Wednesday, April 20, 2016

Pasión y Poder Martes 4/19/16 #128



Chapter 128: Grand Gesture

Some people are incapable of doing anything small. It's not always a bad thing, but it can certainly be awkward in public.  When the whole world is watching there is no margin for error. – D.D.

Arturo and Daniela finished their conversation and he left. Nina caught the tail end of it and seemed relieved that things seemed to be improving. She hugged Daniela whose expression became more pained when she knew her mother couldn't see it. She definitely had been less than honest with her father and with herself.


Eladio was in his psychiatrist's office talking about recent events.
“I'm also worried about Daniela, my son's girlfriend. She left the rehab clinic before being completely detoxed.”
“Why?”
“Because I don't think this is good. She could relapse. That's the least I'm worried about because I went through this with another model in my company. Monserrat fell into these excesses and it ended very badly.” He was not facing the good doctor on that comment. “And I don't want to see the same thing happen to this little girl. Daniela.”
“Are you worried about her or about your son?”
“Yes, but the same for her. I'm worried about everything.”
“Despite that she is Arturo's daughter?”
“Oh, no. Don't misinterpret this. She has no part in my differences with him. Besides I think what he's done to his children is bad enough because now his children are paying for his mistakes.”
The doctor nodded as he looked at Eladio, but was not necessarily agreeing with him.

Erick was in a bar, sharing drinks with a man he should have despised. Peter Ashmore (whose credentials as a WASP would be revoked if the Grenvilles had anything to say about it) was obviously looking to punish the entire Montenegro family for their justified rejections.
“It doesn't matter to me that my father broke his business relationship with you over my sister,” Erick said. “I know I can deal with you, Ashmore.”
Ashmore nodded. “I know you can separate the personal from the professional,” he said. “You're a man with conviction.”
“I knew I found a man who can appreciate my talents. Cheers.” They toasted. Erick drained his tequila shooter. “Now, let's see. The next step is meeting to sign.”
“Yes.”
“My pleasure,” Erick said as they shook hands. He walked away.
“Thank you,” Ashmore said, in English. He raised his glass to the exiting prodigal son and grinned to himself. Then Franco arrived.
“You're looking content, Ashmore,” he said.
“I'm always amused by the stupid ones who think they're so smart,” he said with a grin. “It will be amused to take it all away from them.”
“I know. I understand perfectly what you're talking about, Ashmore.”
“Therefore, are you and I going to do business?”
“Of course. Absolutely.”
It was obvious that neither of the two disloyal sons were playing in the same league as this double-dealing gringo who had years on both their fathers. Ashmore looked back at Franco with a predatory expression. He was determined to avenge himself on both Eladio and Arturo.

Justino and Clara were excited about their wedding the next day. He was almost unable to get his daughter to go to sleep. He was unsure that Eladio would be able to come to the wedding but Clara thought it might be better since she had invited Arturo, who was her boss. An encounter between them could cause problems and they had enough to contend with having Regina and David there. However, they decided to brave the situation since the most important thing was that their marriage would be blessed by the priest. Clara decided that the more money people had, the more problems. They kissed happily, never thinking that a little more money wouldn't have hurt them.

“Now tell me about this deal you're proposing,” Ashmore said.
“I want to have a business outside of my father's,” Franco said. “I'm fed up with living in his shadow.”
“Sounds good. Children have to learn how to succeed on their own.”
“Yes. Therefore I thought you'd be interested.”
“As they say, what's the catch?”
“The point is we ignore friendship. Treat this like a consultancy, like your son-in-law.”
“Sounds good.”
“This is why my father doesn't want to do business with you, but with me it's a different story, Ashmore.”
“Great. Talk to me and we'll see.” He put hs drink down and excused himself to go to the restroom. Franco grinned. “We'll see which one of us enjoys this more, Ashmore,” he said to himself.

The following morning was Saturday, Clara and Justino's wedding day. Miguel and Regina had spent the early hours in the office with Arturo going over Nina's business plan. He was grateful for this. He asked them to be understanding of Daniela and to help her with her problem. Regina and Miguel both promised to. Miguel then asked him an important question.
“Dad, are you still upset with me because I helped Nina?”
Arturo looked sad, then a little upset at the question, but said nothing at first.
“In all sincerity it bothers me that you didn't help me. I hope I'm wrong, but I remind you that Eladio is behind Nina's project.”
“I don't think he has an ulterior motive in this,” Miguel said. “I talked to him.”
“You talked to him? When? In his office? Why did you go to that imbecile?”
“I talked to Eladio to get him to explain what is happening between him and Nina.”
“Yes, and I imagine he was very polite to you,” said Arturo, sarcastically.
“Actually, yes, Dad. The deal was done in peace.”
“Peace? I don't believe it. I know him better than anyone. He did this to interfere with my family. To cause more trouble.”
“Dad,” said Regina, “you're getting very paranoid.”
“Paranoid? No. You are both being naïve.”
He walked out of his office. Regina and Miguel looked at each other, concerned.

Petra was serving breakfast in the garden to Nina and Erick, reminding Nina that this was her day off and she was off to Clara's wedding.
“Yes, of course, but I don't know who will take care of the baby the rest of the day.”
“I thought I would call his mother and do as she asks,” Petra said.
“No way,” said Erick. “I forbid my son to go anywhere with them, Samantha.” In his usual way, he ignored that this was not their housekeeper's name.
“No, no, no,” said Nina. “Samantha, you're right. He has his father for that.” She took her son's hand and looked him in the face. “Since you're not going anywhere you will have the whole day to take care of and enjoy your baby.”
His eyes were so narrow that even Nina's perfect vision couldn't see into them. He dropped his fork.
“Mama?”
“Samantha, you can be calm.” She turned to her son. “And you, love, will take care of our beautiful baby.”
“Thank you,” Petra said. “Excuse me, young sir.” She smiled as she turned her back and quietly giggled to herself as she went inside.
“That was disrespectful,” he said. Nina looked at him but did not verbalize her thought.

Caridad helped Justino get ready for the wedding while Luisita watched. He was wearing a pearl grey suit and a white necktie, the perfect attire for a morning or mid-day ceremony. He picked up his little girl and she told him he was very handsome. It was a pity that Caridad's sense of fashion wasn't up to theirs.

Obdulio checked the pots on the stove and was satisfied with the results of his work all morning. As he closed the stock pot he turned around and Petra entered the kitchen of the servants' hall, dressed for the wedding. Her hair was down in waves and she wore a cranberry-colored ensemble and subtle jewelry.
“Wow! Petra, you are... you are gorgeous!”
She ignored where he continued from there and pushed him aside to get to the stove.
“What are you making?”
“A delicious molita. You'll love it. I'm going to go change. Watch it for me?”
“Yes, yes,” she said. He ran out to change clothes.
Petra looked into the pot, then in the cabinet below. She brought out a plastic bag of salt which probably weighed about a pound and grinned. “Revenge is a dish best served cold,” she said to herself, “And with enough salt, I'll feel better.” She uncovered the stock pot and proceeded to add salt.

Regina and Consuelo helped Clara into her bridal down. She looked pretty enough to be a bridal shop ad with her hair braided with white silk flowers. They complimented her.
“Now the moment has come,” Consuelo said. “You're going to join your life with the man you love. He loves you so much!”
“Thanks for being here with me, Consuelo,” Clara said. “The two of us from an orphange, remember? Still together.”
“How could I not remember?” They hugged, like sisters. Consuelo broke the embrace to wipe away a tear. “No; we can't cry now! Can't let the mascara run.” They laughed. “Everything is perfect!”
“Wait, we have to practice!” Regina said. She moved the others into position to practice the walk. Clara picked up her bouquet and followed. However, they stopped two steps later and laughed, Regina complimenting the flowers.

Humberto was beginning a game of solitaire in the parlor when Franco entered the room.
“Julia has gone out with Gabriela,” he said. “I was hoping to avoid her.”
“And what do you want?” Humberto asked.
“To talk to you about the money I gave you from the sale of the factory.”
“No, I don't need anyone to tell me about how to manage my money,” said the old man.
“Hm, you're right. It's clear that despite that wheelchair you're a genius because everything is going in your favor,” Franco said as he sat down. “Here it's clear to me that it was you who made Julia leave Eladio.”
“You're crazy. How could I do something like that?”
“You don't fool me. The encounter between Julia and Arturo in Las Vegas? That wasn't a coincidence. That was a scheme of yours.”
“No, Franco,” Humberto said, moving toward him. “Your Machiavellian mind invents such things. Where do you get these accusations?”
“I can see it in your face, Grandpa,” Franco said. He rose from the couch and gently pushed the control on the wheelchair so it would go in reverse. “I know you went on that vacation to arrange that meeting.” He picked up the cards from the table.
“Franco, be careful. I will not permit you to talk to me that way.”
“The one who has to be careful here is you,” Franco said, throwing the cards into his hands. “You have deceived everyone. I know perfectly well who you really are. But calm down. Don't worry. It's alright with me. Well, whenever you and I can do business.” He grinned.
Humberto looked up at him and Franco grinned. He sat on the coffee table and gave Humberto a slap on the left arm. The old man could not have forgotten what that meant.

