Thursday, December 09, 2010
La Verdad Oculta #061: Roberto in the driver's seat
At the tunnel house, Santiago amazes David and Abelardo with news that someone broke into the makeup studio and made way through the tunnel last night. They can only guess Bertha or one of the servants figured it out, so Abelardo takes charge of cleaning Mario's bedchamber from now on.
Putting it down to robbery, David then explains he's hiring a private investigator to find Dora -- and he's visiting Carlos to confirm his trefoil ring is a match to Mario's cuff link. Santiago agrees on robbery; because were the culprit Bertha, the stuff would already have hit the fan.
At breakfast at the mansion, Gabriela's not buying David's assurance everything is ok. At Adolfo's, he's upset to hear about Yolanda's conversations with David and Leonardo, but especially to learn Leonardo's reopened the old murder case and suspecting someone besides Santiago.
Back at Mario's, David lies to Julieta that the security guards on the grounds are against a rash of neighborhood break-ins. Inside Julieta's tickled Leonardo phoned and made a lunch date with her; but is surprised when Gabriela explains about the smuggling shoes he'll likely ask about.
David confronts Carlos at the Sagittarius office, getting a proper gander of the trefoil ring. Carlos must consent when David insists that even adopted, he's still Mario's legal heir. But tit-for-tat, grinning David infuriates and rattles Carlos with the shoe story that his own father is a jewel smuggler.
And David lies he indeed possesses the remaining photo after all. At Mario's, Gabriela snoops and finds his bedchamber locked and notes "Mario's" alarm when David phones him, explaining the visit to the Sagittarius, hoping the ruse will work and the Ávilas will cancel the contract.
For Carlos's part, he phones Adolfo to brace him immediately, angrily swearing he won't do jail time for Adolfo's crimes, if true. Adolfo tells him to keep his mouth shut, calls him an idiot and hangs up. Adolfo thinks the photo could be a ruse, but Yolanda begs him to cancel the contract now.
They ponder who could have told David -- Gabriela's dad? Leonardo? If David has proof, why didn't he just tell the cop? Adolfo's face lights up suddenly, deducing that maybe the Genovéses have something to hide. Later, Yolanda phones Gabriela to speak to absent Santiago; but instead Gabriela makes a date with Yolanda for the next day.
Gabriela hangs up -- just before eavesdropping Susana does so on the kitchen extension. Adolfo drives to Roberto's, but misses him heading out. At Mario's, the guards halt Roberto until Susana vouches for him coming to visit Mario. Santiago doesn't know Roberto and must believe Susana that he's a family friend to see Mario.
Upon entering the office, Roberto claims Mario promised him work; and when Santiago cheerily goes along, Roberto can't contain his loony laughter at catching "Mario" in his ploy. Roberto removes "Mario's" glasses, reaches for the letter opener and savagely plunges it -- into Santiago's false belly!
With Roberto rebounding in mad mirth, Santiago springs up wild-eyed; and Roberto grabs the bogus nose and wig, revealing it was he in the tunnel last night and he knows "Mario" is a fraud! He plans to make a lot of money off it, shoves his business card at Santiago, and exits -- warning in a menacing whisper not to make him wait!
Terrorized Santiago tugs the stiletto from the prop and desperately phones David to come immediately, before racing to the tunnel house to shout their exposure to horrified Abelardo. He explains all, and Abelardo tries to calm Santiago's worst nightmare: that his daughters will think he murdered their mother!
Back at Mario's, Gabriela informs David she's meeting with Yolanda to talk about Márta, the shoes, her dad's odd disappearance, just as David's rushing to help Santiago in the studio. Upon arrival, David's disgusted to hear the culprit would have to be Roberto and phones him right away to make a visit.
Meanwhile, Santiago nervously phones Yolanda, claiming from Chihuahua, imploring that she not tell Gabriela about Márta. David arrives at Roberto's, failing to learn anything except the blackmail amount of $2 million pesos -- and that Roberto's truly anxious to know where Mario really is.
Upon David's return to the tunnel house, he ponders with Santiago and Abelardo why Roberto could be sure the man in Mario's office wouldn't be the real one; and Santiago points out -- unless he knew Mario was no longer around!
At lunch, Julieta's happy to answer Leonardo's questions, judging rightly he agrees, that he wouldn't do anything to hurt them. Leonardo is most interested to know if David booted Bertha before or after his own visit and wants Julieta to find out.
Up in the architectural studio, Mina teases Alejandra over torturing herself to distraction with torrid memories; while across town Asunción grins knowingly at sad Juan José over fondly kissing his beer bottle daydreaming the same thing.
