Saturday, February 13, 2010
Gancho Friday February 12th. Lots of Lurking, But How’s it Working?
Alternate Title: Scents and Sensibility
Lurking. Who among us has never experienced the guilty pleasure of watching, listening, but being unobserved? Oh, we know it’s wrong. But we didn’t MEAN to pick up that telephone extension. And of COURSE we wouldn’t listen through a door! Maybe we’re just shy, and that’s why we read blogs faithfully, every day, but can never quite bring ourselves to put our thoughts out there in the world of cyberspace, for anyone to read. You say you never lurk? But isn’t watching a telenovela a little like lurking? We can observe the characters as they reveal their innermost secrets. We see them in private moments of sensuality. And there’s no guilt! And if we’re secretly watching some characters, and THEY’re secretly watching or listening, doesn’t that DOUBLE the pleasure? You bet it does.
When last we left our lovable characters, Nieves had polished off a super-sized tub of palomitas (popcorn) after movie night with Beto, and was going to do her business, when her darling criatura opens the door to their apartment, turns on the lights, and finds a slimy snake lurking in the shadows. Her name? Hisssssabel. Beto is so scared he can’t quite turn off the gas, and Hissy holds her nose at the smelly result.
Over in Coni’s room, Jacqui is telling her, in lurid detail, just how bad a lover Jero is. Apparently he cries after making love, and whines like a little mouse. Little do they know, but the mousey is in their housey (more precisely, in the dressing room, lurking and listening). Coni tells her Mom, “He never did that with ME”. With you? Yes, replies Coni, we did it, twice, and it was horrible. Jacqui can’t believe they’ve shared the same pain. Jerry’s like a dog, and was done in two minutes. He’s the worst lover in the world. We’re then treated to the downtrodden face of the worst lover in the world.
Outside, Aldo is sitting with his Dad Mauricio in the car, explaining the Estrella situation. He fills in Mauricio on what Katia did, what the boys Benjamin and Esteban did, and how he wants to handle problems himself. Mau tells him that violence never solves anything. But when Aldo asks Mau what he’d do if Monita were threatened, Mau admits he might bust some heads – if Monita didn’t do it first!
Watch out for Oscar, is Jacqui’s warning for Coni. Jerónimo’s just a puppet (un títere), but Oscar is bad news. Coni agrees, Oscar’s been demanding his money, but she had no problem blowing him off (lo mandé a la fregada). Her Mom doesn’t think she should have such a cavalier attitude. She tells Coni that Jero thinks Oscar may have been the one who offed Salvador, and for once in his life, Jerry could be right. So what do YOU think, daughter? Could Oscar have ordered the murder of Salvador? Could HE be behind the accident in Venezuela? Coni’s silence is deafening.
Isabel isn’t leaving until she talks with Nieves. Beto says no way, seeing you alive would kill her, she’s sure you’ve checked out (he says you hung up your high heels). Isabel realizes that Beto already knew she was still alive, and Beto agrees, his soul brother Mauricio doesn’t hide anything from him. In fact, he knows ALL about what Isabel did. Hissy hisses back, I didn’t come here to listen to any putdowns, least of all from someone as insignificant as YOU. Ouch. Outside, Nieves is just about to enter her apartment when Alicia intercepts her, and convinces her to talk a bit more about Cesar. They go off for some girl talk.
Mau’s bonding with Aldo is winding down, they’re at the door now, and Mau tells him the lawyers are trying to obtain some visitation rights for Mau. He really misses the girls, and is glad Aldo’s watching over them. Aldo (laying the groundwork for his upcoming declaration of independence), tells his Dad he loves caring for his sisters, but there’s a lot more in his life, shouldn’t he be able to concentrate on other things, too? Mau gives him an answer he probably didn’t want to hear. You’re still a year away from the age of majority (so Aldo is now 17), and of course you need to finish high school. Right. They hug and Aldo goes inside.
Gabi and Paula are sitting at opposite ends of a very long table in Moni’s apartment. Gabi has the strangest feeling. It’s like a premonition. Salvador’s trying to contact her. Paula’s into it, sure, Sal’s calling from the Great Beyond. Enter Estrella to give Gabi a hug, then Moni, then Ximena. There’s a group hug, which makes Gabi feel a bit better. Paula asks Gabi to repeat what she was feeling, and it’s like a tightness in the chest (opresión de pecho), she just feels that Sal is calling to her, begging her to help him. Xime’s enthused, she’s heard that after people die, their souls wander the earth, not content to move on until they’ve taken care of all pending matters. Let’s see, she continues. What had Sal not done? Marry me, answers Gabi wistfully.
Well? asks Jacqui of Coni. Do you know something about Salvador’s death? Ummm, no, of course not, in fact, I don’t even care, and, ummm, what’s more, I’m tired, I want to take off this dress and take a bath, okay? Fine, they’ll talk later. Coni heads towards her dressing room, as Jerry moves from the dressing room into the closet, sneaking behind some dresses. Coni enters barefoot, and Jerry secretly watches her enter the bathroom,
then quickly exits without her knowledge.
Xime thinks Gabi should try to contact Sal, to liberate his soul, so he can go towards the light. Estre’s skeptical, doesn’t believe in these things. Gabi says she’s always been skeptical (escéptica) too, but this is so real, there has to be an explanation. Well, Xime just happens to know a witch (una bruja), she’s really maraviguau, knows all about these things, and Gabi asks, can you take me to see her? Estrella wants to go, too, to find out about her future, is she making the right decisions? Moni doesn’t think Estre should trust her decisions to a bruja. Paula wants the bruja to cast a spell over Cristian to get him to pop the question, nothing else’s working on her stubborn boy. Moni doesn’t believe in all this stuff, but you know what? She’s going too, sisters together!
Nieves is finished talking to Alicia, and is just about to enter her apartment (again), when she’s intercepted by Paula, who tells her Gabi is here, in Moni’s apartment, and Nieves goes to give her a hug.
Inside Nieves’ apartment, Beto and Isabel are arguing. You have to leave, he says. Not until I talk with Nieves. There’s a knock on the door, and it’s Alicia. I think she says Nieves gave her the blue donkey purse, and she wants to pick it up. Isabel is surprised that Alicia’s in town. But there’s no way Beto’s going to let Alicia know Isabel is alive. What can they do?
Isabel lurks (I mean hides) behind the beads in Beto’s bedroom, as Alicia comes in, and sees Nieves isn’t there. Beto says she’s at Moni’s. Alicia is just about to leave, when she smells something. In fact, it’s perfume. Beto grasps for an explanation (as Alicia accidentally knocks her earring off, and picks it off the floor, in an unscripted moment I found hilarious, as the actors ignored it). Beto says he bought some perfume for his Mom, to cheer her up, what with Cesar leaving and all. Alicia recognizes the perfume as the one Isabel used to wear, she gets all misty, it’s almost as if Isabel were here (we see her behind the curtain).
Beto’s really nervous, but Alicia talks on and on, tells Beto that many people think she has no sense of humor, but really, she can be quite funny! (this scene is a scream, as we all know the actress playing Alicia is the real life mother of the actor playing Beto). Beto tries to usher Alicia out, but Alicia is laughing, she just HAS to tell Beto this terrific joke!
Let’s see, once they were in Moroleón, and they had to go to the D.F. Uh, no, maybe it was shopping. Wait a sec, ah yes, the doctor’s. She’s snapping her fingers, trying to remember, as Beto’s frantically urging her to just tell the neighbors, they’d really appreciate the joke. No, wait, now she remembers. They got on a bus, and ha ha ha, she can’t stop laughing, you’ll never believe it, a woman was so fat she took up two seats! And when Isabel saw her, she got right in front of her, and, and, (she fans herself, just can’t stop chuckling), she said in that very serious voice of hers (we see Isabel, not amused at all, behind the curtain), she said (Alicia imitates Isa’s low, expressionless voice), “Ah, Alicia, if they had told me that today the tickets were two for one, I wouldn’t have paid for yours!” She laughs uncontrollably, but it turns to a cry, she can’t help it, she wails, I miss her so much! She was my best friend, we were so good together. Beto, who has remained totally straightfaced throughout Alicia’s tirade, FINALLY convinces her to go over to Moni’s house.