Arturo arrived at the wedding and was greeted by Jorge. Daniela helped straighten David's tie and told him he was handsome.
“You know what?” she said. “We are the best couple in this place.”
“You think?” he said. “Well, let's see.” He turned around to look at the other guests. Arturo turned around and waved at Daniela just as Regina and Consuelo came out to announce that the bride had arrived. She ran up to her father and embraced him. Consuelo kissed him before greeting David and Daniela, whose dress was dark, sleeveless, and fitted like those of Consuelo and Regina, but about five inches shorter. Consuelo told David that the bride was ready and they walked off to get the proceedings under way. Justino arrived and David told him he would fetch the bride. As he turned around he bumped into Arturo and they shook hands a little awkwardly. David then noticed Regina and greeted her. This was even more awkward and that did not go unnoticed. Arturo took a moment to greet and embrace Daniela, who told him she was alright.
Caridad came out to let the guests know that the priest had arrived and all was ready for the ceremony. Justino took his place and Luisita led the way in, tossing flower petals in the path of her new stepmother. From somewhere a radio or a website was set up with speakers so that Pachelbel's much-overplayed Canon in D Major was heard through the area. David escorted Clara to Justino and the couple sat before the priest who greeted the guests and began the mass. He spoke of how “In your house you must always have communication, honesty, and understanding.”
David presented the rings and Justino dropped the coins into Clara's hands. She handed them to Caridad, who watched the rest of the ceremony with a sad expression, as she had not been present for Franco and Gabriela's wedding. Miguel and Consuelo smiled at each other as they put the bridal lazo around the couple. Consuelo exchanged a sisterly smile with Clara as the priest finished the ceremony. The couple kissed to the applause of the guests. Daniela insisted upon kissing David, who complied. Regina saw this out of the corner of her eye and turned to look; it clearly pained her. She had been standing next to her father through the ceremony and grit her teeth for the sake of her own dignity.
Clara went to the makeshift altar with the image of the Virgen and a framed photo of Maribel and votive candles. “Maribel,” she said, “thank you for giving me the blessing to be with Justino and Luisita.” She put down her bouquet and prayed. “I swear before the Virgen of Guadalupe to love and care for them for the rest of my life.”
Luisita put her own bouquet in front of the photo of herself and Maribel, saying “We're so touched by this wedding, Mama.”
The guests toasted the bridal couple, who appeared to be the only ones drinking champagne. Consuelo called the Montenegro mansion to enquire about her son. Nina assured her that all was well. A few minutes later Daniela congratulated Clara and told her she would make the announcement. She ten picked up the microphone.
“Attention, ladies! The bride will now throw the bouquet!”
The music started and the ladies all rose to gather for this. Consuelo stood and Miguel picked out a white flower and told her “You don't have to do that.” She smiled and sat down with him to watch. Clara turned her back to the crowd of unmarried ladies, feinted the first time, and then threw the bouquet that had been carried by Luisita. Regina caught it, but looked a little less than thrilled. David saw that and was further pained at the sight of Jorge coming up to Regina all smiles. Regina turned around and smiled at the caustic flirtation of Obdulio and Petra as he suggested they dance. Jorge asked Regina if something was wrong and she said “No, it's something else.” Miguel took the mike and announced the dancing was to begin. Somehow Petra ended up with the bouquet as Regina tried to dance with Jorge. She could not stop watching David with her sister and David could not stop watching Regina.

“Well, Franco, I'll analyze your plan and think about if I want to do business with you,” said Humberto.
“There's not a lot of time,” Franco said. “It'll be a better opportunity than either Eladio or Arturo can offer. Think about it.” By then he was almost in Humberto's face as Julia and Gabriela came back from shopping. He greeted and kissed Julia, who was surprised to see him there. Gabriela was peeved that he did not meet her at the clinic.
“I was early and decided to stop over where I could do some good,” he said. “It's good you came here; we can go directly.”
“Yes, but it's a bit late and I'm tired.”
“So, let's go,” he said. He smiled and kissed her. She excused herself, Franco said his farewells, and they left. Julia looked at her father and smiled.
“Well, what did you and Franco talk about?”
“Oh, nothing. Family things. What are you doing here? Shouldn't you be at that wedding with Arturo?”
“No. That would be very uncomfortable. I'd be there with him, there is Caridad, Eladio... I'm going to go make dinner.”
“Good. Thanks.” He waited until she left the room. “Thanks. They think I was born yesterday. God took my legs but made me smarter. Thanks, God.”

Petra made sure there were enough plates on the buffet table while Obdulio checked on the food. Arturo came to the table and they gave him a plate of molita. When he tasted it and no compliment was forthcoming Obdulio knew something was wrong.
“Who made this?”
Petra claimed responsibility at first, then said “Obdulio.”. Arturo looked at her and Obdulio, then said the food was delicious. Petra was not happy at this turn, downed a shot of tequila, and walked off with the bottle. The merengue music drowned out her remark from where my assistant was standing. Arturo looked at Obdulio, confused.
Consuelo was enjoying herself as she danced with Miguel, but couldn't stop thinking about her son. She trusted Nina with him, but couldn't stop thinking about Erick's attitude and the not-so-veiled threat that she had still not repeated to anyone.
“My love, what's wrong?” Daniela asked David.
“Nothing. Everything's fine. You want to dance?”
“No. Truth is, I don't like this music. Why don't we go get a drink?”
“Drink?”
“Love, don't look at me like that. I mean water or something like that.”
“Of course,” he said.
“You always think the worst of me,” she said as she led him away. He glanced back at Regina and Jorge before they disappeared from the dance floor as the music began and the other guests began dancing.
Arturo called Julia, who asked how the party was.
“The party is a bit working-class, but the couple is very happy. I hope they like their gift.”
“Yes. How lovely. It's good to know that people can be happy.” She smiled.
“Excuse me, but what are you talking about?”
“No, nothing more.”
Arturo turned around and saw the bride and groom. “I'm with the couple; I'll call you later. I love you.”
“Yes. Call me after. I'll see you.” She ended the call and suddenly looked concerned.
“I'm so glad you could come, sir,” Clara said.
“Thanks for inviting me. Many congratulations. You look lovely. I have a gift for you.”
“You didn't have to bother,” said Justino.
“It's no bother; it's a pleasure.”
Jorge walked up to Justino to talk to him about something. Arturo kissed Clara as though she were his own daughter and she followed her husband. Justino took the microphone and introduced David, asking him to say a few words before the tossing of the garter. Daniela told him he had better not win the garter.
“I don't want to win the garter. What, do you want to get married?”
“No, but some might think it incredible if you caught the garter.”
“No, that won't happen. I want to be with you.” He took the microphone.
“Above all I want to say I'm grateful, happy to be here. I'm not good at this talking in public or giving advice, much less to lovers who just got married. But if I had to give advice the one thing I will say is one must protect love and be brave. One has to be brave to fight and defend it. And believe in it. Before I didn't believe in destiny, I didn't think it was real, but now I know that coincidences don't exist. [ ] But Clara, Justino, you are one of those couples who have the luck to find each other so keep loving each other every day no matter what.”
Everyone applauded, but Regina looked sad. Jorge looked back at her. Arturo looked up as he noticed Regina looking sad as David walked back to the very demonstrative Daniela. However, they were distracted by Eladio, who arrived wearing a leather jacket and his dark glasses. He entered behind Justino, who was in the process of thanking David. David was surprised and Petra was in shock. The happy couple greeted Eladio, who shouted for Callao.
“I just came to present a little wedding gift,” Eladio told the couple. Callao and another man came into the garden with a large rectangular box wrapped in white paper. Luisita lifted the wrapping just enough to see that it was a plasma TV. Everyone applauded. Arturo stood and walked up to the couple and presented a small leather box, which he opened in front of them. It contained a key.
“It's a car.”
Everyone applauded including Eladio, whose sentiment was not the same as he rest of the guests.
“Bravo, Arturo. Even in this you have to compete. I can't believe it.”
“Eladio, I'm sorry, I didn't see you,” Arturo said, then approached him. He moved to shake his hand, but pulled him into the Mafia embrace of death. No one could hear what they said to each other. Their children stared in some disbelief.
“It's the best gift I could make.”
“That's so ordinary. Is this how you want to compete?” Eladio said.
David sensed trouble.
“I don't want our fathers to make a scene, competing over a wedding gift,” said Daniela.
“This competition existed before we were born,” David said. He approached the two men and distracted his father before this could continue. Regina did the same.
“I never knew people competed over a better wedding present. How great!” said Luisita. Caridad kissed her, probably to shut her up.