At the AFI, Leonardo explains to Ramón that earlier David didn't seem surprised -- but claimed not to know -- about the shoe caper. If David booted Bertha from the house BEFORE Leonardo's visit, then he knew already. Question is, who would have told him? Santiago?
And if Bertha isn't the thief, then maybe Adolfo has someone else planted in the mansion, Ramón suggests. Just then, Bertha phones, and Leonardo remakes a meeting with her right away. Hanging up, Leonardo notes that Bertha didn't want to be picked up from wherever she was -- and charges Ramón to tail her afterward.
In Gabriela's bedroom suite, Julieta stresses to her sister that they should trust Leonardo; if they are caught up in some trouble, he's the only one to help them. And she tells of his interest in the timing of Bertha's departure. Meanwhile, Roberto visits Adolfo at the condo to break off their association.
Adolfo is astounded and indignant Roberto would pull that, especially after taking his $5 million pesos -- until while lifting him by double fistfuls of shirt collar, Adolfo learns Roberto possesses a certain photo with a certain pair of shoes.
Labels: verdad
The mystery, suspense and drama continue to build. Your all-encompassing, carefully crafted recap along with picture-perfect photos were the quintessential accompaniments. "But tit-for-tat, grinning David infuriates and rattles Carlos", "Roberto can't contain his loony laughter at catching "Mario" in his ploy...", "...Roberto rebounding in mad mirth..." were simply fabulous.
While shredding Mario's masquerade, Roberto was giddy with madness. He reminded me of Arcadio (CS), who was also giddy but with happiness, particularly when cavorting unencumbered, spying on his victims, frolicking and peeking from the safety of a thicket of trees.
Is Roberto the stupidest or bravest of characters? I imagine the wounds (and pain) of his beatings have not yet fully healed, yet he has the audacity to try and go against Adolfo!?
Who would have thought David would be thrust into the role of savior - trying to salvage this drastic turn of events?
I tuned into this show initially for romance, I continue to watch for the non-stop action and fascinating story.
Jeri, thank you for superbly capturing the exciting, unexpected events of last night.
Please forgive my repetition, but I can't wait until tonight!
Diana
Fabián Robles rules, I can't praise enough his acting. His Roberto is an unscrupulous, crazy, mean murderer who's enchanting and entertaining in a very perverse way.
Great title, this sure was Roberto's night. What a screenshot of his mad laugh and hot breath in 'Mario's' face. Poor 'Mario' was scared out of his wits while Roberto was unmasking him.
More blackmail money for Roberto. I was surprised that David made out a cheque for the money. Roberto will be sure to come back for more to keep his mouth shut. David should arrange to have him locked up somewhere until the contract expires.
Wonder if Roberto will also blackmail Adolfo for more money now that he has threatened him with the photo.
Margaret
Margaret
I truly think Roberto went mad killing Mario and the chauffeur. He was never stable, but he has acted quite mad since that event.
He felt something -- guilt, horror; something. That is clear every time he recounts the burning bodies. And it made him slip over the edge.
(As opposed to, say, Félix, who does a workmanlike job without a peep.)
(*Televisa actors, of course.)
Telemundo's song is cute, too.
link
But still, I don't think Roberto will stop at that amount, he will want more and more to keep his mouth shut.
Margaret
Margaret
I love the young star of Hermanos y Detectives and was happy to see him front and center.
Jeri, you're so right about David. His new found authority and strength are very appealing and very sexy.
Margaret, I'm also positive Roberto will be back for more! Blackmail - the gift that keeps on giving :)
Diana
I can't stand Susanna, but I think she's beginning to sense that she shouldn't trust Roberto.
I love how smart the good guys are-- that they immediately thought there must be a reason why Roberto was so sure Mario was gone. Unfortunately, the bad guys are also pretty smart-- Adolfo figuring out that the Genoves' must have something to hide as well, if they aren't just going to expose him to the police right away with the photo, but instead negotiate to terminate the contract. It's like watching a good/tense game of chess. I also like that the good guys are just as nosey and sneaky as the bad guys (I chuckled at Gabi snooping behind Mario). Usually in tns, only the bad guys have the snoopy genes and the good guys have no curiosity at all! Unfortunately, Susana is both sneaky AND lucky and stuff just falls right into her lap, which she just hands right over to Roberto. Ugh! If Leo was as lucky as she is, this whole thing would be wrapped up right now.
It was cute and funny how Susana teased Leo about him only wanting to have lunch with her because Bertha stood him up, and because he wanted to get info out of her. She's such a good sport about things. I like that he admitted he wants to get info, but also that he wanted to spend time with her as well. I think she liked that.