Out from the shadows comes Hisssabel. “Alicia hasn’t changed. She’s still as corny and ridiculous as ever. You can see how I couldn’t stand her. There were days I wanted to choke her. She just never shuts up.” Beto shakes his head.
Back to lurker number two (Jerry). He’s trying to sneak out of the house, but he hears footsteps, and ducks into a corner. Luisa and Jacqui enter from opposite sides, Luisa starts to tell Jacqui about Andrés. After they leave, Jerry ducks into Aldo’s room, just as Jacqui and Luisa come back. Luisa goes off to bed, and Jacqui goes to open Aldo’s door, but it’s locked. Aldo doesn’t say a word, but he and Jerry stare at each other, and the door. Jacqui says she knows he’s in there, wants to talk about Estrella.
We know have six ladies at that table, Gabi, Nieves, Moni, Xime, Paula, and Estrella, all conveniently sitting on one side so we, the audience can see them at the same time. Nieves is patting Gabi’s hand, SHE’s just experienced the same loss. You mean, Don Cesar died? asks Gabi. Nope – left her, says Alicia, entering to make a lucky seven of our luscious ladies. Nieves laments that it’s the same, her Cesarín left, without even saying goodbye. Sure, interjects Paula, but there is one difference. Cesar’s not dead. Alicia joins with the criticism of Nieves, and the two start going at it, until Moni calls a halt, if you two want to fight, take it outside. Gabi is grateful for all this support though, without it she’d be sinking into an abyss. Xime thinks this is poetic, in fact, she’s going to use it in her next love letter from Lalu to Arnie. She gets out her white feather pen to take notes.
For some reason, Aldo wants to talk with Jerónimo, and with Oscar, but that’s not happening right now, since Jacqui’s insistent with her knocking. Jerry goes to hide in the bathroom, and Aldo lets Jacqui in. She assures him she’s not like Coni, and will never tell Coni any of this. Estrella had asked her to help, and she’s ready to. Aldo wants her to butt out.
Beto can’t believe how cold Isabel is, to treat her best friend the way she does. He also remembers the day Isa abandoned Monita, who sat on the stool (la banqueta) outside the door to the vecindad, waiting all day for her mother to return. She suffered for years. But somehow, she overcame that, and is strong. You should be grateful for that. Isabel disagrees, Valentina should thank ME. This infuriates Beto.
The seven sisters are bubbling with excitement -
Let’s all cook the same thing! suggests Moni. Xime wants to go out – they could all get daiquiris. Gabi’s not in the mood, but Nieves remembers she made a mole de olla (like beef stew in a pot) that’s really yummy (de rechupete), and it’s enough for all of them. She goes off to get it, as the others will set the table. Gabi wants to help, but they tell her to stay put, she’s the guest of honor.
Hissy explains why they should all thank her. By her leaving Valentina, that made her the strong young lady she is today. But, she says, picking up an apple, “the apple may be juicy, but that doesn’t mean it can’t spoil.” The snake bites deeply into the apple.
Outside, Nieves approaches her door for the third time, only to be called by Monita. Inside, Beto hears this, rushes over to Isabel, and grabs her from behind, clapping one hand over her apple-filled mouth to keep her quiet. He hustles her behind the beaded curtain as Nieves enters, looking for some plates that Moni needed. She calls out to him, and since there’s no answer, assumes he’s in a cantina, so much for his plan to be a priest. She leaves with the plates, and immediately Isabel, who has been struggling with Beto, elbows him in the ribs, breaking free, breathing heavily.
Aldo tells Jacqui he doesn’t want to be part of her family, doesn’t want her to be his granny. That’s good, replies Jacqui, because I’m much too young to be your granny. I can be like a young aunt, or an amiga. Besides, I don’t agree with what Coni is doing at all. I think you kids should be with your father, I know how much you’ve been suffering. And you know what? Life shouldn’t be about suffering. It should be about enjoyment, laughing, living intensely, life is like a big party. Aldo gives her a reality check. He and his sisters have lived in pain. Their mother died when Danni was a baby, they struggled to live in the orphanage, and only by Mauricio’s love have they been able to be a family. Jacqui understands, but thinks Aldo and Estrella aren’t ready to have their own family, that’s why she agreed to help Estrella. She knows a discreet gynecologist – No, interrupts Aldo. Estrella was confused, we’re having the baby. Jacqui doesn’t think Aldo’s looking at the situation over the long term (a largo plazo), but Aldo feels Jacqui is wrong, he IS being responsible, and he and Estrella will have the baby.
“How DARE you put your hands on me!” yells Isabel to Beto. All men are the same, they’re all PIGS who want to dominate women by force. Beto shows her how she hurt his finger when she elbowed him, but as he approaches, she screams for him to get away from her. Don’t worry, assures Beto, you’re not my type. But the snake splits venom, keep your disgusting hands away from me, no me toques, no me toques!
Jacqui tries to reason with Aldo. She was only twenty when she had Constanza, and was too young to be a responsible mother. She started viewing her children as obstacles to her life, and look what happened. Aldo thinks Estrella isn’t like Jacqui at all, but Jacqui disagrees. A child would ruin all of Estrella’s dreams.
Beto is pleading with Isabel. I didn’t mean to hurt you. But try to understand, if my Mom saw you alive and kicking (vivita y coleando), the shock could KILL her. Hissy responds that she WILL talk to Nieves. Beto says you’re scaring me, I’m sweating, look, smell this (he raises his arm). Hissy has a fit. You stink, I can’t stand your rotten smell! No, shoots back Beto. You’re the one who’s rotting, in your soul, in your heart. I will not let you see my mother, so leave! Fine, agrees Isabel, I’ll leave, but I’m coming back, because Nieves and I have unfinished business. Beto goes outside to see if the coast is clear, and guess who pops up? La Monita.
Moni wants to go inside to get some pots for the mole, but Beto won’t let her pass. He repeatedly stands in front of her, telling her things such as he knows all about pots for mole, they’re shaped liked boobies (I think that’s what he said), he can get them. Moni wasn’t born yesterday, though, how come you’re not letting me in Nieves’s apartment, Beto? Well, you can’t go in. Why, do you have someone in there? Some girl? No, oh course not. She tries to dodge him, but he keeps jumping in front of her, as she gets madder and madder.
Moni then looks over Beto’s shoulder, points, says look who just arrived!
Beto falls for it, looks, she punches him, and rushes past, opening the door as Beto winces in pain (he’s really getting a ribbing today). By this time, Hissy’s back in behind the beads. Moni doesn’t see anyone, so why didn’t Beto want her to come in? He says he let out a big one, didn’t want the smell to gross her out. Moni’s skeptical, doesn’t smell anything, wait a minute, she does. She smells perfume. Now she KNOWS there was a girl.
Aldo is firm. He knows the risks, but he and Estrella are ready to face them. Jacqui insists she’s just trying to help. Then why don’t you help yourself? Your own daughters need you. They’re both vipers, bent on getting what they want without regard to any other people’s feelings. Why don’t you put your own house in order? These wise words hit Jacqui hard.