Gabriela and Franco went home and began arguing. She was angry with him over the appointment and angrily pointed out that the timing of her hormone injections was important.
“I'm sorry but you're always saying you want me to get along with your grandfather. I thought that was important.”
“Yes, that is important but it shouldn't affect something that directly affects us.”
“At times I don't understand you, Gabriela, really,” he said, doing the circular gesture that usually was an accusation of madness. “I'm desperate.”
“What are you trying to say? You don't want me to keep trying to get pregnant?”
“You're hysterical! Your hormones aren't normal, Gabriela. From the moment we left your aunt's house you've been like this.”
“What do you want when this is about our child?” She was shouting. “Our child, Franco. Our child!”
“That's it. I'm going for a walk so this doesn't get any worse.”
He walked out as Gabriela did a slow burn.

Consuelo was trying to call Nina and got her on the second attempt.
“Ma'am, how is my baby?” she asked.
“My grandson is perfect,” Nina replied. “I don't understand why you are so worried. Erick and I are taking care of him.” Nina turned around to watch her son rocking the cradle.
“Good. If you are watching him I don't have a problem. But please, don't leave him alone with Erick.”
“Don't worry. If anything were to happen to the baby my son would know what to do because he's his father.” She took the phone from her ear. It was unclear whether she or Consuelo ended the call.
“I think he needs a diaper change, Mama,” Erick said.
“And why are you looking at me?” she asked him. “Go and change him.”
“I? I don't have a clue, Mama. I don't know how to do that.”
“Well, learn. There won't always be somebody to help you.”

While the other wedding guests were dancing Regina went inside to fix her makeup. Consuelo knew something was wrong.
“How do you feel?”
“The truth is not well. It's that David and Daniela are here.”
“Neither could he be happy seeing you with Jorge.”
“I don't think it could be very important to him if he's here kissing Daniela all day. But don't worry. You enjoy the party like a survivor. Do I look alright?”
“Beautiful.”
Regina returned to the party. Consuelo looked concerned.

Erick started changing the baby under Nina's supervision but didn't seem to know what to do with the dirty diaper.
“What do I do with this thing?” He held it up. His stupid expression would have been amusing if it weren't scandalous.
“That you have to throw into a special bag for diapers. You could at least remember that.” Sshe started rocking the cradle as her son came back with the baby powder. “Now would it's time for his bath.”
“No, Mama, this is too much. Really. I want to do man-things, like I learned to do. With my friends.”
“You had better not go on like this or I might turn against you.”
“How fast Miguel works putting such ideas in your head.”
“Yes, yes, and if you don't tend to your child I will personally see that he is returned to Consuelo.”
Clara sat in a chair while Justino removed her garter. Verdad, I had really hoped that this absurd custom would die out, but it hasn't. At least it distracted the other guests from David leading his father toward the exit. Daniela went after him to bring him back to the wedding so he could have a chance to catch the garter. She then sat down at her father's table. Eladio made or took a call on his cell and left. Justino threw the garter and Jorge caught it on a jump shot. The others applauded and Jorge went to the Montenegro table to claim Regina. He led her out of the crowd to her confusion, then took the microphone.
“Ladies and gentlemen, as the Padrino said before, there are no coincidences. The garter and the bouquet are the signs.” He knelt down and extended his hand. “I want to ask Regina if she will marry me.”
Most of the guests cheered and began to applaud. Regina looked as though she wanted to run for her life. Petra stopped her and quietly told her to step forward. Reluctantly Regina took the microphone and fanned herself.
“I don't know what to say in public with all these guests. But.... I'm sorry. I can't.” She turned so that her back was to the rest of the guests and looked Jorge in the eyes. “I can't. I'm not ready.” She looked at Clara and Justino. “I'm sorry.” Then she said to Jorge “I didn't expect this.”
Jorge looked embarrassed. He had no words. Neither did David, who heard everything Regina said.

Gabriela had gone to the Foundation after Franco left the apartment. She took one of the children to the doctor and brought him back. Augustin arrived with another box of toys for the children and told her he had more in his car. He had gotten the office to contribute.
“Thank you so much. You don't know what a pleasure it is to see you.”
“Are you hungry?”
“Yes, very.”
“Well, what if I take you to get something to eat?”
Gabriela smiled for probably the first time that day.

Regina turned and faced the others. The entire crowd became silent. Consuelo came forward to hug her before Arturo could. Arturo first looked at David, then sat down with a gesture of disbelief. Daniela got and looked at David.
“My poor sister,” she said. “The truth is she will never have love.”
“I think this wasn't the moment, Jorge,” Miguel said to him. “Give her time. It's not that she doesn't love you; you took her by surprise. Give her time.”
Jorge gritted his teeth for a moment. “Yes, that's what I think,” he finally said. But he didn't sound or look like he believed his own words. Arturo watched the exchange.

Franco had gone to Marintia's apartment where he vented.
“I am fed up with Gabriela,” Franco told Marintia. “With her dramas, her stuff, her trying to have children. I can't take it.”
“Why don't you leave her? How much longer?” she asked, trying to strike a sexy pose. “Now tell me did you find someone to do business with?”
“I think so. And when I've done I'll have all the money from the factory and I'm waiting for a call from Ashmore to do business with him.”
“That sounds good.” She got up from the bed. “You enchant me with this.”
She practiced her most valuable skills on him at that.

As the rest of the guests danced Regina cried in the kitchen. She confessed to Consuelo that she felt terrible.
“Jorge is a beautiful person, he loves me, he treats me incredibly well, but I don't know. What's happening to me, Consuelo?”
“It's easy, Regina. You still love David.”
Regina shook her head.
“David is happy with Daniela. You know that.”
Jorge came in.
“Can we talk?”
“I'll leave you alone.” Consuelo went out.

Outside Obdulio was preparing snacks, David was getting himself some pomegranate juice. Miguel approached him.
“David about what happened with Regina –”
“Really, I'd prefer not to talk about this,” David said.
“Are you alright?”
“No, I'm not. She didn't accept Jorge's proposal because she still loves me.”
“And you?”
David did not answer. He also didn't see that Daniela was watching.

Jorge apologized for his rash action.
“Regina, you know that I love you, I adore you, and nothing would please me more than to marry you. I understand that if you don't feel the same, it's alright.”
“I love you [quiero] very much. You're so sweet with me and –”
“Don't say any more.”
“As you said well, this all took me by surprise. But only give me time to assimilate this and think about it.”
“I'll wait my whole life.”



Labels:


Permalink posted by Urban Anthropologist @ 1:48 AM
Comments:
I can't believe I have only one more article for this series. It feels weird. I don't feel like there's been any progress since last week except with the dreaded Assmore. May his Karmageddon be severe.
Permalink posted by Blogger Urban Anthropologist : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 1:51:00 AM EDT
 

Thank you, Urban. Great job, as always. And thank you for your work throughout the duration of this TN.

Yes, despite the wedding, this really felt like a filler episode rather than an "ultimos capitulos" but, oh well!

I thought Arturo was tacky when he jumped up to "out-gift" Eladio. He's (Arturo) a real jerk. And to make that remark to Julia about it being a "working class" wedding ... what a colossal snob!

Just when I thought no one could outdo him in his jerkiness, here comes clueless Jorge, who not only proved his lack of class in blindsiding Regina with that idiotic public proposal, but to do it DURING A WEDDING!! He surpassed Arturo on the tacky meter. Sheesh!

I did enjoy that little boy playing with the ball during the ceremony itself. It looked like the producers didn't get the message to all the residents of that little area and there was a stray little boy that crashed the wedding - hilarious!

Nick
Permalink posted by Anonymous Anonymous : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 4:31:00 AM EDT
 

Thank you, UA. Did Art start out this novrla as the good guy? If so, what happened in the writers' room? Oh well, I am ready for anvils now. Bring it.

Permalink posted by Anonymous Susanlynn♥ : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 5:56:00 AM EDT
 

I think there was more going on with the out-gifting and it could have been worse. However, Jorge definitely stole both of their thunder with the surprise marriage proposal. That is beyond tacky (at a wedding) and truly clueless. Doesn't he check out the internet? There are loads of stories of public proposals gone wrong.

Regina should have just told him it wouldn't work. She already knows this in her soul but has fallen into the Nice Girl trap of not wanting to hurt anyone's feelings. He looked like he knew but didn't want to know.

As to my description of the wedding as working-class, I'm not sure I translated it correctly. Arturo really isn't a snob or he wouldn't have approved of Regina dating Jorge, who is the son of their former gardener. She is still his Golden Child despite their differences over David.