***
I'm recapping next episode and I'm impressed again.
Thanks Jeri, for the fabulous recap; loved the headline and the photos of rabid Roberto...using your Journalism skills to the max.
Thanks Aribeth for the links to the 2 holiday songs.
I have never watched Telemundo.
Are there any recommendations for
worthwhile novelas from the audience?
When turning down David's check, Roberto used the term "en efectivo"
which means cash. Blackmailers don't take kindly to checks.
After David left, it seems that Roberto felt a twang of remorse -
but only a touch; he's in way too deep to reverse his course. It's
seems also that he knows full well how much of a scumbag he is and that he could never measure up to David or Carlos re the work ethic.
You probably remember that David
referred to Roberto early in the
novela as "bueno para nada" a good
for nothing. Nevertheless, David still listened to Roberto's
half truths and agreed to his false
wedding concept. Roberto's picture should have been put up with the others in the tunnel house and labeled "persona non grata;" however, we need these flaws to keep the show on the road.
Still, I agree with Aribeth,
Fabian Robles rules! He's the reason I became hooked. Since I am by nature a night owl, I just
happened to see the novela the
very first night it was on and recognized him from STUD.... and
have been watching breathlessly ever since. I get most of it, but there are always some important details that I miss. I am studying Spanish formally and informally.
Verdad is an exceptionally awesome way to supplement textbook learning. Thanks to all the recappers, and I especially enjoy the insightful comments of all
who are deeply involved with this novela. And I forgot to mention
that I am enchanted with the theme song and plan to memorize the words
over the Christmas break. It truly sets the tone and mood of the novela each evening.
I don't think Roberto went over the edge when he killed Mario. I think it happened way before that. Roberto is one of those guys who feeds off fear. Remember the hotel maid; Carlos was trying to stop him and pull him off her and that's exactly when Roberto threw the maid over the balcony railing. The fear of both of them made him stronger. Remember the girl in the pool? He wasn't going to stop then either, but she got away.
I think fear is like a drug to Roberto. Notice how weak he is around someone he respects/fears. Adolfo scares Roberto so much he couldn't even pull himself away. Roberto got lucky when he threatened Adolfo. He was bargaining from a position of sniveling weakness but it worked. Adolfo backed off. But imagine if Adolfo had pressed it, said, "You have nothing", tightened his grip and backed Roberto against the wall. My guess is Roberto would have folded, slunk out and counted himself lucky to get away alive.
Regarding Telemundo novelas- I watch one faithfully (Alguien te Mira), and two others on and off when I have time to watch my recordings or find Eva Luna too boring (El Fantasma de Elena and Aurora). Aurora is still in early stages, so it may not be too late to catch up with it. Cryogenics, long lost love, and revenge are the main themes. Interesting but a bit frustrating as the heroine is being easily manipulated and is acting like a villain causing all kinds of trouble trying to get revenge. Fantasma is a hot mess with every novela cliché thrown in, but also great campy fun. But, it's coming to an end soon. Alguien, the one I love, is also near its last stages (I think). The serial killer has been revealed to the audience, but not yet to the other players. It's set in Chicago, with some wonderful actors, and an unusual plot for a novela.
If you want to check out the discussions/summaries for these three novelas, there is a discussion space here on Caray Caray for them, El Mundo de Telemundo: http://www.delicious.com/caray/Telemundo
The posts are once a week, with folks coming back during the week writing mini recaps in the comments and/or discussing the day's/week's events. It can be a bit confusing if you're not watching any of the shows, but check out the once a week summary recaps to see if anything strikes your interest.
Just to repeat, Fabián Robles was honored with Best Villain of the year at a relatively young age of 30 for his role in Apuesta Por Un Amor (2004).
- Pasión de gavilanes (2003-2004)
The first remake of the colombian Las aguas mansas with Mario Cimmaro and Danna Garcia. It's kind of cult telenovela. The second remake was Fuego en la sangre.
- Tierra de pasiones (2006)
It's a half Colombian and half Telemundo show that was very successful. The protagonists are Gabriela Spanic, Saul Lisazo and Francisco Gattorno.
It's freaking popular in my country, it was repeated at least 3 times.
- Victoria (2007)
Victoria Ruffo's box office show.
- Zorro: La espada y la rosa (2007)
With Christian Meier and Marlene Favela.
I'd like to watch Los plateanos (another period telenovela) because I'm in love with Mauricio Islas since El manantial and Amor real. (Where HE was my hero, not Fer's character.)
I plan to go to a language school
in Antigua, Guatemala in February for about 6 weeks to work on my conversation skills. Then I'll see what's brewing.