Beto tells Moni he was with a girl, picked her up on the corner, but he didn’t pay, he just made out with her (la ligué, this is slang for made out with or had sex with someone, the word literally means to tie or bind, I guess it’s sort of like how kids in the U.S. say they’re “hooking up”). Moni is shocked, wasn’t he going to stop with the women, didn’t he want to guardar el silbato? (which means put away the “whistle”). Ah, but the flesh is weak, and I’m a macho billy goat, you know? Fine, says Moni, go with whomever you want, but what’s with bringing them back to your mother’s place, have you no shame? Well, he doesn’t have the dinero for a hotel, and by the way, when he brought the girl here, he had second thoughts, and the girl left, but not before she left her perfumy smell all over the place, of course. Moni starts to try to get a look behind the curtain, but Beto talks her out of it, he’s alone, doesn’t she trust him? Moni does, but wait a minute, that perfume reminds her of the one her mother wore. Ah well, she’ll go, but watch it with those dames, Beto.
The lurker emerges from her lair, telling Beto, I hope this shows you that I’m not interested in Valentina’s knowing that I’m alive……at least, not YET.
In another part of town, Jacqui has left Aldo, and Jerry the jerk can stop his lurk. He congratulates Aldo on putting Jacqui in her place, she deserved it, after leaving HIM, the most sought after (codiciado) bachelor in town. Yeah, says Aldo, according to whom?
Beto walks Hissabel all the way to her car, he’s not taking his eyes off her. She insists that his mother and she have to talk, about the man who left Nieves at the altar. Sure, Beto’s heard that story a million times, but what’s that got to do with you? More than you can imagine, she hisses. Did you know, Beto, that that man who loved your mother so much, is Marcos, the father of La Momia? You could knock Beto over with a feather.
And Monday looks great again. Oscar and Jerry have guns and money, and Gabi and Moni visit the manicomio. Will they see Salvador?
Vocabulario:
Un títere – a puppet
Escéptico(a) – skeptical
Una banqueta – a stool, can also mean the sidewalk or pavement, maybe that’s what it meant when Beto was telling Isabel about Moni’s waiting
De Rechupete – delicious, yummy, scrumptious
A largo plazo – over the long term
Vivita y coleando – alive and kicking, colear can mean to wag one’s tail
Ligarse – to make out, or to have sex (literally to bind oneself(ves)
Codiciado – sought after, coveted
Lurking. Who among us has never experienced the guilty pleasure of watching, listening, but being unobserved? Oh, we know it’s wrong. But we didn’t MEAN to pick up that telephone extension. And of COURSE we wouldn’t listen through a door! Maybe we’re just shy, and that’s why we read blogs faithfully, every day, but can never quite bring ourselves to put our thoughts out there in the world of cyberspace, for anyone to read. You say you never lurk? But isn’t watching a telenovela a little like lurking? We can observe the characters as they reveal their innermost secrets. We see them in private moments of sensuality. And there’s no guilt! And if we’re secretly watching some characters, and THEY’re secretly watching or listening, doesn’t that DOUBLE the pleasure? You bet it does.
When last we left our lovable characters, Nieves had polished off a super-sized tub of palomitas (popcorn) after movie night with Beto, and was going to do her business, when her darling criatura opens the door to their apartment, turns on the lights, and finds a slimy snake lurking in the shadows. Her name? Hisssssabel. Beto is so scared he can’t quite turn off the gas, and Hissy holds her nose at the smelly result.
Over in Coni’s room, Jacqui is telling her, in lurid detail, just how bad a lover Jero is. Apparently he cries after making love, and whines like a little mouse. Little do they know, but the mousey is in their housey (more precisely, in the dressing room, lurking and listening). Coni tells her Mom, “He never did that with ME”. With you? Yes, replies Coni, we did it, twice, and it was horrible. Jacqui can’t believe they’ve shared the same pain. Jerry’s like a dog, and was done in two minutes. He’s the worst lover in the world. We’re then treated to the downtrodden face of the worst lover in the world.
Outside, Aldo is sitting with his Dad Mauricio in the car, explaining the Estrella situation. He fills in Mauricio on what Katia did, what the boys Benjamin and Esteban did, and how he wants to handle problems himself. Mau tells him that violence never solves anything. But when Aldo asks Mau what he’d do if Monita were threatened, Mau admits he might bust some heads – if Monita didn’t do it first!
Watch out for Oscar, is Jacqui’s warning for Coni. Jerónimo’s just a puppet (un títere), but Oscar is bad news. Coni agrees, Oscar’s been demanding his money, but she had no problem blowing him off (lo mandé a la fregada). Her Mom doesn’t think she should have such a cavalier attitude. She tells Coni that Jero thinks Oscar may have been the one who offed Salvador, and for once in his life, Jerry could be right. So what do YOU think, daughter? Could Oscar have ordered the murder of Salvador? Could HE be behind the accident in Venezuela? Coni’s silence is deafening.
Isabel isn’t leaving until she talks with Nieves. Beto says no way, seeing you alive would kill her, she’s sure you’ve checked out (he says you hung up your high heels). Isabel realizes that Beto already knew she was still alive, and Beto agrees, his soul brother Mauricio doesn’t hide anything from him. In fact, he knows ALL about what Isabel did. Hissy hisses back, I didn’t come here to listen to any putdowns, least of all from someone as insignificant as YOU. Ouch. Outside, Nieves is just about to enter her apartment when Alicia intercepts her, and convinces her to talk a bit more about Cesar. They go off for some girl talk.
Mau’s bonding with Aldo is winding down, they’re at the door now, and Mau tells him the lawyers are trying to obtain some visitation rights for Mau. He really misses the girls, and is glad Aldo’s watching over them. Aldo (laying the groundwork for his upcoming declaration of independence), tells his Dad he loves caring for his sisters, but there’s a lot more in his life, shouldn’t he be able to concentrate on other things, too? Mau gives him an answer he probably didn’t want to hear. You’re still a year away from the age of majority (so Aldo is now 17), and of course you need to finish high school. Right. They hug and Aldo goes inside.
Gabi and Paula are sitting at opposite ends of a very long table in Moni’s apartment. Gabi has the strangest feeling. It’s like a premonition. Salvador’s trying to contact her. Paula’s into it, sure, Sal’s calling from the Great Beyond. Enter Estrella to give Gabi a hug, then Moni, then Ximena. There’s a group hug, which makes Gabi feel a bit better. Paula asks Gabi to repeat what she was feeling, and it’s like a tightness in the chest (opresión de pecho), she just feels that Sal is calling to her, begging her to help him. Xime’s enthused, she’s heard that after people die, their souls wander the earth, not content to move on until they’ve taken care of all pending matters. Let’s see, she continues. What had Sal not done? Marry me, answers Gabi wistfully.
Well? asks Jacqui of Coni. Do you know something about Salvador’s death? Ummm, no, of course not, in fact, I don’t even care, and, ummm, what’s more, I’m tired, I want to take off this dress and take a bath, okay? Fine, they’ll talk later. Coni heads towards her dressing room, as Jerry moves from the dressing room into the closet, sneaking behind some dresses. Coni enters barefoot, and Jerry secretly watches her enter the bathroom,
then quickly exits without her knowledge.
Xime thinks Gabi should try to contact Sal, to liberate his soul, so he can go towards the light. Estre’s skeptical, doesn’t believe in these things. Gabi says she’s always been skeptical (escéptica) too, but this is so real, there has to be an explanation. Well, Xime just happens to know a witch (una bruja), she’s really maraviguau, knows all about these things, and Gabi asks, can you take me to see her? Estrella wants to go, too, to find out about her future, is she making the right decisions? Moni doesn’t think Estre should trust her decisions to a bruja. Paula wants the bruja to cast a spell over Cristian to get him to pop the question, nothing else’s working on her stubborn boy. Moni doesn’t believe in all this stuff, but you know what? She’s going too, sisters together!
Nieves is finished talking to Alicia, and is just about to enter her apartment (again), when she’s intercepted by Paula, who tells her Gabi is here, in Moni’s apartment, and Nieves goes to give her a hug.