Arturo has been a victim of the writers who have downgraded him as they tried to rehab Eladio. I will actually be relieved at the end of this series despite that it has a great cast who are playing the best game with the cards the writers dealt them.

There are only 9 hours left and it is really bugging me that there is no update to the Official Secrets List. I will therefore withhold it until there is a change. I hope there's one tonight at least. There are things I don't think we will ever know now but there are too many important things still on it.
Permalink posted by Blogger Urban Anthropologist : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 6:40:00 AM EDT
 

Thank you UA you always bring it!

How did Jorge miss all the over the shoulder glances from Regina and David?

I'm giving Jorge a pass. He's an old fashion guy, Regina wanted to bed him so why not put a ring on it.

I liked the green dress Gabi had on and if I was 35 years younger would wear it.

I don't understand why half of the people were at the wedding in the first place
Permalink posted by Blogger tofie : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 6:47:00 AM EDT
 

This comment has been removed by the author.
Permalink posted by Blogger Urban Anthropologist : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 7:19:00 AM EDT
 

Because people love weddings? Because of the free food (which in this case should have been great)? Believe it or not I have attended so few of them in my own life that I could count them on my hands.

I like the style of Regina's dress but would have liked a different color in the insets (I hate pink). Clara was a beautiful bride although I think the hair and makeup department should have attended to her roots before this episode was shot.

Jorge missed what he didn't want to see.

Kudos to both Regina and David for preventing an even uglier scene between their fathers. Since some of those guests looked like they were from the couple's workplaces that could have been very embarrassing.

As I typed that I realized that the gifting one-up-manship will be part of the distraction that prevents both of them from seeing what Assmore seems to be planning. What is also interesting is that Assmore will become the smarter, more upscale version of Pedro in how he is manipulating both Erick and Franco.

Correction of deleted post.
Permalink posted by Blogger Urban Anthropologist : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 7:22:00 AM EDT
 

UA, you concocted a delicious recap despite the absence of several crucial ingredients last night. There wasn't much progress yet your summary sizzled.

"Ashmore looked back at Franco with a predatory expression. He was determined to avenge himself on both Eladio and Arturo" was but one of my favorite, well written lines.

“The party is a bit working-class, but the couple is very happy. I was a bit surprised at this because Arturo has many faults but I didn't think snobbery was one of them. Thank you for explaining this.

One of my favorite moments was Erick changing his son’s diaper. His "thinly veiled threat", as Consuelo captured it made me afraid again.

Die Erick Die. Please Dani, Don't Die...

The wedding was a strange venue for the Arturo/Eladio power play. Indeed, Arturo is descending downhill overall at a rapid pace, in every facet of his life. He has alienated his children, clearly not won over Julia and in fact has pushed away his staunchest ally, Nina. He has angered Ashmore to which I would ordinarily cheer but I am afraid of the price that will be exacted.

Regina slept with Jorge and unfortunately, that went to his head. I think he got swept up in the moment and was relieved that Regina wasn't and that she refused sweetly yet firmly.

It appears we won't find out more about Consuelo's background and I for one am relieved this storyline was not delved into further.

Gabi and Augustin really seem to be sparking some serious chemistry.

Franco has his hands in too many fires and is sure to get burned. Ditto for Humberto. Props to Franco for figuring out Humberto's game.

So David finally realizes Regina still loves him. So, what if anything will he do about it?

Thanks again UA!

Diana
Permalink posted by Anonymous Anonymous : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 7:49:00 AM EDT
 

Thank You Urban, It has been quite a ride hasn't it? WOW only one more. Boo Hoo
The Hamster still mourns her 358 bad decidions with David and her tenacity?

Oh Well, we tried to warn you. Somebody put some fresh cedar shavings in her box.

I
JUST
DO
NOT
CARE

Crist, give her some of Dani's coke or something. Next !
Permalink posted by Anonymous Kirbo : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 7:50:00 AM EDT
 

Speaking of little Consuelo: What a cute little thing. Miguel must not be big either, or she has a little stool to stand on. I just noticed last night she has a large cell phone, looks to be a Samsung S5 or a Note 4 or 5. It is so large compared to her little face it looks like she is talking on a laptop. What a little cutie pie. I mean I know she is a grownup, but still.
Permalink posted by Anonymous Kirbo : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 7:56:00 AM EDT
 

Arturo isn't a snob despite his other flaws. He married Nina knowing she came from a poor family, he accepted Consuelo despite what was found out about her background, and he accepted Jorge as a suitor for Regina. He came to Clara's wedding.

I'd like to see the car, but I don't think we will. Maybe someone here knows what kind it would be if there is a specific one that boxes the key in what otherwise looks like it would hold an expensive watch. Maybe all auto manufacturers or dealerships do this now knowing that cars are popular gifts for middle- and upper-class parents to give for birthdays and graduations. BTW, what happened to Franco's yellow car (and what was it, again)?

After what happened with YNCELH I'm getting concerned at the number of loose ends we could potentially have with this series. I've given up hope that we will ever find out anything else about Nina's family of origin or who Clara's parents were. I'm going to go through the secrets list to try to figure out what the writers will drop. I'll repost the list later this week if there is any change and we can all guess at what the writers will pass over. I don't like this trend at all.
Permalink posted by Blogger Urban Anthropologist : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 8:07:00 AM EDT
 

You know, Urban, maybe I am being a little selfish, but I feel like I have earned a bit more than what we have been given.

I have arranged my busy schedule night after flipping night to faithfully watch this train wreck for months. I have sat through what seems like thousands of commercials.
I have participated in this blog, for better or for worse.

There undeniably is not as much effort on my part as on the writers, but still I feel they owe us more than they will be able to shoehorn in in these last few hours.

They start all thes plotlines, stories, secrets for what? To simply drag us to the next commercial break?

I feel like Jorge, for my undying committment I feel a little shortchanged.

OTOH, I thought it was common courtesy to not outsexy the bride even if you could.

Permalink posted by Anonymous Kirbo : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 8:25:00 AM EDT
 

Really enjoyed your recap UA. Thanks so much.

So again, another night of maneuvering, another night of only minor happenings. Hello, writers....ultimates!

How many times has Gina told Jorge she isn't ready for marriage?? Pulling that, and in front of everyone, was purposefully putting her on the spot. Forcing her to what he wanted. This was in direct correlation to the dude at the start of this that pulled the same crud at her award ceremony. (Sorry, forgot his name). For the writers I think this was the fast way to say that he's not end game either.

Reading that psyche office meeting with Eladio sort of made my blood boil. Part of what happened with the Amazon was that at that time of her life her realtionship was abusive with Eladio. Sure, some of that was on her for her greed and playing both men, but I didn't pick up any "I caused part of her problem". I still need him to take more ownership of his past behavior and abuse of people.

As for Artie-- such a JERK. His kids are getting embarrassed by him. He's so self-involved, he was willing to pull something at someone's wedding with no regard for how it would affect them. And that comment to Julia...yeah, I hope if he survives he is cleaning floors for a living and everyone has turned on him.

Too much foreboding about Erick and the baby in this one. Don't like it. He can die, just don't hurt that child. Hate when children are used in finales as some sort of pawn or put in danger. Boo hiss!

Daisynjay
Permalink posted by Anonymous Anonymous : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 8:55:00 AM EDT
 

Amazing recap Urban! Can't believe you have only one more left either!! Instead of anvils and secrets being exposed, they are starting up with new secrets like what are Erick and Franco up to with Ashmore?

So how hot did FC look in that black leather jacket? Me and Petra were feeling the heat!! With his gelled hair and sunglasses he looked like he stepped off of the set of Grease.

Art is the one that made the wedding gift a competition. Jumping up and looking at Eladio when he presented the key to the car.

Regina should have told Jorge the truth. It was the perfect opportunity for her to say "I'm sorry I just don't love you like you love me." But instead she keeps him dangling. Unfair to the poor guy.

And where was Dani? How many times has her sister been there for her and she sees what Reg is going through and doesn't make a move to help or even check on her when she ran out. I understand David complicates things but this is your sister! Connie is more of a sister to Reg than Dani.

The wedding looked like it was in an alleyway between two buildings. I was surprised it wasn't in a church. Kinda strange.

With no anvils to speak of I'm losing hope that this will have a satisfying ending. Why am I never happy at the end of the "dramas"? I have yet to see one that I've felt good about the ending. Granted I haven't seen many but at this point I'm starting to get pissed off.
Permalink posted by Blogger Carvivlie : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 9:30:00 AM EDT
 

Carvivlie I suspect that Dani has not changed much. She is like a cat. You can teach it to not get caught, not to actually stop getting on the kitchen counters.

I think Dani is playing all the staight people's game pretending to be on the road to recovery, love my Daddy and sister, etc. but the real Daniela is inside waiting to come back to the surface.

