Saturday, October 19, 2019
La Usurpadora - Capitulo 25 (Finale) - And then everyone lived happily ever after…except for all of those who didn’t.
Well all good things must come to an end, and what end it was – happy, sad, bewildering, at times beanie requiring, but fiery and original, much like the series. So let's get to it one last time.
Carlos starts out his day fending off the press, as he tries to get into his car. Pascual, who must get triple pay for all these extra shifts he is pulling lately, is right there to tell the press that no questions will be answered and to help Carlos get into the car. Carlos goes to the office and finishes the conversation with Gema, where they plan his resignation announcement. Gema is hurt that she is not the one he is choosing as a life partner, but wishes him well.
Paulina appears to have recovered from the recent kidnapping, and is now dressed in a nice spring-summer number with high heels to match. She tries to make peace with Lis yet again, but Lis is off to meet mommy dearest, so she combines business with pleasure and rebuffs Paulina’s attempt to accompany her. So then Paulina decides that precise moment is a good time to tell a distressed teenager about Montse’s death. Fortunately for Lis’s sanity, she cannot fit any more tragedy into her life, so though she is shocked, seems to deal with it ok and is on her way to Paola. Emilio consoles Paulina after Lis leaves in a nice de ja vu from the times Paulina offered the same kindness to him.
Lis gets to the shelter, where she meets with Paola. They spend some time rehashing Paola’s lies and sins, and Paola does not seem to be gaining any traction with Lis. Paola goes through her usual list: misunderstood person, terrible childhood, terrible life. We wonder once again exactly what terrible things might have happened to Paola to justify this behavior. And just when Paola declares that she was just trying to get rid of the feeling that her life is a lie, and Lis wisely responds that one cannot get rid of one lie, while creating another, in walks Arcadia! She spins a little tale of a poor sad girl Paola, who Arcadia neglected and look what she grew into. Now it’s up to Lis to give her mother another chance and, by doing that, grant that chance also to Arcadia and to herself. (I almost believed Arcadia until that last manipulative sentence.) Lis agrees, so Paola excuses herself and goes outside to place a call to Paulina.
And Paulina has already been a busy bee. First thing this episode she visited Facundo and, in a very touching bedside scene, made him understand that she is not choosing him, by thanking him for what he has done for her and for Carlos. They took a walk down the hospital hall, where Facundo told her he loved her, but understood her well and knew she always wanted a family and stability in life. These are all the things that Carlos can give her. They kiss one last time and Nava dramatically exits.
Nava is picked up by his trusty crew of Pedro and Irene and, riding in the back of the car without a seat belt (always a good strategy, having just survived (eye-roll) a freak bulletproof vest malfunction...), demands to go see Teresa. They do take him to jail and he explains to Teresa that it’s in her best interests to give him the info on Paola's whereabouts. Teryfying has some conditions, one of which is that Nava kills Manuel’s dogs, as they should not survive without him. (Viewerville really hopes this is one condition Nava doesn’t keep.) Presumably she then gives up Paola’s address, as next Nava, Pedro and Irene (still in heels )storm that apartment, but find only Lis and Arcadia! Arcadia is terrified and promises to tell everything, and Lis finally realizes that she has been used.
Meanwhile after that good-bye visit with Nava, Paulina goes home and this is where she answers that call from Paola. Paola explains that she has Lis and will hurt her, if Paulina doesn’t bring her money and distance herself from everyone in the family. Paola gives her directions to a meeting point. After that Paulina does what any sane person, who is going for a ransom hand-off meeting would do: she keeps her dress and heels on (better to kick with a pointy heel probably!), packs a big bright suitcase (multitasking - after the hand-off, she will just pop into a local hotel), tells Carlos she changed her mind and is not coming back (thankfully she at least doesn’t need to worry that smart Carlos won’t believe her), and gets on her way.