Inside Nieves’ apartment, Beto and Isabel are arguing. You have to leave, he says. Not until I talk with Nieves. There’s a knock on the door, and it’s Alicia. I think she says Nieves gave her the blue donkey purse, and she wants to pick it up. Isabel is surprised that Alicia’s in town. But there’s no way Beto’s going to let Alicia know Isabel is alive. What can they do?
Isabel lurks (I mean hides) behind the beads in Beto’s bedroom, as Alicia comes in, and sees Nieves isn’t there. Beto says she’s at Moni’s. Alicia is just about to leave, when she smells something. In fact, it’s perfume. Beto grasps for an explanation (as Alicia accidentally knocks her earring off, and picks it off the floor, in an unscripted moment I found hilarious, as the actors ignored it). Beto says he bought some perfume for his Mom, to cheer her up, what with Cesar leaving and all. Alicia recognizes the perfume as the one Isabel used to wear, she gets all misty, it’s almost as if Isabel were here (we see her behind the curtain).
Beto’s really nervous, but Alicia talks on and on, tells Beto that many people think she has no sense of humor, but really, she can be quite funny! (this scene is a scream, as we all know the actress playing Alicia is the real life mother of the actor playing Beto). Beto tries to usher Alicia out, but Alicia is laughing, she just HAS to tell Beto this terrific joke!
Let’s see, once they were in Moroleón, and they had to go to the D.F. Uh, no, maybe it was shopping. Wait a sec, ah yes, the doctor’s. She’s snapping her fingers, trying to remember, as Beto’s frantically urging her to just tell the neighbors, they’d really appreciate the joke. No, wait, now she remembers. They got on a bus, and ha ha ha, she can’t stop laughing, you’ll never believe it, a woman was so fat she took up two seats! And when Isabel saw her, she got right in front of her, and, and, (she fans herself, just can’t stop chuckling), she said in that very serious voice of hers (we see Isabel, not amused at all, behind the curtain), she said (Alicia imitates Isa’s low, expressionless voice), “Ah, Alicia, if they had told me that today the tickets were two for one, I wouldn’t have paid for yours!” She laughs uncontrollably, but it turns to a cry, she can’t help it, she wails, I miss her so much! She was my best friend, we were so good together. Beto, who has remained totally straightfaced throughout Alicia’s tirade, FINALLY convinces her to go over to Moni’s house.Out from the shadows comes Hisssabel. “Alicia hasn’t changed. She’s still as corny and ridiculous as ever. You can see how I couldn’t stand her. There were days I wanted to choke her. She just never shuts up.” Beto shakes his head.
Back to lurker number two (Jerry). He’s trying to sneak out of the house, but he hears footsteps, and ducks into a corner. Luisa and Jacqui enter from opposite sides, Luisa starts to tell Jacqui about Andrés. After they leave, Jerry ducks into Aldo’s room, just as Jacqui and Luisa come back. Luisa goes off to bed, and Jacqui goes to open Aldo’s door, but it’s locked. Aldo doesn’t say a word, but he and Jerry stare at each other, and the door. Jacqui says she knows he’s in there, wants to talk about Estrella.
We know have six ladies at that table, Gabi, Nieves, Moni, Xime, Paula, and Estrella, all conveniently sitting on one side so we, the audience can see them at the same time. Nieves is patting Gabi’s hand, SHE’s just experienced the same loss. You mean, Don Cesar died? asks Gabi. Nope – left her, says Alicia, entering to make a lucky seven of our luscious ladies. Nieves laments that it’s the same, her Cesarín left, without even saying goodbye. Sure, interjects Paula, but there is one difference. Cesar’s not dead. Alicia joins with the criticism of Nieves, and the two start going at it, until Moni calls a halt, if you two want to fight, take it outside. Gabi is grateful for all this support though, without it she’d be sinking into an abyss. Xime thinks this is poetic, in fact, she’s going to use it in her next love letter from Lalu to Arnie. She gets out her white feather pen to take notes.
For some reason, Aldo wants to talk with Jerónimo, and with Oscar, but that’s not happening right now, since Jacqui’s insistent with her knocking. Jerry goes to hide in the bathroom, and Aldo lets Jacqui in. She assures him she’s not like Coni, and will never tell Coni any of this. Estrella had asked her to help, and she’s ready to. Aldo wants her to butt out.
Beto can’t believe how cold Isabel is, to treat her best friend the way she does. He also remembers the day Isa abandoned Monita, who sat on the stool (la banqueta) outside the door to the vecindad, waiting all day for her mother to return. She suffered for years. But somehow, she overcame that, and is strong. You should be grateful for that. Isabel disagrees, Valentina should thank ME. This infuriates Beto.
The seven sisters are bubbling with excitement -
Let’s all cook the same thing! suggests Moni. Xime wants to go out – they could all get daiquiris. Gabi’s not in the mood, but Nieves remembers she made a mole de olla (like beef stew in a pot) that’s really yummy (de rechupete), and it’s enough for all of them. She goes off to get it, as the others will set the table. Gabi wants to help, but they tell her to stay put, she’s the guest of honor.Hissy explains why they should all thank her. By her leaving Valentina, that made her the strong young lady she is today. But, she says, picking up an apple, “the apple may be juicy, but that doesn’t mean it can’t spoil.” The snake bites deeply into the apple.
Outside, Nieves approaches her door for the third time, only to be called by Monita. Inside, Beto hears this, rushes over to Isabel, and grabs her from behind, clapping one hand over her apple-filled mouth to keep her quiet. He hustles her behind the beaded curtain as Nieves enters, looking for some plates that Moni needed. She calls out to him, and since there’s no answer, assumes he’s in a cantina, so much for his plan to be a priest. She leaves with the plates, and immediately Isabel, who has been struggling with Beto, elbows him in the ribs, breaking free, breathing heavily.
Aldo tells Jacqui he doesn’t want to be part of her family, doesn’t want her to be his granny. That’s good, replies Jacqui, because I’m much too young to be your granny. I can be like a young aunt, or an amiga. Besides, I don’t agree with what Coni is doing at all. I think you kids should be with your father, I know how much you’ve been suffering. And you know what? Life shouldn’t be about suffering. It should be about enjoyment, laughing, living intensely, life is like a big party. Aldo gives her a reality check. He and his sisters have lived in pain. Their mother died when Danni was a baby, they struggled to live in the orphanage, and only by Mauricio’s love have they been able to be a family. Jacqui understands, but thinks Aldo and Estrella aren’t ready to have their own family, that’s why she agreed to help Estrella. She knows a discreet gynecologist – No, interrupts Aldo. Estrella was confused, we’re having the baby. Jacqui doesn’t think Aldo’s looking at the situation over the long term (a largo plazo), but Aldo feels Jacqui is wrong, he IS being responsible, and he and Estrella will have the baby.
“How DARE you put your hands on me!” yells Isabel to Beto. All men are the same, they’re all PIGS who want to dominate women by force. Beto shows her how she hurt his finger when she elbowed him, but as he approaches, she screams for him to get away from her. Don’t worry, assures Beto, you’re not my type. But the snake splits venom, keep your disgusting hands away from me, no me toques, no me toques!
Jacqui tries to reason with Aldo. She was only twenty when she had Constanza, and was too young to be a responsible mother. She started viewing her children as obstacles to her life, and look what happened. Aldo thinks Estrella isn’t like Jacqui at all, but Jacqui disagrees. A child would ruin all of Estrella’s dreams.
Beto is pleading with Isabel. I didn’t mean to hurt you. But try to understand, if my Mom saw you alive and kicking (vivita y coleando), the shock could KILL her. Hissy responds that she WILL talk to Nieves. Beto says you’re scaring me, I’m sweating, look, smell this (he raises his arm). Hissy has a fit. You stink, I can’t stand your rotten smell! No, shoots back Beto. You’re the one who’s rotting, in your soul, in your heart. I will not let you see my mother, so leave! Fine, agrees Isabel, I’ll leave, but I’m coming back, because Nieves and I have unfinished business. Beto goes outside to see if the coast is clear, and guess who pops up? La Monita.