Farturo Turdenegro. Nuff said
Permalink posted by Anonymous Kirbo : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 9:46:00 AM EDT
 

Daisynjay, thanks for the reminder about Joshua.

We were never told whether Regina ever boinked him, but from my present perspective his actions were so much worse because she had already cancelled the wedding, was dating David, and he crashed a professional awards ceremony. He was either totally clueless or deliberately setting out to embarrass her. If she had done what Nina wanted her to do at the time she would have been up the creek without a paddle. Jorge looked like a gentleman in comparison but he may have to face embarrassment at work over this.

I don't think Julia is greedy or that she ever was. She was abused by Humberto to whom her only value was the net worth of whomever she would marry. She was emotionally immature and married Eladio out of spite. She has more than paid for that and so has David. Eladio hasn't and his bill is coming due.

Both Eladio and Arturo have become desperate, which isn't good for either of them.

As to Arturo alienating his children, that's on them and their choices. Many adult children resent their parents' divorces and their future partners (if any), but this isn't about them. This would be more understandable if they were younger, but two of Arturo's children are adults who have lived away from home while the other two are emotionally immature and one has a substance addiction problem. What should have worried them is the possibility of business repercussions.

Eladio did look like something out of Grease in that leather jacket without lapels.

Assmore made threats several times before now, so it's his turn to take a swipe at our battling patriarchs. The nature of his sins, though, will guarantee that he will suffer big time. What I am hoping is that Erick and Franco will both realize that they have been played by the same two sleazebags before their own Karmageddons take place.

That Erick would even contemplate doing business with him says exactly how much he really cares about Daniela. If he dies I hope Nina finds this out beforehand so she can curse him. I'm still of the opinion that he should end up in prison, disowned by his entire family.
Permalink posted by Blogger Urban Anthropologist : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 9:58:00 AM EDT
 

The show is placing too much weight on David and Regina reconciling and I flat don't care. I feel letdown coming on.




Permalink posted by Blogger tofie : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 9:58:00 AM EDT
 

Carvivle...ooh..Can you see me raising my hand? I know. I know. How hot is FC in that black leather jacket as he channels Danny Zucco? ..verra, verra hot." I got chills ; they're multiplying , and I'm losing control...you're the one that I love...la la la la ..etc" Totally devoted to you, dude.
Permalink posted by Anonymous Susanlynn♥ : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 10:02:00 AM EDT
 

ITA Tofie. I would much rather spend time seeing Franco, Erick and Hummy get multiple anvils, every single day, up to the finale. Also, Art getting an anvil for his "buying" and manipulation of Julia. He'll get another anvil with Erick's betrayal and what could possibly happen to Dani. Eladio lost Julia so he got an anvil already. Plus I think Franco's betrayal will hurt him deeply so that's an anvil coming. He may still get another from Julia and Gaby if/when they find out he knew about Mari and the baby.
Permalink posted by Blogger Carvivlie : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 10:06:00 AM EDT
 

Thank you Urban. A wonderfully written and detailed recap of last nights events. I always appreciate all the dialogue translations you add.

The wedding and reception actually turned out to be a nice one. There wasn't that much that happened that moved things along but I thought this turned out to be a nice episode.

It should be interesting to see what happens with Franco and Erick now that they both want to do business with Assmore. Also, it will be interesting to what happens with Hummy and if he'll end up being forced to do business Franco and end up losing it all.

Arturo was at his worst last night competing with Eladio over who is giving the better gift. That looked like a nice HDTV set that Eladio got the newlyweds. Now if only we could see the car to see which gift was better.

As for Jorge, that certainly was rude of him to make the wedding proposal at someone else's wedding. Not cool. You just don't do that.
Permalink posted by Blogger Mauricio : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 10:07:00 AM EDT
 

LOL Susanlynn, if Julia was to have seen him I'm sure she would have run straight into his arms. He was magnetic! Couldn't take my eyes off him!!
Permalink posted by Blogger Carvivlie : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 10:07:00 AM EDT
 

Mauricio, Eladio's gift seemed more inline with what someone of his means would give a couple he hardly knows. Art's was so over the top. I guess we are suppose to see how generous he is. I am having such a hard time giving Art credit for the good things he does. Oh well.
Permalink posted by Blogger Carvivlie : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 10:10:00 AM EDT
 

Eladio did look good in that leather jacket and those shades. He sure knows how to make an entrance. I'm disappointed that we didn't get to hear what Eladio and Arturo whispered to each other as they embraced.

It was actually quite comical as Erick was forced to change a dirty diaper. Then watching him holding it up and not knowing what to do with it. I loved how Nina sarcastically told him that he could keep it as a souvenir if he wants.
Permalink posted by Blogger Mauricio : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 10:16:00 AM EDT
 

I definitely think that Humberto will lose his ill-gotten gains before he meets his maker and before Arturo gives him anything. Taking money stolen from Gabriela was about the lowest he has fallen.

Arturo's motive for that gift is about more than Eladio; it's about himself. He has a generous nature and no present outlet for it. Julia doesn't want him to support her financially and three out of his four children don't need him to. That is a difficult life stage at his time of life. Clara is Regina and Consuelo's friend and has no family. She's also a nice person who looks out for her friends. He was treating her like he treats Consuelo, like a daughter. A little weird since he is also her boss but there are loads of boundary issues through all the characters.

And it was rude of Jorge to make a public proposal at someone else's wedding. I thought he had better manners.
Permalink posted by Blogger Urban Anthropologist : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 10:29:00 AM EDT
 

The car was a generous gift. The problem was trying to compete with Eladio over who had the better gift. It made Arturo look bad. Of course, Jorge's proposal was worse. I also thought he had better manners than that.
Permalink posted by Blogger Mauricio : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 10:37:00 AM EDT
 

I give Jorge a pass. I think he saw both he and Reg catching the garter and bouquet as some sort of sign and then got caught up with all of the emotion... and he went for it. I feel sorry for him. Deep down he knows the truth which is why he keeps pushing. I wish Reg would be brutal with him so that the spell is broken and he can move on.
Permalink posted by Blogger Carvivlie : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 10:39:00 AM EDT
 

So...let's all try to guess what Eladio and Arturo whispered.
Permalink posted by Anonymous Susanlynn♥ : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 10:39:00 AM EDT
 

What Arturo and Eladio whispered to each other (my guess):

Arturo: Anything you can do, I can do better. I can do anything better than you.
Eladio: No, you can't.
Arturo: Yes, I can.
Eladio: No, you can't.
Arturo: YES, I CAN. YES, I CAN.
Permalink posted by Blogger Mauricio : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 10:45:00 AM EDT
 

Eladio: You're so pale, here I have some bronzer in my pocket
Art: No worries, my whiteness brings out the smokiness of my dark eyes
Permalink posted by Blogger Carvivlie : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 10:48:00 AM EDT
 

Mauricio..good guess ! I am still thinking about my guess. The possibilities are endless.
Permalink posted by Anonymous Susanlynn♥ : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 10:48:00 AM EDT
 

Maybe Eladio whispered "My future's so bright, I gotta wear shades. Yours..not so much."
Permalink posted by Anonymous Susanlynn♥ : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 10:50:00 AM EDT
 

Great guesses, Carvivlie and Susanlynn! It's a shame we'll never find out what was really said. But it's fun guessing. :)

Permalink posted by Blogger Mauricio : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 11:00:00 AM EDT
 

Hmmm...maybe Eladio whispered what my hubby always told me when he was playing baseball ..."You win some; you lose some, but you've got to get dressed for all of them.".
Art: "Como sea."
Permalink posted by Anonymous Susanlynn♥ : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 11:10:00 AM EDT
 

Thank you for churning out an excellent recap for such a bland episode, entirely dedicated to the wedding of two irrelevant extras.

Oh, Arturo is a bloody snob, alright! The way he paused before calling the wedding "popular" and his general demeanor (he looked ready to break out the anti-bacterial wipes) are all the indications I need. Older indications of his snobbery were revealed in the prenup conversation with Regina and in his treatment of Eladio when he worked for his family. We didn't see the things Eladio recounted but we did see the way Arturo bellowed "¡[Eladio] Me robó el cariño de mi padre!" ("He stole my father's affection!") as well as his unease during their short alliance against Ashmore, when Eladio told him that he knew the "real" Arturo very well and asked him a cryptic "Do you remember?", after which Arturo invited him to leave "or else their truce will end before it had even started."

Back to the irrelevant boda of the irrelevant people. It bore me to distraction! Regina and David were ruined for many viewers, including myself. I simply don't care about them one way or another. Adding Jorge and Dani to the mix just multiplies my indifference by two! Things only got interesting when Eladio (and Callao) showed up. The dude knows how to make an entrance! If I ever get married, I'm inviting Arturo and Eladio to my boda, to spice up the activity! In that very unlikely fictitious scenario, it is very likely that'd run away with Eladio, the sexy leather-lad beast.