She arrives at the palace (meeting point) and enters through the side door per directions from Paola. Paulina’s must have learned nothing from her adventures in Gonzalo’s house not too long ago, because she bravely wanders around that palace. Not only that, but she makes it down one of those monkey ladders wearing her heels (probably figured she is part committed by the time she got to the ladder and wouldn't it be a shame to get kidnapped barefoot).
She finally meets with Paola and a usual conversation ensues. Paola still insists her life has been robbed, but Paulina decides that Paola is wasting time, which must mean that she doesn’t have Lis. As she turns to leave she is stopped by Manuel. Paola pulls a gun out and is ready to shoot, while Paulina gives her the speech of “wherever you’ll go there you’ll be, miserable as always”.
Meanwhile the palace is being stormed by Nava and crew, some other policemen – all wearing vests, and then the President of Mexico and his security detail, all in suits and vestless. Nava is creeping up on Paola and is ready to take her down, when Manuel pushes her out of the way, catches the bullet intended for Paola and dies. Paulina runs out to Carlos, and when Paola exits, she realizes she has multiple guns pointed at her. Nava implores her to surrender and points out that she is out of options. Paola remarks that if there was something she always had in life, that’s options. They robbed her life, she says, but her death will be only hers. With that she jumps a few stories down in a slow dramatic moment.
We must have jumped ahead in time a bit, as next Lis and Paulina are making up at the house. (We couldn’t have jumped all that far, as Paulina is still wearing the same dress…) Lis doesn’t seem very upset at her mother’s death and says Paola was never there for her. (Still, interesting she is taking it so well…) Emilio walks in to complete a nice family scene.
Nava goes to see Teresa and tells her both Paola and Manuel are dead. She is distraught, as she thought Manuel to be safely out of the country.
Now we really jump in time. Emilio is getting ready to leave for college, as Gema (Interim President) is settling in. Emilio has a nice good-bye with Gema, and then with Juana. He and Fero are off to Berkeley and leave to catch the plane.
Next we see everyone at Nava’s award presentation ceremony for bravery. Carlos and Paulina seem happy, and both Nava and Gema seem like they are not dwelling on their lost loves. Nava invited Osvi to the party, and Osvi and Osito make up. Pedro marches over to his father and introduces Osvi as his novio. His father does not seem to have a good reaction, and Pascual escorts him away to break the tension.
Days later Paulina and Lis visit with the girl at the shelter, who had her daughter by now and named her Montse. Later that evening Paulina and Carlos go back to the restaurant they went to a while back (the one with Mezcal and worms) and reminisce about everything that happened. Carlos proposes and Paulina accepts, but says she will put the ring on when they have their own place and own life.
Back in jail Terry is defeated and alone, with a cigarette and her tears. At his ranch Nava puts a cowboy outfit on and rides on his horse into… a broad daylight. (I feel compelled to add here that he was, in fact, wearing a shirt.) Emilio is happy in America with Fero and same for Osvi and Osito back in Mexico. Gema is content in her office, and Arcadia is running a casino in jail and seems ecstatic at her lot in life as well. The First Family is finally moving out, the suitcases are packed. Lis and Piedad exit, and so do Carlos and Paulina finally, hand-in-hand.
And there we leave them. It’s been quite a journey guys, thanks for letting me be a part of it and for coming along for the ride.
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Thank you so much, Ria! You are amazing.
As was this series. What a top-notch production. Kudos to the director, the camera people and every single cast member. I’m adding this to my short list of telenovelas that are movie quality. Up until now just Celia and Mariposa del Barrio were there. I hope we get to see more outstanding productions like this.
My tip-top favorite actor in this was Juan Carlos Barreto, who played Manuel. I loved him in Papa a Toda Madre too – he has such an underlying sweetness, here even as a bad guy. I also loved Paco Rueda, who played Pedro. But everyone was truly splendid.
Great stuff.
As was this series. What a top-notch production. Kudos to the director, the camera people and every single cast member. I’m adding this to my short list of telenovelas that are movie quality. Up until now just Celia and Mariposa del Barrio were there. I hope we get to see more outstanding productions like this.