Moni wants to go inside to get some pots for the mole, but Beto won’t let her pass. He repeatedly stands in front of her, telling her things such as he knows all about pots for mole, they’re shaped liked boobies (I think that’s what he said), he can get them. Moni wasn’t born yesterday, though, how come you’re not letting me in Nieves’s apartment, Beto? Well, you can’t go in. Why, do you have someone in there? Some girl? No, oh course not. She tries to dodge him, but he keeps jumping in front of her, as she gets madder and madder.
Moni then looks over Beto’s shoulder, points, says look who just arrived!
Beto falls for it, looks, she punches him, and rushes past, opening the door as Beto winces in pain (he’s really getting a ribbing today). By this time, Hissy’s back in behind the beads. Moni doesn’t see anyone, so why didn’t Beto want her to come in? He says he let out a big one, didn’t want the smell to gross her out. Moni’s skeptical, doesn’t smell anything, wait a minute, she does. She smells perfume. Now she KNOWS there was a girl.
Aldo is firm. He knows the risks, but he and Estrella are ready to face them. Jacqui insists she’s just trying to help. Then why don’t you help yourself? Your own daughters need you. They’re both vipers, bent on getting what they want without regard to any other people’s feelings. Why don’t you put your own house in order? These wise words hit Jacqui hard.
Beto tells Moni he was with a girl, picked her up on the corner, but he didn’t pay, he just made out with her (la ligué, this is slang for made out with or had sex with someone, the word literally means to tie or bind, I guess it’s sort of like how kids in the U.S. say they’re “hooking up”). Moni is shocked, wasn’t he going to stop with the women, didn’t he want to guardar el silbato? (which means put away the “whistle”). Ah, but the flesh is weak, and I’m a macho billy goat, you know? Fine, says Moni, go with whomever you want, but what’s with bringing them back to your mother’s place, have you no shame? Well, he doesn’t have the dinero for a hotel, and by the way, when he brought the girl here, he had second thoughts, and the girl left, but not before she left her perfumy smell all over the place, of course. Moni starts to try to get a look behind the curtain, but Beto talks her out of it, he’s alone, doesn’t she trust him? Moni does, but wait a minute, that perfume reminds her of the one her mother wore. Ah well, she’ll go, but watch it with those dames, Beto.
The lurker emerges from her lair, telling Beto, I hope this shows you that I’m not interested in Valentina’s knowing that I’m alive……at least, not YET.
In another part of town, Jacqui has left Aldo, and Jerry the jerk can stop his lurk. He congratulates Aldo on putting Jacqui in her place, she deserved it, after leaving HIM, the most sought after (codiciado) bachelor in town. Yeah, says Aldo, according to whom?
Beto walks Hissabel all the way to her car, he’s not taking his eyes off her. She insists that his mother and she have to talk, about the man who left Nieves at the altar. Sure, Beto’s heard that story a million times, but what’s that got to do with you? More than you can imagine, she hisses. Did you know, Beto, that that man who loved your mother so much, is Marcos, the father of La Momia? You could knock Beto over with a feather.
And Monday looks great again. Oscar and Jerry have guns and money, and Gabi and Moni visit the manicomio. Will they see Salvador?
Vocabulario:
Un títere – a puppet
Escéptico(a) – skeptical
Una banqueta – a stool, can also mean the sidewalk or pavement, maybe that’s what it meant when Beto was telling Isabel about Moni’s waiting
De Rechupete – delicious, yummy, scrumptious
A largo plazo – over the long term
Vivita y coleando – alive and kicking, colear can mean to wag one’s tail
Ligarse – to make out, or to have sex (literally to bind oneself(ves)
Codiciado – sought after, coveted
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Thank you, Hombre, for a truly wonderful recap. I loved your overview on the delights of lurking; I have always said (tongue in cheek)that many people enter the profession of psychology because they love to watch. You have just given a delicious zing to my already guilty pleasure of watching this telenovela, as opposed to, say, seeking world peace or pulling the abundant weeds in my garden. Again, thank you.
Hissabel is truly terrifying. Now that I have accepted the idea that the actress may be wearing contacts to make her unblinking eyes seem so reptilian, she seems a little more human in her appearance, but she still has the feel of an alien to me.
This episode had so many gems, from Coni and Jaqui discussing Jero's shortcomings to this prizewinning recapper sentence on Beto,"her darling criatura opens the door to their apartment, turns on the lights, and finds a slimy snake lurking in the shadows. Her name? Hisssssabel. Beto is so scared he can’t quite turn off the gas, and Hissy holds her nose at the smelly result".
Here we had the counterpoint of the fart and Isabel's perfume and we were left to wonder if there was any difference at all?
Brilliant writing and acting on Gancho, and brilliant recapping by our Hombre de Misterio. You got it so right, Sr Misterio, that I wonder if you too, weren't lurking behind those beads in Nieves apartment?
Hissabel is truly terrifying. Now that I have accepted the idea that the actress may be wearing contacts to make her unblinking eyes seem so reptilian, she seems a little more human in her appearance, but she still has the feel of an alien to me.
This episode had so many gems, from Coni and Jaqui discussing Jero's shortcomings to this prizewinning recapper sentence on Beto,"her darling criatura opens the door to their apartment, turns on the lights, and finds a slimy snake lurking in the shadows. Her name? Hisssssabel. Beto is so scared he can’t quite turn off the gas, and Hissy holds her nose at the smelly result".
Here we had the counterpoint of the fart and Isabel's perfume and we were left to wonder if there was any difference at all?
Brilliant writing and acting on Gancho, and brilliant recapping by our Hombre de Misterio. You got it so right, Sr Misterio, that I wonder if you too, weren't lurking behind those beads in Nieves apartment?
Another stellar opening paragraph Hombre. Although I'm a terrible lurker...get really nervous during any scenes where someone might be discovered. The worst is detective stories where they're searching a room or something. I have to hide my eyes! So, count me out.
However, Jeronimo in the closet, hearing about his many defects was terrific. And Isabel lurking behind the curtains was...well, sad. She seemed psychopathic (shouldn't throw around those terms I know) in her reaction, or over-reaction to Beto's strongarming her. Clearly she is as traumatized by the attack as she was 30 years ago. No healing has taken place.
Also sad to hear her cynical rejection of Alicia's good-hearted friendship.
And a bit frustrating that not more happened in this episode. But yes, lots of lurking!
Loved Ximena's "abrazo grupal". She's a treasure. Sure hope they spot Salvador in the manicomio and that it's not another Isabel/Beto nuthin' happens type of night.
However, Jeronimo in the closet, hearing about his many defects was terrific. And Isabel lurking behind the curtains was...well, sad. She seemed psychopathic (shouldn't throw around those terms I know) in her reaction, or over-reaction to Beto's strongarming her. Clearly she is as traumatized by the attack as she was 30 years ago. No healing has taken place.
Also sad to hear her cynical rejection of Alicia's good-hearted friendship.
And a bit frustrating that not more happened in this episode. But yes, lots of lurking!
Loved Ximena's "abrazo grupal". She's a treasure. Sure hope they spot Salvador in the manicomio and that it's not another Isabel/Beto nuthin' happens type of night.
Dear Judy:
Hissabel's reaction to being touched was very sad, indeed. We can for sure diagnose her as BSC (Bat Shit Crazy) as discussed extensively on the Sorti forum and I am guessing the writers want us to see her as still suffering from Post Traumatic Strees Disorder (PTSD) with her reaction to Beto's touch.
IMHO.