Speaking of runaway brides, the only way, in my opinion that could have saved this wedding is if Tabasco-exiled Francisco showed up and Clarita took off with him. Flippin' writers with no imagination! I dislike this bland irrelevant WTF couple so much, I hope Maribel haunt the ever-loving crap outta them. If my best friend and my husband marry after I die, those motherfellas will get haunted relentlessly!

As for my guess as to what the two rivals whispered in each others' ears, I have two scenarios in mind:

1) "Stop being so obsessed with me! I'm not sleeping with you! Never gonna happen!"

2) "Good job giving your car to the irrelevantes, you numpty! Hope you have an alternative mode of transport 'cause I am NOT giving you a ride!

Thanks again, UA!

Have a great day, everyone!
Permalink posted by Blogger Nandicta : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 11:15:00 AM EDT
 

*I'd run away with Eladio, the sexy leather-clad beast! (the more I repeat it, the better this sounds!) Sorry for the typos.

And LoriLoo, I replied to your comment last night about Harold and told you that I had a crush on a German guy named Harold, 2-feet tall. I meant 2 meters tall, which converts to 6-feet something. I should stick to the metric system, especially when I'm fallin asleep over my keyboard!

Good day to all and cheers for popping in yesterday and leaving such great comments! :)
Permalink posted by Blogger Nandicta : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 11:22:00 AM EDT
 

Nandicta...I always remind my students that Americans have never embraced that metric system..nope..they just will not give up their feet and inches.
Permalink posted by Anonymous Susanlynn♥ : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 11:33:00 AM EDT
 

Nandicta..Your title for the "Sueno" recap was intriguing !
Permalink posted by Anonymous Susanlynn♥ : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 11:41:00 AM EDT
 

I can read lips.
Arturo: Pull her hair, a wild ride.
Eladio: I know
Permalink posted by Anonymous Kirbo : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 11:46:00 AM EDT
 

Nandicta, weren't you the one who said that Francisco was deleted from the story because the viewers didn't like him?

If Arturo's father played Eladio off against Arturo as described, that could mean that Eladio and Arturo are the Cain and Abel of the previous generation (which would be a cop-out reveal this late in the day). Each one of them has one "good" son and one evil one and if I were writing this I'd have Miguel, David, and the girls think twice about having children of their own.

Two of the writers of this series also worked on Mundo de Fieras where we had a good twin and an evil one who were raised apart and ended up being business and romantic rivals. The evil one married the first love of the good one, but I don't remember why that happened. Their son fell in love with the adopted daughter of the good twin and her stepsister tried stealing him by telling him that she was his first cousin.
Permalink posted by Blogger Urban Anthropologist : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 12:13:00 PM EDT
 

Mundo de Fieras was a wild ride. Wasn't Edith Gonzales the bad girl ? Is she still acting?
Permalink posted by Anonymous Susanlynn♥ : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 12:25:00 PM EDT
 

God Bless you UA for the recap. EXCELLENT!

Anon: Arturo's buji-ism is showing & it's getting disturbing. The comment he said about "working class wedding" PISSED ME OFF! What a Snob!

He reminds me of Don Gil from "Por Siempre Mi Amor", who's hostile towards Mari was disgusting.

Nandicta: I enjoyed the wedding of Justino & Clara. At least they got an awesome HTV gift from Eladio, Callao, etc.,

Did you notice that Petra got offended when Arturo made snide remarks about the food ?

Kirby: Daniela's hostility is going to resurface, but it won't last long because you & I know that Ashmore is ready to strike when she doesn't see it coming!

You notice that Alejandro Nones' English was pitch perfect when he was talking to Ashmore ?

UA: The Cain & Abel generation is very disturbing indeed.

Susanlynn: Old Goat Humberto going to end up BROKE. Only a matter of time!

Permalink posted by Blogger Steve Boudreaux : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 12:29:00 PM EDT
 

-- Susanlynn: That's one of life's unresolved mysteries. The metric system is so easy, just add or substract a zero and voilà! I left you a little critique of the upcoming Yago in a late comment last night. Hope it helps lure you into the next patio! As for SdA, I really really wish I were making that stuff up but everything mentioned in that title happened in the episode! SdA is my Karmaggedon for tuning into a novela solely to ogle the beefcake! Still, we do have oodles of fun in our little SdA patio! ;)

-- UA: Francisco ousted because viewers disliked him? It wasn't me who shared that information on our patio. It might be true, I'm not sure. In my personal experience, talking to my novelero friends in Mexico and seeing PyP social media reactions, a lot of viewers were puzzled by Francisco's departure and preferred his pairing with Clarita. The actor was very popular after his turn in Amores con Trampa. Here are the rumors I heard, the actor may have gotten a bit too chummy with the producer's squeeze and El Güero wasn't ready to use yet another one of the startlets he groomed to yet another Argentine, like it happened during the filming of Teresa.

As for Mundo de Fieras, I didn't know they shared writers with PyP. My understanding is that the story was a remake of a TN of the same name from Venezuela with elements of the original 1988 PyP thrown in for good measure. Mejía loves doing weird story mixes that make for the best unintentional comedies.
Permalink posted by Blogger Nandicta : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 12:30:00 PM EDT
 

-- Steve: Glad you enjoyed the wedding. Personally, I think if a secondary character deserved a drawn-out boda, it was Petra! :)
Permalink posted by Blogger Nandicta : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 12:32:00 PM EDT
 

I have to emphasize that I may have misinterpreted Arturo's comment about the party. And working-class (if that is what it meant) doesn't mean serfs.

Edith Gonzales was a villana in MdF for the first time. She gave a truly outstanding performance and I think she got the Villain trophy that year. Most of you probably remember her Mujeres Asesinas episode, which was (I think) the best in the series.

Nandicta, that doesn't surprise me. Behind the scenes stuff can certainly ruin a good series or movie.

There certainly was nothing funny about Mundo de Fieras. Miriam, Joselyn, and Karen were quite a trio of sick nasties and Damien was also one perverse dude.

As for the endangerment of children, I'm surprised that this was a rarity for so long. No actual children are hurt on the set and what could possibly vilify a character more?
Permalink posted by Blogger Urban Anthropologist : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 12:47:00 PM EDT
 

UA..The Soup loved to show scenes from Mundo . I remember one of the BSC twin banging his head against the staircase railing.

Nandicta..I have trouble converting Celsius to Farhenheit whenever I am in Toronto. And...I will give Yago a look since it is on before my ten o'clock bedtime.
Permalink posted by Anonymous Susanlynn♥ : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 1:04:00 PM EDT
 

A friend who moved to Canada about two years ago still hasn't adjusted to metric. I'm getting more used to it since becoming a perfume addict because that industry primarily measures in metric units.
Permalink posted by Blogger Urban Anthropologist : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 1:09:00 PM EDT
 

Susanlynn, to answer your question about Edith Gonzales, yes she was the bad girl in Mundo. Edith is still acting. She hasn't done anything for Televisa recently but she is currently the leading lady on Eva La Trailera on Telemundo.
Permalink posted by Blogger Mauricio : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 1:25:00 PM EDT
 

Thanks for that info, Mauricio. Edith was a fierce Villanova in Mundo, but she was beyond fierce in Dona Barbara. I also remember her as a judge on Bailando a few years ago.
Permalink posted by Anonymous ♥Susanlynn : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 1:54:00 PM EDT
 

Thank you, Urban! I liked this episode very much and I particularly enjoyed the way you recreated it with the careful rendering of dialogue and pointed descriptions. Excellent!

I think these parties/group occasions are a wonderful chance to see the characters interacting with each other. So much of a telenovela consists of tightly shot two-person scenes and giant, zit-baring close-ups. It's a relief to pull the camera back and watch all the reaction shots: A is watching B while C watches A and X is keeping an eye on all of them... And I liked that the party took place outside in the vecindad while people ate mole and sipped on agua de jamaica. I was also glad that the actress who plays Petra had a chance to look attractive. (Oh my, the lot of the comical character actor whose styling must always enhance his or her risible physical traits. A person has to have a strong sense of self to make a living like that.)

I had to giggle when Eladio showed up in his leather jacket (he's the only one who dressed DOWN for a wedding, or at least for this one.) and again at the Eladio/Arturo "Mafia embrace." It was a good reminder of how low the stakes really are around here.