My tip-top favorite actor in this was Juan Carlos Barreto, who played Manuel. I loved him in Papa a Toda Madre too – he has such an underlying sweetness, here even as a bad guy. I also loved Paco Rueda, who played Pedro. But everyone was truly splendid.
Great stuff.
Ria thank you so much for this fun ride. Your recaps have been superb! Your observations about Lis and her mental state were both insightful and amusing. Some gems I must quote as they were LOL moments for me: Nava "riding in the back of the car without a seat belt (always a good strategy, having just survived (eye-roll) a freak bulletproof vest malfunction...)."
Paulina "tells Carlos she changed her mind and is not coming back (thankfully she at least doesn’t need to worry that smart Carlos won’t believe her)." So glad I wasn't drinking anything when I read those lines ;). And your comments about Paulina's efficiency and Irene's shoes also gave me a chuckle.
While Terry has been crazy, her condition that Manuel's dogs be killed made me really hate her; ok I disliked her before that but the dogs were a bridge too far. They could have nice lives with sane people; let them live and try to move away from death as your constant and seemingly only option, Terry or you may end up like Paola.
I'm happy Gema and Nava seemed at peace as we ended; I giggled at your comment about Nava, his horse, and his clothes. Still wish Montse was with us but it was a nice touch that the young woman named her baby after the tn's best character. Glad Paulina got her family and her man. I'm still hoping being with her makes Carlos smarter.
Maggie - This is my first time seeing Juan Carlos and Paco. They were both great and I hope to see them again.
Paulina "tells Carlos she changed her mind and is not coming back (thankfully she at least doesn’t need to worry that smart Carlos won’t believe her)." So glad I wasn't drinking anything when I read those lines ;). And your comments about Paulina's efficiency and Irene's shoes also gave me a chuckle.
While Terry has been crazy, her condition that Manuel's dogs be killed made me really hate her; ok I disliked her before that but the dogs were a bridge too far. They could have nice lives with sane people; let them live and try to move away from death as your constant and seemingly only option, Terry or you may end up like Paola.
I'm happy Gema and Nava seemed at peace as we ended; I giggled at your comment about Nava, his horse, and his clothes. Still wish Montse was with us but it was a nice touch that the young woman named her baby after the tn's best character. Glad Paulina got her family and her man. I'm still hoping being with her makes Carlos smarter.
Maggie - This is my first time seeing Juan Carlos and Paco. They were both great and I hope to see them again.
Ria, a big thanks for your final recap. I enjoyed all of your recaps. You have a talent for this! Also, a big thanks to Princess Juju for her very entertaining recaps. Both of you made watching this even more enjoyable.
What to say? This 25 episode adventure was a nice switch. I like that they took their time in the last 15 min. to give a proper ending to the story and characters. Nava riding off into the sunset (so to speak) was iconic. I like when stories have definite endings and a happy ending, after all of this drama, is also welcome.
Maggie, ITA about Juan Carlos Barreto. He was also excellent in “La candidata” playing a much different less sympathetic role.
Karen, “I’m still hoping Carlos being with her makes Carlos smarter”. Exactly! Thanks for the laugh!
What to say? This 25 episode adventure was a nice switch. I like that they took their time in the last 15 min. to give a proper ending to the story and characters. Nava riding off into the sunset (so to speak) was iconic. I like when stories have definite endings and a happy ending, after all of this drama, is also welcome.
Maggie, ITA about Juan Carlos Barreto. He was also excellent in “La candidata” playing a much different less sympathetic role.
Karen, “I’m still hoping Carlos being with her makes Carlos smarter”. Exactly! Thanks for the laugh!
Excellent, Ria. You definitely have a talent for this and I hope you recap again after the well-deserved rest you should now get.
I was totally appalled at Teresa's directive to Nava about the dogs. I am not pleased that we don't know the outcome. Nava should have taken those dogs to his ranch and into his heart. They would be happy and cared for with lots of fresh air.