EJ
Hissabel's reaction to being touched was very sad, indeed. We can for sure diagnose her as BSC (Bat Shit Crazy) as discussed extensively on the Sorti forum and I am guessing the writers want us to see her as still suffering from Post Traumatic Strees Disorder (PTSD) with her reaction to Beto's touch.
IMHO.
EJ
Hmmm BSCrazy...yes, that sounds like the diagnosis. Now the question is: was she always cold and unfeeling? or is this her reaction to the assault?
Marcos describes her as an iceberg in bed, yet she believes herself to be madly in love with him. Her reaction now is to loathe the touch of all men and to denounce them as pigs; Nieves has gone in the opposite direction and we seen her rollick with several men (including Costeño evidently) before Don Cesar.
Anyway, for me Isabel is still an enigma. Don't know if she's redeemable or not...but I would hate for dear little Monita to have a truly heartless mother. So I'm hoping for redemption and reconciliation.
As for Connie, I don't much care but ah heck, for Carlos' sake I'll hope for her redemption also.
Marcos describes her as an iceberg in bed, yet she believes herself to be madly in love with him. Her reaction now is to loathe the touch of all men and to denounce them as pigs; Nieves has gone in the opposite direction and we seen her rollick with several men (including Costeño evidently) before Don Cesar.
Anyway, for me Isabel is still an enigma. Don't know if she's redeemable or not...but I would hate for dear little Monita to have a truly heartless mother. So I'm hoping for redemption and reconciliation.
As for Connie, I don't much care but ah heck, for Carlos' sake I'll hope for her redemption also.
I say redeem them all.Let's find the spark of good in Coni and In Isabel and tend it carefully with our kindest wishes.
Gancho is eating 79% cacao dark chocolate, rich, and sinfully good and just a little biting. I want everyone to end up happy. I was just struck by the idea that in some ways the Gancho actors feel more like a great rep. theater company, a true ensemble, than most other shows I have watched (in any country). The actors seem generous with one another, and especially Beto is willing to yuk it up for another actor's benefit. You often see that kind of chemistry in long running live shows, where the actors are secure in themselves, their characters and their stories.
At any rate, I love the show and I love the recappers, every one of you.
Gancho is eating 79% cacao dark chocolate, rich, and sinfully good and just a little biting. I want everyone to end up happy. I was just struck by the idea that in some ways the Gancho actors feel more like a great rep. theater company, a true ensemble, than most other shows I have watched (in any country). The actors seem generous with one another, and especially Beto is willing to yuk it up for another actor's benefit. You often see that kind of chemistry in long running live shows, where the actors are secure in themselves, their characters and their stories.
At any rate, I love the show and I love the recappers, every one of you.
Great note on the chemisty of the actors. There does seeme to be genuine affection between them all. I believe Jarocha said in getting the cast together Beto or someone drafted in other friends among the acting set. But clearly, apart from that, a good chemistry has developed.
Just watched my recording of this episode. I have to agree with everyone about how great the chemistry is between everyone on this show- much like the chemistry between the folks here on the Gancho blog. And another fantastic recap Hombre. You never fail. :)
I actually felt something, besides hate, for Isabel for the first time in this episode when I saw how freaked out she got by Beto grabbing her. She really needs to get some help for her PTSD. Of course, watching the way she mocked Alicia, who has done nothing but stand by her and defend her for 30 years, erradicated any pity I may have had for her.
Has anyone else suspected that Alicia is in love with Isabel? Afterall, there has never been a mention of Alicia ever having had a beau, plus her devotion to and care of Isabel. Now, women can have incredibly intense friendships, but given how little Isabel has given back to Alicia in terms of friendship, it seems like another kind of love blinded Alicia to Isabel's faults.
I actually felt something, besides hate, for Isabel for the first time in this episode when I saw how freaked out she got by Beto grabbing her. She really needs to get some help for her PTSD. Of course, watching the way she mocked Alicia, who has done nothing but stand by her and defend her for 30 years, erradicated any pity I may have had for her.
Has anyone else suspected that Alicia is in love with Isabel? Afterall, there has never been a mention of Alicia ever having had a beau, plus her devotion to and care of Isabel. Now, women can have incredibly intense friendships, but given how little Isabel has given back to Alicia in terms of friendship, it seems like another kind of love blinded Alicia to Isabel's faults.
Vivi, you make a good point about Alicia's worship of Isabel possibly being more than just friendship. But sadly, it doesn't look as if Isabel will ever return any of those feelings.
It is fascinating, however, that so many of the minor characters in this novela are so well developed. I'm watching another comic novela, Perro Amor, in which, at least so far, the whole thing revolves around the two stars. The other characters are pretty much defined by whether they are for or against the leads' getting together. I really enjoy having so many stories going on at once (Gabi/Sal, Paula/Cristian, Luisa/Ivan/Andres, Aldo/Estrella, Oscar/Jerry, Xime/Rolu/Arnie/Lalu, Nieves/Cesar), and all these on top of the main attraction, Moni/Mau/Coni/Beto.
It is fascinating, however, that so many of the minor characters in this novela are so well developed. I'm watching another comic novela, Perro Amor, in which, at least so far, the whole thing revolves around the two stars. The other characters are pretty much defined by whether they are for or against the leads' getting together. I really enjoy having so many stories going on at once (Gabi/Sal, Paula/Cristian, Luisa/Ivan/Andres, Aldo/Estrella, Oscar/Jerry, Xime/Rolu/Arnie/Lalu, Nieves/Cesar), and all these on top of the main attraction, Moni/Mau/Coni/Beto.
There seemed to be hints that Alicia and Isabel were a couple much earlier when they were living together in that little backwater town. And then that seemed to evaporate...especially since Isabel's feigned death left Alicia in the dark. A one-sided affection, regardless of the nature. Alicia is warm, open, blowsy and affectionate, if a tad on the "metiche" side...just like Nieves. Isabel, on the other hand, is a slender, regal ice sculpture.
Agree that it will take a major miracle for our Isabel to be redeemed, but we still have a ways to go on Gancho.
Agree that it will take a major miracle for our Isabel to be redeemed, but we still have a ways to go on Gancho.
Ribht back atcha Hombre. Hope your wife is spoiling you today with a yummy dinner, fine wine, lacy lingerie and maybe a new español libro.
And that you are spoiling her of course with French perfume, a bouquet of roses, passionate love letter....and from there...you're on your own, pal.
And that you are spoiling her of course with French perfume, a bouquet of roses, passionate love letter....and from there...you're on your own, pal.
Hombre, great job. Your photos, as always, are great and your descriptions always give us a "you are there,"feel. On Friday's I've started trying to guess what your underlying theme might be. So far, you've continued to surprise me with that analysis.
It was exciting and amusing seeing all the ladies together and a little frightening, all that
estrogenic energy. I do hope they make that visit to the witch. It conjures up all sorts of possibilities for mirth or intrigue.
Happy Valentine's day to all.
Carlos
It was exciting and amusing seeing all the ladies together and a little frightening, all that
estrogenic energy. I do hope they make that visit to the witch. It conjures up all sorts of possibilities for mirth or intrigue.
Happy Valentine's day to all.
Carlos
Can somebody explain to me how this guy Marcos is a mother? I think it was how the sentence was worded. "Did you know, Beto, that that man who loved your mother so much, is Marcos, the mother of La Momia?" And as I don't get to watch this every day (damn time change) who is La Momia?
Permalink posted by 
: Sunday, February 14, 2010 at 7:00:00 PM EST
: Sunday, February 14, 2010 at 7:00:00 PM EST
Hi Christine. Good to hear from you. The time change on this is a drag, isn't it? Surely the sentence was Marcos is the father of la Momia (everybody's nickname for Constanza)...but also Marcos was the fiancé of Nieves, and left her at the altar, pregnant (but not by him).