Hi Susanlynn! Check out Edith Gonzales in Doña Barbara, if you ever get the chance. Her performance is amazing (and so is the novela).
Permalink posted by Blogger NovelaMaven : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 2:06:00 PM EDT
 

Aha, so you did see Doña Barbara! :-)
Permalink posted by Blogger NovelaMaven : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 2:07:00 PM EDT
 

Gracias, NovelaMaven. I did watch Doña Barbara and I am shocked to the core at the idea of Telemundo remaking it with Aracely Arambula. That is an insult to Edith's performance and to the viewers. They must have a clone of Mejia on their executive team.
Permalink posted by Blogger Urban Anthropologist : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 2:17:00 PM EDT
 

About remaking Doña Barbara
I didn't know they were planning this and it's hard to imagine any new version that could compete with the existing one. As for the choice of protagonista, I have to say that Aracely Arambula has turned in some remarkable performances in the past couple of years, especially in Telemundo's Los Miserables. Some actresses really do get better.
Permalink posted by Blogger NovelaMaven : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 2:27:00 PM EDT
 

Thanks, Urban. Another great D.D. opening and spell-binding recap. News bulletins on the New York voting broke in several times here, so the episode played choppy last night.

Eladio wearing a leather jacket to the wedding was an interesting choice for a CEO. I guess that was the equivalent of letting his hair down.

Lucky Clara and Justino to have two titans of industry competing to give them the best gift. They should be sure to invite these two to the baby shower when the time comes – for more dueling gifts.

I don’t think Arturo is high on the snob scale, which is pretty good considering his upbringing. As others have said, the fact he readily accepts hard-working Jorge shows social class isn’t “that” important to him. Plus, he’s always been supportive of Consuelo and called Petra by her own name. I know everybody hates Arturo and I’m not at his table on the patio either, but I still see him as a nice guy who’s having a very bad midlife crisis and acting the fool. It was funny that even Luisita could see Arturo was competing with Eladio.

Finally, after a long dry spell, something truly funny happens: Petra’s “I’m all that” voguing when Obulio was gushing over her.

On the fashions, I thought Caridad look great in the white and yellow embroidered dress. Clara was lovely with her hair up. But the bridesmaids’ dark solid color (navy?) dresses weren't good choices for an afternoon outdoor summer wedding -- they competed with the flowers and greenery, and they lost.

Poor Jorge. I’ll forgive him this gaffe, as he’s suffered enough public embarrassment. Nice of Miguel to say a few consoling words to make him not feel like an idiot.
Permalink posted by Blogger Niecie in MD : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 2:49:00 PM EDT
 

I haven't watched this episode, but I'm not sure that I need to Urban A. I saw it all in your writing. Thanks.

Jorge (yeah he's infatuated with Regina) is so stupid. How do you think proposing to a woman that you know still loves another - he knows this - in a crowd at someone else's wedding.

Regina - "I'm going to give you some tonight Jorge"
Jorge - "jackpot"
Jorge - "in front of all of these folks, will you marry me"
Regina - "no stupid, what's wrong with you"
Jorge - "but we did it!"
Regina - "that was pity sex, I pity you fool"
Jorge - "ok, I'm going to wait forever for you to marry me...even if you marry David, Julio, Pedro, and anyone else...I'll stay stupid until the end of time"

How has no one died since Mont-the-rat? Really?

Permalink posted by Blogger Kendra : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 3:05:00 PM EDT
 

UA...I don't think you did the character of Arturo a disservice by translating "boda popular" as working class wedding. It was a down home, casual wedding in the bride and groom's down home barrio streets. Looked like it could have been a lot of fun, with delicious traditional Mexican food etc. but certainly not the elegant type of wedding that someone born to money, as Arturo was, would be used to. (although his own wedding was evidently a rushed, no nonsense affair, right?)

In the episode, he seemed to be enjoying himself, before Eladio showed up, and while his remark may have seemed a bit patronizing, to me it did not seem to be unkind, just descriptive. And I'm not an Arturo fan, no I have no other reason to defend him. But...opinions may differ, as Carlos says.

As always, I loved your opening photo, and DD prologue and am in awe of the amount of work you put in meticulously translating the dialogue. You could be a closed caption writer with your skills.

Susanlynn..great challenge as to what Eladio and Arturo said to each other. You've always got the songs, lady, and if Mads were still around, she'd add some more. As for me, I'll guess that they were doing a little jousting about the size of their appendages, just like some of our politicos do. And for that reason, I'm glad we didn't have to hear it!
Permalink posted by Blogger JudyB : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 3:06:00 PM EDT
 

"Poor Jorge. I’ll forgive him this gaffe, as he’s suffered enough public embarrassment. Nice of Miguel to say a few consoling words to make him not feel like an idiot".

Well said (as always) Niecie.

But I think you captured how I feel about Art perfectly "I know everybody hates Arturo and I’m not at his table on the patio either, but I still see him as a nice guy who’s having a very bad midlife crisis and acting the fool".

I would like to see him pull back and snap out of it before this is over.

With what's happened between Nina and Miguel, I think anything is possible.

Diana
Permalink posted by Anonymous Anonymous : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 3:07:00 PM EDT
 

"How has no one died since Mont-the-rat? Really?"

I know Kendra, right? Not that we want a constant body count upping through the show, but this started being sold so dark and full of villains and then we got nothing or those same people getting softened. In fact, really the "villains" are a little milquetoast compared to some TN's we've seen. Lot of bluster, not a lot of action; a lot of threats, but they mess things up when they try. In fact the hired hands are smarter than Franco or Erick who really are very inept villains as TN requirements go. Now, if on the very last day, they both suddenly go postal and start taking people out, and as a result, themselves, I guess that will be our big "evil" moment.Maybe that was the intent after all, more a analysis of evil and the human psyche than a usual showing of destruction, murder,swindles, beatings, etc. Not sure I would call it successful as there are too many "dangling chads" for my satisfaction. I can't see how we will get true resolution or ownership by some of the characters.

Daisynjay
Permalink posted by Anonymous Anonymous : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 3:28:00 PM EDT
 

Novelamaven...Yes, Edith was a verra strong woman in that one. Christian Meyer cowered in her presence even while lusting after her daughter. She avenged all the hombres who used and abused her. Girlpower.

Niecie...My daughter wore Navy in one of her sorority sister's wedding. I guess nine of the bridesmaid liked it or figured tgatvtgryveould never wear the dresses again, so at the reception, they all jumped into the pool including the bride. I like Navy


Judyb..Yes, they might have been comparing their assets , but Knowing how these two hombres treat the lovely Julia like a prize to be fought over and won, I think that the whispered conversation might have been ...

Art: " I had her first..ha.".

Eladio : " But I had her last..haha.
Permalink posted by Anonymous ♥Susanlynn : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 3:43:00 PM EDT
 

UA, thank you for recapping what was a painful episode (at least for me). I don't envy you having to pay close attention to a boda for two characters that didn't require or need that much fanfare.

Wow, how pathetic was Boreje? Not only was he out of line, using someone else's special day to pop the question, but on what planet did Regina ever give him a sign that she was contemplating marriage? Let alone to his boring turtle ass? Talk about clueless. I cringed the whole time, poor Regina. As far as I'm concerned he deserved all the embarrassment and then some. If you choose to make a fool of yourself, then you get what you deserve for not thinking things through. The person completely put on the spot was Regina, who had to have this moment made public, then had to reject him and now endures the guilt for refusing in front of everyone.

Then there's Arturo, another classless dud. He couldn't just let Eladio's gift stand, then you know..maybe later give the newlyweds their car? That would have been too much like right and really mature. A tall order for the ass that is Arturo Montenegro. Anyway, who gives a couple he barely knows a car? Oh right mister over the top, I do everything in Grand style Montenegro. How tasteless, really. Eladio had the good sense to not insult this couple by offering over the top out of line gifts. Oh just DIE Arturo. DIE! #IhateHimSoMuch At least Eladio looked hot in his leather jacket and shades.


Speaking of looking hot, Caridud did not. Who picks out her clothes? She looked like an airline attendant, all she needed was a rolling cart. "Peanuts?" #sitdownCaridud

I was sad that Nina was stuck babysitting with chimp boy. I was rather hoping she would make a grand entrance like the true diva in some show stopper *snap-snap. I would have loved her casting some serious shade at Arturo.

What an interesting convo between Eladio and his therapist. I think it was interesting that Eladio recognized that Montsy had a substance abuse problem. We aren't privy to everyone one of their sessions, so we don't know if he has discussed the abusive/dysfuntional relationship with either of his therapists. I would assume so.. as any good, qualified therapist delves quite deeply, therefore I will believe that Eladio (who I believe has progressed as a human/Man) has shared his mistakes/abuse/regrets with the therapist (most likely the first therapist). That said, I don't believe Eladio was responsible for Montsy's drug/alcohol addictions.

I loved seeing Assmore/Franco, the two evils. I think Errick is just way out of his league with these two guys. Bring on the baddies! #LetsGetThingsMoving
Permalink posted by Blogger Delilah : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 4:05:00 PM EDT
 

NovelaMaven,

Yeah, I noticed that Eladio was the ONLY guest who dressed down for the wedding/reception. Although, not appropriately dressed for the affair, I thought it was a nice change to see him dressed casually, after seeing him wearing suits all the time.