At least all the evil ones met their well-deserved fates.
I was not surprised at Pedro's father's reaction. I've seen that before in novelas and this is perhaps the message that the military is still not ready to accept this.
As for someone's question yesterday about whether Carlos could afford to send Emilio to Berkley, I think he comes from money. Most career politicians do.
I was totally appalled at Teresa's directive to Nava about the dogs. I am not pleased that we don't know the outcome. Nava should have taken those dogs to his ranch and into his heart. They would be happy and cared for with lots of fresh air.
At least all the evil ones met their well-deserved fates.
I was not surprised at Pedro's father's reaction. I've seen that before in novelas and this is perhaps the message that the military is still not ready to accept this.
As for someone's question yesterday about whether Carlos could afford to send Emilio to Berkley, I think he comes from money. Most career politicians do.
Thanks, Ria. Perfect title for the closing of our adult fairytale. I'm so glad you decided to recap LU -- Applause, Applause, Applause!!! for the fantastic recaps day after day. They were always a treat.
I'm mostly satisfied with the ending.
UA, I wished they'd shown the dogs at Nava's ranch too. Or they could be living with Pedro and Osvi. I don't believe Nava abided by Teresa's loony condition, so those dogs are alive somewhere.
So Aracadia is thriving in prison? Yes, she's running her casino inside the slammer, but then there's also the horrible food, plain uniform, and tiny cell. But I did get a kick out of her staying true to her joy of gambling.
I rooted for Nava, but I'm fine with Paulina choosing Carlos. Carlos is a better man and father now and those soulful eyes don't hurt one bit. He will support Paulina in whatever she chooses to do.
Maggie, ITA Juan Carlos Barreto is a chameleon. It must be big fun (if not big bucks) to play so many different types of roles.
I'm mostly satisfied with the ending.
UA, I wished they'd shown the dogs at Nava's ranch too. Or they could be living with Pedro and Osvi. I don't believe Nava abided by Teresa's loony condition, so those dogs are alive somewhere.
So Aracadia is thriving in prison? Yes, she's running her casino inside the slammer, but then there's also the horrible food, plain uniform, and tiny cell. But I did get a kick out of her staying true to her joy of gambling.
I rooted for Nava, but I'm fine with Paulina choosing Carlos. Carlos is a better man and father now and those soulful eyes don't hurt one bit. He will support Paulina in whatever she chooses to do.
Maggie, ITA Juan Carlos Barreto is a chameleon. It must be big fun (if not big bucks) to play so many different types of roles.
Umm what happened to Paulina’s foundation? Her kids there? And her best friend and Olga’s friend? Did I miss that? Nothing on Wilson stealing from the foundation?
Manuel and Paola has easy sentences. The ones who weren’t even full on the plan from the start are paying for their misdeeds. A little unfair.
Lis’ turn around was too fast and unconvincing.
Poor Nava I thought maybe he’d get Irene at least.
Manuel and Paola has easy sentences. The ones who weren’t even full on the plan from the start are paying for their misdeeds. A little unfair.
Lis’ turn around was too fast and unconvincing.
Poor Nava I thought maybe he’d get Irene at least.
Permalink posted by 
: Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 9:01:00 AM EDT
: Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 9:01:00 AM EDT
Ria, pure perfection. Your recaps have been joyful, sorrowful but always reflective of the events with a keen eye, remarkable perception and wry humor.
I loved your recap. "They kiss one last time and Nava dramatically exits" and many others were magical.
I think this might have been my favorite TN ending. Carlos was sent an angel of mercy and wisdom. Carlos proved he had courage and by the end, he was clearly animated, happy and full of personality. I believe Paulina did love Carlos and the family was simply a wonderful bonus. Nava saved her but her lot was to do likewise.
Happy endings for the children, power at last for the woman who has wielded it silently all along, Gema. Fitting ends for Nava and Arcacia. Many butterfly kisses for Pedro. Paola choosing her own ending was fitting.