I wonder how long will Susana eavedrop on private conversations as well as taking pertinent items from the house without being busted. At the breakneck speed that this novela is going not for long I suspect. My seatbelt it girded tight around me as we enter into overdrive.
Wow, Floridia, when you get back, we'll be wondering how your recapping skills are, I hope you know. ;-) Sounds like a fabulous trip. LVO finishes in February, I heard.
Adolfo heard two stories about the Gabi photo. Carlos stated that David claimed he is in possession of the photo and Roberto also states he has it. Who will he believe? Probably, Roberto since he is being bold enough to challenge Adolfo and Adolfo has a feeling the Genoveses are hiding something by not taking the famous photo to the police.
I am thankful they threw in a little romance to give my poor brain a rest from all the fast moving events. I still can't decide if E Y was desnudo or not but why pixalate otherwise. Btw, STuD has numerous skips in the musical score due to some editing of the Val/JM hookup last night. I digress.
It will be amazing to see how this novela can continue for another 50 + episodes at this pace and with it's convoluted storyline. I do love and appreciate this gem so much.
Almost forgot to mention that Ramon commented to Leo that if Bertha wasn't responsible for the disappearance of the photo maybe Adolfo has someone, maybe a criada, on the inside of the Genoves' home. He's not far off the mark and hope Leo follows up on it.
GinCA
It will be interesting to see what Ramón comes up with following Bertha, too.
All of these intricate moving pieces fit together nicely.
Julio Alemán
Galilea Montijo
Alejandra Barros
I love Julio's voice.
The ladies are still pretty. Alejandra is one of the protagonists of the telenovela called Para volver a amar. May critics said it's the best TN Televisa made in years.
Roberto is such a fascinating character, he is a creep but he is great to watch. I completely understand Alejandra when episodes ago she said she didn't like him that much but he was amusing so she was passing the time with him.
I like Susana, maybe it's because I like the actress but while she is not that smart she does have a survival instinct and I don't think she's done anything that bad yet.
Thank you Aribeth for the clips. I enjoyed the christmas/new year's song and the interviews. I think Alejandra Barros looks great, she even seemed younger to me than in LVO.
About Telemundo, I would recommend La Viuda de Blanco with Itatí Cantoral and Francisco Gattorno. I saw the original from Colombia and it's one of my favorites but Telemundo's version was nicely adapted.
My mom loved Gitanas and I enjoyed the bits I saw. It has Ana de la Reguera, Saúl Lisazo and Dolores Heredia. There's the guy who played Gabriel in En el Nombre del Amor too.
My mom also liked Mas Sabe el Diablo but said it was too extended in the end. This one is with Jencarlos Canela and Gaby Espino.
Tierra de Pasiones is so over the top ridiculous but according to my mother it is also completely addictive. The villain there is so campy and people rediscover their parentage every month in more and more scandalous revelations.
Victoria failed to me because I think TV Azteca's Mirada de Mujer was much better and the actors there were stronger in their roles but I think many would like it if they haven't watch the Angélica Aragón version because I like the story in itself, it's a good one.
I haven't seen Pasión de Gavilanes but I did watch Las Aguas Mansas and it was wonderful. If it's half as good then it must be great.
Jarocha
GinCA
Univision (which shows the Televisa novelas here) has their own. We see the Eva Luna cast there since it's a Univision show: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EnEqKgStwBY
Jarocha
My comment is a little behind, I refer to the letter of apology from JJ to Elsa from yesterday. It wouldn't really matter except that personally I have been hard on JJ, his attitude toward Elsa has bothered me a bit (in an absent-minded novela viewer kind of way!) JJ climbed the esteem ladder a few rungs with his hand written, hand delivered letter of reconciliation to Elsa. He took the lead in getting their friendship back on an even keel and and the icing on the cake......he wanted a personal meeting to discuss things face to face with her. Now the ball is in Elsa's court, she needs to move on, JJ views her as a sister only!
Julieta keeps asking to use the house video equipment for her English lessons, I wonder if she'll stumble on all the tapes of Fausto/Mario and that will be the way she and Gabi find out about their dad and his impersonation!
Gabi needs to ask Leo for a position on the force, she is good at covert listening and is always trying to sniff out the truth!
Jere and Aribeth, thanks for you fabulous, well written and astute recaps, they are my daily night time verbal desserts......and no calories! THANKS.
I like Mauricio Islas as well. Why Matilda went for Manuel when she had Adolfo in Amor Real I'll never know. Adolfo was head and shoulders above Manuel by every measure!!!!
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