However I don't think Beto knows who his mom was pregnant by...so right now he may be worried that he hooked up with his half-sister.
Clear as mud? Take it away Hombre.
However I don't think Beto knows who his mom was pregnant by...so right now he may be worried that he hooked up with his half-sister.
Clear as mud? Take it away Hombre.
Hah! Boy, am I dumb! Thanks, Christine, of course Isabel said Marcos is the FATHER of La Momia. And you were the first to catch my typo. You have to realize some of us (like me) are a bit reality challenged, and mistakes do happen, but anyway, thank you. I fixed the goof.
As Judy said, La Momia (the Mummy) is what everyone calls Constanza, the villainess of our story. I think Beto is so shocked because HE had an affair with Coni, and now he's found out that his Mom had an affair with Coni's Dad, so many years ago. He probably never dreamed that his Mom was left at the altar by a rich guy, let alone this fellow who's recently come to town, bought out Mauricio's company, and was super mean to Beto. In other words, Beto sort of hates this guy, and now he finds out his mother loved (loves?) him. It's quite a shock.
Anyway, if you need any more explanation, just ask away, and we'll try to fill you in. Thanks for commenting!
As Judy said, La Momia (the Mummy) is what everyone calls Constanza, the villainess of our story. I think Beto is so shocked because HE had an affair with Coni, and now he's found out that his Mom had an affair with Coni's Dad, so many years ago. He probably never dreamed that his Mom was left at the altar by a rich guy, let alone this fellow who's recently come to town, bought out Mauricio's company, and was super mean to Beto. In other words, Beto sort of hates this guy, and now he finds out his mother loved (loves?) him. It's quite a shock.
Anyway, if you need any more explanation, just ask away, and we'll try to fill you in. Thanks for commenting!
Carlos, I too am looking forward to the visit to the witch/fortune teller by the ladies. Maybe it'll occur on your watch!
Hissabel.... That just might be one of the best nicknames ever. I too loved your thoughts on lurking, and there were certainly a couple of lurkers in this episode, Isabel and Jerry. Thanks Hombre.
That was quite a scene with Coni and Jaqui discussing Jerry and him hearing it all, that was uncomfortable!
I am interested in Isabel, under the hissing, there is such pain. She's coiled like a snake, yes Judy, there has been no healing.
That was quite a scene with Coni and Jaqui discussing Jerry and him hearing it all, that was uncomfortable!
I am interested in Isabel, under the hissing, there is such pain. She's coiled like a snake, yes Judy, there has been no healing.
Hombre: Thank yoy for another great recap. Nice introduction, I was wondering what would be your theme for this episode and you found a great one. Pretty interesting how you found the connection between the hiding of Isabel and Jerónimo. It's been said how this show is usually so symetrical and it's so true.
Judy and Elna: Yes Raúl Araiza invited Verónica Jaspeado and Laisha Wilkins to do casting for the show. He had previously worked with them and they were friends offscreen. People usually say he is the one everybody gets attached on set. When Danna García was asked during an interview in Colombia were she is currently working in a novela who she missed the most she answered Raúl and I know he also has a nice friendship with Margarita Magaña. Danna, Margarita, Lorena Enríquez (Paula) and Ricardo Margaleff (Arnie) went together to visit the natural park Xel-Ha near Cancún last year. Verónica and Laisha must also know each other for a while since Verónica used to date with one of Laisha's best friends around the time he and Laisha were producing and conducting a show together.
Jarocha
Judy and Elna: Yes Raúl Araiza invited Verónica Jaspeado and Laisha Wilkins to do casting for the show. He had previously worked with them and they were friends offscreen. People usually say he is the one everybody gets attached on set. When Danna García was asked during an interview in Colombia were she is currently working in a novela who she missed the most she answered Raúl and I know he also has a nice friendship with Margarita Magaña. Danna, Margarita, Lorena Enríquez (Paula) and Ricardo Margaleff (Arnie) went together to visit the natural park Xel-Ha near Cancún last year. Verónica and Laisha must also know each other for a while since Verónica used to date with one of Laisha's best friends around the time he and Laisha were producing and conducting a show together.
Jarocha
Permalink posted by : Monday, February 15, 2010 at 1:00:00 AM EST
: Monday, February 15, 2010 at 1:00:00 AM EST
Thanks Jarocha. We love all this inside information. One gets the impression that the actor playing Beto doesn't take himself too seriously, has a great sense of fun and humor and...well, warmth. His mom exudes warmth as well. Granted her character is supposed to be that way...but when you're happy to have your own mom on the set, she must be pretty great!
Hombre, thanks for offering the help, I never realized how commenting on these novelas is so much like life, all details are necessary! (Not that I "comment" on my friends lives, oh well...you know what I mean!)
I was raised in a family of three girls and now have a son and two grandsons. I'm amazed how life can change your perspective from a woman's viewpoint to a man's. I was uncomfortable with the "girl talk" heard by Jerry, even though I know he isn't one of the good guys. This scene was presented in a light hearted way, and I took it as that, but wonder if you could ever present a scene like this as playful if the roles were reversed, a couple of guys dishing on a gal!! What would we think of the guys? Truthfully, the thing that I like about Gancho, is that it is TOTALLY light heated, even the bad guys are fun. We've been served some heavy novelas lately......love Gancho for the laughs!!!
I was raised in a family of three girls and now have a son and two grandsons. I'm amazed how life can change your perspective from a woman's viewpoint to a man's. I was uncomfortable with the "girl talk" heard by Jerry, even though I know he isn't one of the good guys. This scene was presented in a light hearted way, and I took it as that, but wonder if you could ever present a scene like this as playful if the roles were reversed, a couple of guys dishing on a gal!! What would we think of the guys? Truthfully, the thing that I like about Gancho, is that it is TOTALLY light heated, even the bad guys are fun. We've been served some heavy novelas lately......love Gancho for the laughs!!!
Sandy, you're right, the scene with the gals critiquing Jerry's performance would not work in reverse. I could see some guys saying a woman was like a "dead fish", but that wouldn't be funny. The funny part stems from men's insecurities about their sexual prowess, something which isn't nearly as talked about with women.
But as you also pointed out, the light hearted tone of the novela may the scene work.
It's also interesting that a bunch of the guys (Jerry, Beto, Arnie) are constantly trying to prove how "macho" they are, when there isn't even a corresponding word for females (well, there is "sexy", but it's not really the same thing).
But as you also pointed out, the light hearted tone of the novela may the scene work.
It's also interesting that a bunch of the guys (Jerry, Beto, Arnie) are constantly trying to prove how "macho" they are, when there isn't even a corresponding word for females (well, there is "sexy", but it's not really the same thing).
Judy I think Raúl is very easygoing, everybody seems to love him in every work he does. Norma Herrera is also very nice and her other son Armando is also well liked although he plays mostly villains.
I agree about the scene with Jerónimo. It worked because he was a man and Jaqui and Coni were women, but I also think that the fact that his charactere has been presented as part of the bad guys and a bit of a loser helps. Coni and Jaqui are the kind of characteres that would say that type of things without remorse too so you don't feel bothered by the way they talk.
Jarocha
I agree about the scene with Jerónimo. It worked because he was a man and Jaqui and Coni were women, but I also think that the fact that his charactere has been presented as part of the bad guys and a bit of a loser helps. Coni and Jaqui are the kind of characteres that would say that type of things without remorse too so you don't feel bothered by the way they talk.
Jarocha
Permalink posted by : Monday, February 15, 2010 at 1:12:00 PM EST
: Monday, February 15, 2010 at 1:12:00 PM EST
Ahoy all, I was visiting with friends this weekend and just now had a chance to watch and read. I hope everyone had a fun Valentine's Day (or Single Awareness day as my adorable, single, assistant says). Also, for those who have today off to celebrate President's Day I hope we are able to squeeze in at least one or two fun activities.