Mercifully, I did not understand Terry's request that the dogs be killed. We actually had seen them leave the house in an earlier scene and I doubt they were corralled back. I choose to believe they are snuggly nestled in someone's home. The most startling thing to me last night was the fact Terry told Nava the dogs were Manuel's. It was she, not he, who was constantly paying attention to them. Small detail but just inconsistent.
Juana closing the doors as the screen faded to black was marvelous.
Thank you wonderful Ria, for your amazing summaries. Princess, a heartfelt thank you to you as well.
So many excellent comments today from the wonderful, kind and supportive patio,
It's been a wonderful ride. Thank you all.
Diana
I loved your recap. "They kiss one last time and Nava dramatically exits" and many others were magical.
I think this might have been my favorite TN ending. Carlos was sent an angel of mercy and wisdom. Carlos proved he had courage and by the end, he was clearly animated, happy and full of personality. I believe Paulina did love Carlos and the family was simply a wonderful bonus. Nava saved her but her lot was to do likewise.
Happy endings for the children, power at last for the woman who has wielded it silently all along, Gema. Fitting ends for Nava and Arcacia. Many butterfly kisses for Pedro. Paola choosing her own ending was fitting.
Mercifully, I did not understand Terry's request that the dogs be killed. We actually had seen them leave the house in an earlier scene and I doubt they were corralled back. I choose to believe they are snuggly nestled in someone's home. The most startling thing to me last night was the fact Terry told Nava the dogs were Manuel's. It was she, not he, who was constantly paying attention to them. Small detail but just inconsistent.
Juana closing the doors as the screen faded to black was marvelous.
Thank you wonderful Ria, for your amazing summaries. Princess, a heartfelt thank you to you as well.
So many excellent comments today from the wonderful, kind and supportive patio,
It's been a wonderful ride. Thank you all.
Diana
Permalink posted by : Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 10:52:00 AM EDT
: Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 10:52:00 AM EDT
Actually, there was nothing inconsistent about Terrifying's story. Manuel may have gotten on well with the dogs, but they actually were hers. She simply could not stand the idea that their love would belong to another person once she ends up in the slammer for the rest of her life.
This is a lot like what happened with my narcissistic mother. She had a very sweet cat for the last five to six years of her life. When we argued about her threat to disinherit me and I said "Go ahead. I'll take Tiger and that will be the end of it." Her response was that she wanted him destroyed at her death. She said that to deliberately offend me and she couldn't stand the idea that Tiger loved me. BTW, I took him out of her house the day she died and he lived another seven years with me. He was a sweet and happy cat. Her will was legally incomplete and as her only surviving child I got her house, which I sold for a very good price.
This is a lot like what happened with my narcissistic mother. She had a very sweet cat for the last five to six years of her life. When we argued about her threat to disinherit me and I said "Go ahead. I'll take Tiger and that will be the end of it." Her response was that she wanted him destroyed at her death. She said that to deliberately offend me and she couldn't stand the idea that Tiger loved me. BTW, I took him out of her house the day she died and he lived another seven years with me. He was a sweet and happy cat. Her will was legally incomplete and as her only surviving child I got her house, which I sold for a very good price.
Morning/afternoon guys! So much great discussion! I am traveling today but can't wait to respond in detail later this afternoon.
On ending: I originally (if I was forced to pick) was rooting for Nava as well over Carlos, but seeing him during the last two episodes kind of singularly focused on "getting Paola" rather than thinking about kids, family, what it might mean for Carlos and Paulina, as well as seeing him ride off somewhere on a horse, does probably show that he is not the most stable choice. So while he is "exciting", that may get old in the long run. And I thought other characters did get their version of justice. Pretty good wrap up for a 25 episode run.
