
re: Padre Tadeo ---- IMO, every telenovela has a character that is The Voice of Reason. It is usually the local priest. I'm okay with Fr. T's take on the pregnance because I view him has that voice of Reason instead of as a symbol of theocracy. Cazando un Millionario didn't have a priest but Julieta, the mother, was the Voice of Reason in that one.
doris
I think some people read the recaps, but don't watch the telenovela, because the recaps here are more entertaining. (The snark value.LOL)
I stayed with La Madrastra simply because the forum was more fun than the novela itself, and Alexis' pictures and captions were priceless.
I tried to like LFMB and the forum was great company, I tried to hang in there because of the foristas, but sadly, the telenovela itself finally drove me away.
re: Padre Tadeo ---- IMO, every telenovela has a character that is The Voice of Reason. It is usually the local priest. I'm okay with Fr. T's take on the pregnance because I view him has that voice of Reason instead of as a symbol of theocracy. Cazando un Millionario didn't have a priest but Julieta, the mother, was the Voice of Reason in that one.
doris
Permalink posted by : Monday, June 23, 2008 at 11:24:00 AM EDT
: Monday, June 23, 2008 at 11:24:00 AM EDT
Good call, Doris - now that you mention it, the list of Voices of Reason per telenovela is typically very short.
Another possible VoR in FELS might be Libia. She doesn't say much, but the glowing flower should be consulted more often.
Grandpa's a voice of reason too.
On the bad guy side, Armando seems to be the sensible one.
However, the Voices of Reason are seldom heeded. If they were, we wouldn't have much of a story. But we still need them, just to be assured that SOMEONE in the story has some wisdom. :)
Another possible VoR in FELS might be Libia. She doesn't say much, but the glowing flower should be consulted more often.
Grandpa's a voice of reason too.
On the bad guy side, Armando seems to be the sensible one.
However, the Voices of Reason are seldom heeded. If they were, we wouldn't have much of a story. But we still need them, just to be assured that SOMEONE in the story has some wisdom. :)
I enjoy this show for many reasons. 1) it helps me improve my Spanish, and I'm obsessed with that. The repetition of the same phrases really helps out a struggling learner. 2) There's nothing like it on American TV (rooster shirts, conch pastries, sombreros, flowers that glow; 3) the attractive cast (I love Jimena and Sarita's outfits, although Sofia needs a few fashion lessons) and 4) the bad guys are just so outrageous (I think I burst out laughing anytime Gabi gives one of her knowing superior smiles!)
hombre de misterio - don't forget things like Rosario and her ... bomboms.
doris
doris
Permalink posted by : Monday, June 23, 2008 at 1:42:00 PM EDT
: Monday, June 23, 2008 at 1:42:00 PM EDT
Speaking of Rosario and her enormous... air of sadness - having her "accept" Eva as her mother as part of some plot of Fern's is quite an interesting plot twist. I can't wait to see where this is going... and how the junior Elizondos will react.
Only Sofia, Eva, Juan, and Grandpa officially know that Bernardo was the father of Eva's child, correct? How about Tadeo?
Gabi may suspect, but I don't think Feo or the sisters know at all?
Only Sofia, Eva, Juan, and Grandpa officially know that Bernardo was the father of Eva's child, correct? How about Tadeo?
Gabi may suspect, but I don't think Feo or the sisters know at all?
About the Catholic thing, I converted as an adult, way before I met my husband. I didn't grow up with the dogma, but all my friends were Catholic and the sex thing was more of a not wanting a bad rep rather than a religious reason. Once they were out of school it usually happened after they dated some guy for a while.
Now I can't make a blanket statement here, but as I said, there are churches in the cities, but there nearest church is 30 miles from my husband's ranch. That is where you did the birth certificate. There was no real formal training in religion. I don't even know if he had a first communion (I don't think he has been to confession since he was six). Many people married, but then split up, from there you just form a new family unit. There are more kids and lots of half brothers/sister, there is no shame. It is just a way of life.