"I think these parties/group occasions are a wonderful chance to see the characters interacting with each other."

I agree. It was nice watching everyone interact with one another while having a good time.
Permalink posted by Blogger Mauricio : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 4:35:00 PM EDT
 

Yep, Susanlynn..I like your version better. Can you put it to music now?
Permalink posted by Blogger JudyB : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 4:36:00 PM EDT
 

Delilah63, Erick is way out of his league with Franco, which is stating the obvious, but Franco is out of his league with Assmore who will try to destroy these two as revenge against both Arturo and Eladio. Daniela is also at risk because she is not in the rehab center.

As much filler as this wedding was it was meant to showcase a healthy relationship among all the dysfunctional ones. Whether Arturo's children will take him to task for the excess generosity is questionable because they all have their issues. At least Erick wasn't there to make nasty remarks.

Nina was stuck with his company so she could see what an immature, selfish jerk he really is. That he is unwilling to take care of his own son is a pretty big character deficiency and he doesn't even try to cite the (usually acceptable) excuse of work. Of course, Nina had nannies for her children back in the day so why doesn't she have one now? But it seems to become more obvious to her that Erick just doesn't care.

I agree about Caridud's dress. Almost nobody looks good in yellow and that was an awful dress. BTW, I once had a yellow T-shirt made for a magazine I did business with and I wore it to a company picnic. It attracted bees and other such insects, which made me realize why yellow T-shirts are very rare. It was a good thing I had a regular white one in my gym bag. Never wore the yellow one again after that.

Mauricio, suits were the order of the day for both lead actors because they look so good in them.
Permalink posted by Blogger Urban Anthropologist : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 4:41:00 PM EDT
 

Urban- I agree. They do both look good in suits. Erick and Franco- not so much. David looks good in a suit also. I wish David would dress more business appropriate. That wool sweater he wore to work a while back was a fashion disaster.
Permalink posted by Blogger Mauricio : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 5:02:00 PM EDT
 

JudyB, I agree with you about the nature of the convo during that "quien es mas macho" hug:

Eladio: Over-compensating much?
Arturo: What do you mean? My hands ARE bigger than yours!

I love how all Eladio has to do in order to turn Arturo into a middle school braggart is to show up. Arturo wasn't even aware that Eladio would be at the wedding, so I'm sure he had already planned to quietly give the couple their wedding gift. He's not normally one to show off or rub other people's noses in his wealth. But the instant Eladio shows up with that huge TV, up he jumps, "No, no, look at MY gift, I'm the bestest!"
Permalink posted by Anonymous Anonymous : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 5:19:00 PM EDT
 

Judyb.hmmm..what would be an appropriate tune for those particular sentiments?

UA..Yellow is not my favorite color. I like blue, but my mother always said that I looked good in yellow .

Mauricio. ...Dave likes his cardigans. I think that he is channeling Mr. Rogers.

Did Eladio come to the wedding on his midlife motorcycle? Hubba is jonesing for a Mustang...candy Apple red.
Permalink posted by Anonymous ♥Susanlynn : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 5:21:00 PM EDT
 

Susanlynn, you also notice that the upcoming TN replacing P&P will be "Yago", which is also based on Turkey's "Ezel" TV show!

I'm going to be interested to see if "Yago" will follow the original from Ezel!
Permalink posted by Blogger Steve Boudreaux : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 5:27:00 PM EDT
 

Thanks again Urban---it's hard to believe that there is only one left for you. Loved your recap, they are always so complete. You never miss even a single beat.

Wow! a lot of strong comments today. These kind of comments always amuse me because I am thoroughly enjoying it.

An irrelevant boda of irrelevant people? I loved the wedding. Arturo might call it working class if he wants but it was nice. I was happy for the nice "irrelevant" threesome. I believe that they will probably turn out to be a very happy family with far fewer problems than our two "relevant" families have.

Turtle Boy sure made a big mistake last night, he wasn't thinking. I believe that because of that night of bliss a few nights back (his bliss anyway) and then couple that with catching the garter and Regina catching the flowers---well, it was enough to push him over the edge. The poor guy has been smitten by the young goddess and who can blame him but a rushed proposal at someone else's wedding??? You blew it Turtle Boy, not only for yourself but for Regina too.

I was reading the recap and comments from Tuesday just before the show last night. Thanks for filling in Nandicta.

Ashmore is in the perfect position to hurt both families. There is no doubt that he is going down but not before he causes a lot of havoc. Dani is in trouble but doesn't know it yet. I never sat at the Daniela table but I hope that she survives whatever fate awaits her.

must see tv
the gringo
Permalink posted by Anonymous gringo : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 5:52:00 PM EDT
 

UA, What a wedding. Don't you just love it when the guest outshine the bride and groom. It was a nice ceremony. But
Then eladio and arturo played the "my gift is bigger than your gift" game. So stupid! Why bring the gift to the reception and Show how expensive the gifts are? that was so adolescent of them. And then looked like they were trying to see who was the strongest at shakin hands. So stupid!!!

And that stupid skeem jorgy played on gina, now he knows that girl is not in love with him. The sex didn't make it so. And what is dani waiting on before she cut davi lose, she knows hes not into her that way either. I realize they gotta stretch this plot To the finaly. But its just causin pain. These 4 people are misplaced, end it already.

Watchin that wedding was like pulling teeth. All that tension, and not sexual. More like annoyance. Two grownass men actin like 4year olds. Little luisita was more grown up than arturo & eladio, with her little cute curels. And arturo looked at david when he said that stuff about fighting for your love. She didn't and her dad knows the part he played in their brake up. Selfish bastard!!!!
Permalink posted by Anonymous ♡Nina : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 6:02:00 PM EDT
 

UA,

Thanks for another very comprehensive recap. Again I appreciate your extensive translations since once more last night the CCs were abysmal and utterly useless. While watching I consoled myself with, "Well tonight is UA's night, she'll give us plenty of good and reliable translation." You didn't disappoint.

I side with those labeling Arturo as a snob. No matter how one translates fiesta (slight but significant pause) popular, the fact that he felt that it needed a modifier speaks volumes about his attitude. And how about the princess's condescending response, "How good to know that the people (simple folk?) can be happy." ? Well la ti frickin' da.

I thought Caridad's outfit was lovely. I always look forward to the crisp cool bright yellow summer dresses the girls around here wear in the spring. Yellow is a favorite color of mine. when I first went into practice I fell in love with a photo of a yellow Jaguar XJ12 featured in an ad in Life Magazine. I never did get to have one (sigh).

UA,

Are you quite sure that the bees weren't after you because they liked your perfume rather than your yellow Tee?

I thought that everyone looked nice at the wedding though a number of the skirts and dresses seemed just a tad short and I thought that David overdid the eye makeup.

Carlos
Permalink posted by Blogger Carlos : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 6:42:00 PM EDT
 

Carlos..Does Dave wear manliner? I thought those were has natural eyelashes.

P.S. I think that you have earned that yellow Jaguar.
Permalink posted by Anonymous ♥Susanlynn : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 6:48:00 PM EDT
 

UA and Carlos, I personally love yellow, I think it's a color that immediately energizes and brightens my mood. That said, I think it's best only on certain things and people. Bees have a different vision than humans and are highly attracted to ultraviolet spectrum that we humans are not able to see. So that is why they are attracted to very bright flowers, yellow and blue are especially attractive to them. Red is not even in their sight capability.

I have to agree that Assmore is like a great white shark, he smells blood in the water and is going to make a feast out of Errick and Franco, Daniela is going to be his greatest victim. Poor kid, she really is out of her league with this predator.

I worked in a law firm in my early twenties and of course all the attorneys, clerks wore suits. It really does take a certain build to make a suit look great, but in my opinion it's more about the carriage and swagger. A man has to really be confident and not let the suit overtake and wear him. I think JS and FC, really know how to handle any suit. They look marvelous.

HOtladio though...looks good in anything. I sure miss those pjs!
Permalink posted by Blogger Delilah : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 7:28:00 PM EDT
 

I understood the wedding rule is not to out sexy the bride. Hello Dani (no surprise) and Connie too.
Permalink posted by Anonymous Anonymous : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 7:56:00 PM EDT
 

Speaking of yellow, I am partial to yellow too, right Steve? Especially with FLAMES.
Permalink posted by Anonymous Kirbo : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 8:37:00 PM EDT
 

Urban,
Thank you for the superb recap. Excellent as always!

Hasta Pronto
Permalink posted by Blogger AuntyAnn : Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 8:47:00 PM EDT
 

Gringo: You're right about Ashmore, this guy is most likely to destroy both families, especially the Montenegro's!


Permalink posted by Blogger Steve Boudreaux : Thursday, April 21, 2016 at 11:32:00 AM EDT
 

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