Also - if anyone is interested, I wanted to do a separate posting next week on comparison between this version and the original LU from 1997, just because I think it's interesting how different the two are. However I don't want to spoil the original LU, if anyone was planning to watch it, so please let me know. I wouldn't disclose much plot from LU 1997, but some would probably be obvious from character descriptions.
Thank you all! And back later with more :)
On ending: I originally (if I was forced to pick) was rooting for Nava as well over Carlos, but seeing him during the last two episodes kind of singularly focused on "getting Paola" rather than thinking about kids, family, what it might mean for Carlos and Paulina, as well as seeing him ride off somewhere on a horse, does probably show that he is not the most stable choice. So while he is "exciting", that may get old in the long run. And I thought other characters did get their version of justice. Pretty good wrap up for a 25 episode run.
Also - if anyone is interested, I wanted to do a separate posting next week on comparison between this version and the original LU from 1997, just because I think it's interesting how different the two are. However I don't want to spoil the original LU, if anyone was planning to watch it, so please let me know. I wouldn't disclose much plot from LU 1997, but some would probably be obvious from character descriptions.
Thank you all! And back later with more :)
Ria, this was a pleasant ending to a
Fast moving 18 wheeler. That went off a cliff. Paola being being the one off
The cliff. She choose to die with as much grace as she could muster. Still
Didn't get what she wanted. Talk about
A wasted life.She let her bad horrible upbringing define her future, and it
Was a dark one. And sad. There was nothing graceful about that death.
O well onward, And upward.
Ok, you do not kill the animals owned
By humans. It's not the animals fault their owners were idiots and jackasses
And coldblooded killers. They shouldve
Did one of those PSA things "during the filming of this show no animals were harmed. But they didn't so..movin on.
Pedro's dad was like a dead man moving as Pascal turned Him away from his son.
Those generals don't ever retire? They looked like they should have retired years ago.
Nava looked sad riding alone. He would loved to have Paulina there to share his ranch with. He actually looked sad
Irene didn't seem like a home-on-the Ranch-kind-of-a-girl.What of the heels where would she wear them? He'll find
Some Body. He looks good on the horse.
Ria thanks you for your tirelessly recapping Of this tn. You stuck it out in grand fashion. Lookin forward to reading more of your recap on future tns.
Fast moving 18 wheeler. That went off a cliff. Paola being being the one off
The cliff. She choose to die with as much grace as she could muster. Still
Didn't get what she wanted. Talk about
A wasted life.She let her bad horrible upbringing define her future, and it
Was a dark one. And sad. There was nothing graceful about that death.
O well onward, And upward.
Ok, you do not kill the animals owned
By humans. It's not the animals fault their owners were idiots and jackasses
And coldblooded killers. They shouldve
Did one of those PSA things "during the filming of this show no animals were harmed. But they didn't so..movin on.
Pedro's dad was like a dead man moving as Pascal turned Him away from his son.
Those generals don't ever retire? They looked like they should have retired years ago.
Nava looked sad riding alone. He would loved to have Paulina there to share his ranch with. He actually looked sad
Irene didn't seem like a home-on-the Ranch-kind-of-a-girl.What of the heels where would she wear them? He'll find
Some Body. He looks good on the horse.
Ria thanks you for your tirelessly recapping Of this tn. You stuck it out in grand fashion. Lookin forward to reading more of your recap on future tns.
Permalink posted by : Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 12:52:00 PM EDT
: Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 12:52:00 PM EDT
RIa, this was simply OUTSTANDING as were all of your other recaps. Thank you so much for taking this on; it was a pleasure to read your recaps along with all the sides that made it so much more entertaining. And a big thank you to Princess Juju for her incredible recaps too; you two made a great team.
Liz's turn-about was a bit too quick, but I'm glad she will now have a good mother-figure.
I really didn't see Paola's suicide coming, but her last statement, twisted as it was, justified her ending. Did anyone else think of Nora's fall in "El Color de la Pasion?" Very similar to Paola's!
Maggie, JC BArreto was excellent in this production. I was mesmerized by his ability to be so ruthless, yet so gullible ( and really dumb) when it came to Paola.