It seemed kind of weird to me cause all the different mothers where really good to the different kids.
Now I can't make a blanket statement here, but as I said, there are churches in the cities, but there nearest church is 30 miles from my husband's ranch. That is where you did the birth certificate. There was no real formal training in religion. I don't even know if he had a first communion (I don't think he has been to confession since he was six). Many people married, but then split up, from there you just form a new family unit. There are more kids and lots of half brothers/sister, there is no shame. It is just a way of life.
It seemed kind of weird to me cause all the different mothers where really good to the different kids.
Thanks for the superbly funny and wonderfully detailed recap. I taped then accidently erased the show before I could watch it all. And not only that, then I see you've got links posted so I don't even have to hunt!! SUPER!!! Thanks so much!! I was really LOL through the whole recap!!!
Thanks for the recap, Jardinera.
I thought Friday's episode was the best in a while. Loved the new pastries with the "S", loved seeing Oscar once again counting the money, and of course, loved loved loved Sofi announcing her pregnancy. Father Tadeo even looked better. Maybe the botox is wearing off. ;)
I thought Friday's episode was the best in a while. Loved the new pastries with the "S", loved seeing Oscar once again counting the money, and of course, loved loved loved Sofi announcing her pregnancy. Father Tadeo even looked better. Maybe the botox is wearing off. ;)
Permalink posted by : Monday, June 23, 2008 at 6:08:00 PM EDT
: Monday, June 23, 2008 at 6:08:00 PM EDT
Thanks for that recap, Jardinera. Reading the comments made me think about why I watch TNs. My reasons:
Long term interest in Spanish/Latin American culture, including music, dance, social customs from classes and reading in school and college. The extravagant, exaggerated TNs may be seen as a glimpse into a different culture.
Watching Span. TV does improve my comprehension.
Love the snark in the recaps and comments. Sarcasm ran rampant in my family, and I always enjoyed satire (Mad Magazine growing up, literary satires, Mystery Science Theatre 3000, etc.)
TNs are a great escape from reality. They’re also a dramatic form with stock characters and stereotypes. Interesting to see the variations.
I’m watching FELS in particular because the actors are familiar and because I’m at work until 9 pm. My VCR’s not working, don’t have Tivo, so I can only watch at broadcast time. Have been trying to catch Rubi at noon, when I can, and enjoy that as well.
I don't watch much Eng. drama on tv, I do see some reality shows. I prefer comedy.
Crabi needs some smelling salts to add to the drama of her "attacks".
La Paloma
Long term interest in Spanish/Latin American culture, including music, dance, social customs from classes and reading in school and college. The extravagant, exaggerated TNs may be seen as a glimpse into a different culture.
Watching Span. TV does improve my comprehension.
Love the snark in the recaps and comments. Sarcasm ran rampant in my family, and I always enjoyed satire (Mad Magazine growing up, literary satires, Mystery Science Theatre 3000, etc.)
TNs are a great escape from reality. They’re also a dramatic form with stock characters and stereotypes. Interesting to see the variations.
I’m watching FELS in particular because the actors are familiar and because I’m at work until 9 pm. My VCR’s not working, don’t have Tivo, so I can only watch at broadcast time. Have been trying to catch Rubi at noon, when I can, and enjoy that as well.
I don't watch much Eng. drama on tv, I do see some reality shows. I prefer comedy.
Crabi needs some smelling salts to add to the drama of her "attacks".