Hombre, as a fan of Austin may I say I LOVE your title! Like you it is clever, amusing and spot-on. I couldn't agree more with your lurker's analysis, made all the more appropriate because it includes us in this story within a story within a story.
I, too, felt a horrified sadness at Isabel's reaction to Beto grabbing her. That woman needs some serious help. How sad that she has lived her entire life clearly not able to experience any healing from the event that has traumatized and defined her life.
Vivi's comment about Alicia and Isabel's relationship reminded me that when they were first introduced I briefly assumed they were a "couple" of some sort. Well, as you folks say, if it's true it seems to be one-sided. Alicia may be a metiche but she deserves better in a friend.
I do hope our adorable Lucky Seven visit a bruja. It could be a fantastic sub-plot.
As for Gabi discovering Sal, I refuse to get my hopes up that it will be tonight. If it's just a teaser I will be too crushed.
Thanks Hombre. Your recaps are always incredibly satisfying. You do a great job of distilling the details into a wonderful tale, yet another layer of story within a story.
Hombre, as a fan of Austin may I say I LOVE your title! Like you it is clever, amusing and spot-on. I couldn't agree more with your lurker's analysis, made all the more appropriate because it includes us in this story within a story within a story.
I, too, felt a horrified sadness at Isabel's reaction to Beto grabbing her. That woman needs some serious help. How sad that she has lived her entire life clearly not able to experience any healing from the event that has traumatized and defined her life.
Vivi's comment about Alicia and Isabel's relationship reminded me that when they were first introduced I briefly assumed they were a "couple" of some sort. Well, as you folks say, if it's true it seems to be one-sided. Alicia may be a metiche but she deserves better in a friend.
I do hope our adorable Lucky Seven visit a bruja. It could be a fantastic sub-plot.
As for Gabi discovering Sal, I refuse to get my hopes up that it will be tonight. If it's just a teaser I will be too crushed.
Thanks Hombre. Your recaps are always incredibly satisfying. You do a great job of distilling the details into a wonderful tale, yet another layer of story within a story.
Great recap, Hombre. You really do have a knack for figuring out the overarching themes. And "Hissabel" is spot on. She even makes biting an apple seem like a criminal act.
It would be nice to see the Isabel actress again some day in a role something like Jacqueline. As it is, she's just creepy beyond words -like some kind of Goth character. Wonder is she sleeps in a box of Transylvanian dirt and, for that matter, have we seen her reflection in a mirror yet?
Jeronimo in the closet - he probably got over the trash talk as soon as he got a view of Coni's bare feet.
It would be nice to see the Isabel actress again some day in a role something like Jacqueline. As it is, she's just creepy beyond words -like some kind of Goth character. Wonder is she sleeps in a box of Transylvanian dirt and, for that matter, have we seen her reflection in a mirror yet?
Jeronimo in the closet - he probably got over the trash talk as soon as he got a view of Coni's bare feet.
Mike, you're in in Kentucky, right? We were going to Bowling Green today and there was enough snow that we were told not to come...now I'm sitting here posting when I should be doing something else!
I'm just glad Jerry skedaddled when Coni entered the bath room and didn't choose to "lurk" outside.
Clarification note, was the rape of Isabel before her marriage to Marcos? She is icy cold now, Marcos said she was "cold' in bed, she wouldn't let Beto touch her and to top it off, she has such sadness in her eyes. I might have already heard the answer to this, but my cabeza isn't as good as it used to be at "cramming" and retaining facts.
I'm just glad Jerry skedaddled when Coni entered the bath room and didn't choose to "lurk" outside.
Clarification note, was the rape of Isabel before her marriage to Marcos? She is icy cold now, Marcos said she was "cold' in bed, she wouldn't let Beto touch her and to top it off, she has such sadness in her eyes. I might have already heard the answer to this, but my cabeza isn't as good as it used to be at "cramming" and retaining facts.
Sandy, I'm from Kentucky originally, but retired from the Air Force in Yorktown, VA. Emilia's from West Virginia originally, so "nos otros" are the resident Appalachian Americans here.
Sandy- I may be wrong about this, because surprisingly my memory is fuzzy about that particular episode (I may have been multitasking at the time or perhaps it happened before I got my dvr and could only read the recaps). It was a conversation between Isabel and Marco as well as another between her and Mau in another more recent episode. Anyway, I got the impression that the rape happened, then she went to Marco for consolation and they slept together (and she couldn't respond sexually), then she turned up pregnant and Marco rejected her saying that the baby had to be a product of the rape. Hence, regardless of whether Valentina was Marco's or the rapist's, she still blamed Moni for being responsible for losing her the man she loved. Someone tell me if I'm wrong and Isabel slept with MArco before the rape.
Mike and Emilia,
Do you all like Loretta Lynn? She's Appalachian! Coal Miner's Daughter is one of the best movies of all time. I visited my sister in Paintsville, Kentucky once, she was a missionary there. Beautiful place but ruined by mining and more than that, extreme poverty.
Having lurked her for a while, I know OT discussions are tolerated a little more!!
Do you all like Loretta Lynn? She's Appalachian! Coal Miner's Daughter is one of the best movies of all time. I visited my sister in Paintsville, Kentucky once, she was a missionary there. Beautiful place but ruined by mining and more than that, extreme poverty.
Having lurked her for a while, I know OT discussions are tolerated a little more!!
Vivi,
I hope that you are right on your time line, I so want to have something to hang my hat on with Hissabel's incredible coldness. EJ isn't here today yet, I'd love to have her ( on anyone else's) take on all of this regarding Hissy's personality.
Vivi, I'm not the first to say this....wow, what a brain you have. I'm never playing Trivial Pursuits or Jeopardy or any type of memory game with you!!!
I hope that you are right on your time line, I so want to have something to hang my hat on with Hissabel's incredible coldness. EJ isn't here today yet, I'd love to have her ( on anyone else's) take on all of this regarding Hissy's personality.
Vivi, I'm not the first to say this....wow, what a brain you have. I'm never playing Trivial Pursuits or Jeopardy or any type of memory game with you!!!
Yes indeed Sandy. We in Gancholandia are more than happy to go down most any rabbit hole if it interests one or more of the group.
Sylvia,
I've been meaning to tell you how much I enjoyed your vacation photos from Guanajuato. Of course, the best one was the last dance at the Cantina! I really like both Queretero and Guanajuato, not as American as San Miguel.
I've been here for a lot of the fun, the old car stories, Hombre's music info, just kept my mouth shut, because I wasn't watching the show. Always knew this was a fun place.
I've been meaning to tell you how much I enjoyed your vacation photos from Guanajuato. Of course, the best one was the last dance at the Cantina! I really like both Queretero and Guanajuato, not as American as San Miguel.
I've been here for a lot of the fun, the old car stories, Hombre's music info, just kept my mouth shut, because I wasn't watching the show. Always knew this was a fun place.
Thank you Sandy. The trip exceeded all my expectations. Novelera and a few other Caray folk gave me some great tips, not to mention I knew some locals which always helps. It's funny you mention the dancing photo because my friend and I were just discussing how differently the young people interacted with us down there compared to up here in the states. They didn't take us dancing just to be polite, they really wanted to go out with us to show us their town and to talk and party with us. I'm in my mid 50's and young people in the states so often assume I'm "out of it". Of course they couldn't be more wrong but you can't tell young people that. In Guanajuato they were incredibly respectful and wanted to do stuff with us every day. Julia and her entourage of lovely young men would hang around her house waiting for us to show up. It was fantastic. I hope to go back someday but there are also other places in Mexico I would like to visit as well. Jarocha has sent me some great links to Veracruz so that is on my list. I've heard wonderful things about Queretero so I guess I'll have to add that as well.
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