Diana, "Mercifully, I did not understand Terry's request that the dogs be killed. We actually had seen them leave the house in an earlier scene and I doubt they were corralled back. I choose to believe they are snuggly nestled in someone's home." You must have read my thoughts. I refuse to picture the dogs anywhere other than a happy home with lots of room to romp.
I too am glad Paulina ended up with Carlos. Despite his challenged intelligence, he did mna-up and try to protect Paulina...and he chose his family over the presidency.
Gema looked really good as interim president...she had all the smarts and deserved to take over.
I was so happy for Emilio! He finally found his path and someone to share it with.
All-in-all, the actor's performance was excellent; and the tale was equally as good.
Muchisimas gracias, Ria!!
Liz's turn-about was a bit too quick, but I'm glad she will now have a good mother-figure.
I really didn't see Paola's suicide coming, but her last statement, twisted as it was, justified her ending. Did anyone else think of Nora's fall in "El Color de la Pasion?" Very similar to Paola's!
Maggie, JC BArreto was excellent in this production. I was mesmerized by his ability to be so ruthless, yet so gullible ( and really dumb) when it came to Paola.
Diana, "Mercifully, I did not understand Terry's request that the dogs be killed. We actually had seen them leave the house in an earlier scene and I doubt they were corralled back. I choose to believe they are snuggly nestled in someone's home." You must have read my thoughts. I refuse to picture the dogs anywhere other than a happy home with lots of room to romp.
I too am glad Paulina ended up with Carlos. Despite his challenged intelligence, he did mna-up and try to protect Paulina...and he chose his family over the presidency.
Gema looked really good as interim president...she had all the smarts and deserved to take over.
I was so happy for Emilio! He finally found his path and someone to share it with.
All-in-all, the actor's performance was excellent; and the tale was equally as good.
Muchisimas gracias, Ria!!
Thank Princess JuJu. You are also one
Of the masters of recapping. Thank you for keeping us entertained with your snapy snark. I told you, you recappers are golden. Thank you!
Of the masters of recapping. Thank you for keeping us entertained with your snapy snark. I told you, you recappers are golden. Thank you!
Permalink posted by : Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 1:05:00 PM EDT
: Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 1:05:00 PM EDT
It's very sad that Paola didn't think to take her life back and Make it productive instead of blaming every
Other person that didn't agree with her for her had choices. Even when Olga told her what forbid her from keeping her, she didn't really care she just wanted to stay comfortable with her hatred for her sister. Maybe
Paulina did get the better half of the
Situation, but still no reason to want
Everybody else to be in misery. Cuz it
Certainly did not help her.And as far as Looks go in the end, she was just a beautiful corps. In Red.
Other person that didn't agree with her for her had choices. Even when Olga told her what forbid her from keeping her, she didn't really care she just wanted to stay comfortable with her hatred for her sister. Maybe
Paulina did get the better half of the
Situation, but still no reason to want
Everybody else to be in misery. Cuz it
Certainly did not help her.And as far as Looks go in the end, she was just a beautiful corps. In Red.
Permalink posted by : Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 1:24:00 PM EDT
: Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 1:24:00 PM EDT
Deleted my previous comment because of a minor error lol
But again, this finale was okay. I’m not surprised that Paulina chose Carlos over Nava. Nava handled it well.
Loved Paola’s Nora Gaxiola style suicide. However, I think she was wrong in saying that Paulina must’ve enjoyed taking her place. Paulina wasn’t trying to be anyone but herself.
I was surprised and amused that Gema took over the presidency. Interesting turn of events for her considering her relationship with Carlos.
Manuel was loyal to Paola until the end. I wonder if she even felt an ounce of emotion when he did that but I’m almost doubtful.
But again, this finale was okay. I’m not surprised that Paulina chose Carlos over Nava. Nava handled it well.