La Paloma
Permalink posted by : Monday, June 23, 2008 at 6:20:00 PM EDT
: Monday, June 23, 2008 at 6:20:00 PM EDT
Cakes !!! Thanks for the chisme. I love Eduardo , but I am missing my numero uno hombre [well, numero uno after hub]. I don't know Sylvia Navarro. What other novelas has she been in ??? It will be fun seeing Sergio interact with Fernando and interesting to see Lucero playing a villain. I will be looking forward to Fernando locking horns with Sergio in this one, and I am wondering about Fernando's ''look'' in this one since he seems to change his appearance for ewvery show...long hair, short hair, facial hair, cleanshaven. Any idea about the plot and setting ? This is something to look forward to. At the end of Pasion, someone posted information about Fernando doing a remake of a classic novela with Angelica Rivera , I believe. Some commentors protested because they felt that the original was so good that it could not be duplicated. Have you heard anything about this show ? I agree with others that Fuego is growing on me...perhaps it does not put as much fuego en mi sangre as some other telenovelas I've seen , but I enjoy turning it on every night to see what's going to happen next. And Pablo is much better in this one than he was in Duelo de Pasiones in which he had uno expression...I've counted at least 3 expressions on him so far in this show. I think that he is watching Eduardo and Jotge and learning some emoting lessons from them. And The Big E [Eduardo]s just a pleasure to look at in general....I appreciate his charms and I appreciate his charms...Estoy muy contento.
Permalink posted by : Monday, June 23, 2008 at 6:26:00 PM EDT
: Monday, June 23, 2008 at 6:26:00 PM EDT
Whoops....typing too fast and not proofing....I meant ''I appreciate his charms , and I appreciate his ARMS.'' heh
Permalink posted by : Monday, June 23, 2008 at 6:30:00 PM EDT
: Monday, June 23, 2008 at 6:30:00 PM EDT
I just want to add why I come to this website, since the discussion was above, and I scanned some responses. I am pretty much fluent in Spanish, so I understand the shows, but I come to this site because I am a fan of the site itself. I don't always have time to watch shows, so here I can get a recap, and it's always sooo funny!
This one I can't take right now, it is too awful to watch, but I want to keep up, so I just will read your re-caps - it's a great service, and I thank you for it! I am back to Al Diablo, but I will return to see if this show stops dragging.
You guys do a great job and always make me laugh!! When I have more time I will offer to recap! I think it is great that people like novelas and Latino culture, and that you have your site.
Con respeto y carino, Magda.
This one I can't take right now, it is too awful to watch, but I want to keep up, so I just will read your re-caps - it's a great service, and I thank you for it! I am back to Al Diablo, but I will return to see if this show stops dragging.
You guys do a great job and always make me laugh!! When I have more time I will offer to recap! I think it is great that people like novelas and Latino culture, and that you have your site.
Con respeto y carino, Magda.
Permalink posted by : Monday, June 23, 2008 at 6:51:00 PM EDT
: Monday, June 23, 2008 at 6:51:00 PM EDT
Thanks everyone for the great recaps this past week since I have been unable to watch. I did catch one over the weekend and was quite surprised to see Fern's mother from La Fea playing Raquel Uribe. And now she has a wig that's a cross between burgundy and purple. In this day of hair extensions and fantastic wigs I was just wondering why they can't give this woman a decent looking one. Has this burning question been addressed in the comments and I missed it?
Permalink posted by : Monday, June 23, 2008 at 7:33:00 PM EDT
: Monday, June 23, 2008 at 7:33:00 PM EDT
Mad buns bess/susanlynn: From what I can quickly tell it's a story about two young lovers who are separated when the boy is sent off to boarding school. He comes back as an adult to avenge the mistreatment of his mother and that wrecks the love affair. So love and vengeance is the bottom line. It's modern day. Don't know how they'll change it for the Mexican market.
Adding to Jardinera's synopsis of TBLMOE's new project. It appears to involve a feud between two families. And it's clearly not related to Corazon Salvaje, the pirate one the rumors said FC would work on next.
Permalink posted by : Monday, June 23, 2008 at 8:21:00 PM EDT
: Monday, June 23, 2008 at 8:21:00 PM EDT
I am very happy to hear the news about Fernando's new project. I shared the chisme with Sylvia at the Yo amo Juan site. Please let us know if any more news surfaces.
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Permalink posted by : Monday, June 23, 2008 at 8:50:00 PM EDT
: Monday, June 23, 2008 at 8:50:00 PM EDT
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