Loved Paola’s Nora Gaxiola style suicide. However, I think she was wrong in saying that Paulina must’ve enjoyed taking her place. Paulina wasn’t trying to be anyone but herself.
I was surprised and amused that Gema took over the presidency. Interesting turn of events for her considering her relationship with Carlos.
Manuel was loyal to Paola until the end. I wonder if she even felt an ounce of emotion when he did that but I’m almost doubtful.
Ria, I would love a comparison between this and the original LU from 1997 if you'd like to do one. I've heard a lot about the original. I just looked it up on Wiki and see Fernando Colunga was in it. I'm assuming he played the "Carlos"-type role.
Ría your recaps are outstanding. Why don't you recap Cuna de Lobos it's next in the classic remake series... Also 25 episodes.. Starts Monday
Ria, thank you for this final recap and all the other recaps you gave us. You are a dynamo ! I also loved your clever titles.
The writers really wrapped everything up with a best bow in top.
As soon as Nava succumbed to Irene's charms , I knew he was out of the running for the fair Paulina ,whereas Carlos did not fall back into Gema's waiting arms once he seemed to be falling for Paulina.
The part that gave me a giggle was Acacia sending to e having the time of her life gambling with her prison friends. Card party in celluloid 5!!
And for all those who worry about the fate of those doggies...fear not. We're talking about Nava here. A guy who seems perfectly able to look right into your eyes and say " sure" while actually thinking " are you kidding ?...no way ")
The writers really wrapped everything up with a best bow in top.
As soon as Nava succumbed to Irene's charms , I knew he was out of the running for the fair Paulina ,whereas Carlos did not fall back into Gema's waiting arms once he seemed to be falling for Paulina.
The part that gave me a giggle was Acacia sending to e having the time of her life gambling with her prison friends. Card party in celluloid 5!!
And for all those who worry about the fate of those doggies...fear not. We're talking about Nava here. A guy who seems perfectly able to look right into your eyes and say " sure" while actually thinking " are you kidding ?...no way ")
Permalink posted by : Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 4:08:00 PM EDT
: Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 4:08:00 PM EDT
I second everything the others said about your superb recaps and Princess Juju's excellent helping out, Ria. I also agree that this was a satisfying ending, though in a few places a little anticlimactic. As someone who went to grad school at UC Berkeley many years ago, I thought Piedad's warning to Emilio not to come back with marijuana was funny. I remember walking home to my apartment every day and passing a hippy commune which really did reek of marijuana.
Rgv Chick, your assessment of Gema was superb "she had all the smarts and deserved to take over". Indeed!
Susanlynn, I feel better reading your spot on assessment of Nava "A guy who seems perfectly able to look right into your eyes and say " sure" while actually thinking " are you kidding ?...no way ")". Live and run free doggies.
Ria, like Niecie, I would also love to see the comparison of the 2 LU's...
Montse as the TNs best character was so true Karen. I wish she'd been with Paulina at the end.
Urban, it's one thing to watch a painful, hard to fathom storyline but to actually have experienced it? You've chosen kindness and caring in the face of great adversity. I will simply say you have my admiration. And respect. Bless you.
"Paulina wasn’t trying to be anyone but herself". Well said TF.
Jarifa, I was also so happy we got to actually see the characters start their new lives, and happily too.
The acting was sensational, all the way around. Surpassed only by the recapping.
Diana
Susanlynn, I feel better reading your spot on assessment of Nava "A guy who seems perfectly able to look right into your eyes and say " sure" while actually thinking " are you kidding ?...no way ")". Live and run free doggies.
Ria, like Niecie, I would also love to see the comparison of the 2 LU's...
Montse as the TNs best character was so true Karen. I wish she'd been with Paulina at the end.
Urban, it's one thing to watch a painful, hard to fathom storyline but to actually have experienced it? You've chosen kindness and caring in the face of great adversity. I will simply say you have my admiration. And respect. Bless you.
"Paulina wasn’t trying to be anyone but herself". Well said TF.
Jarifa, I was also so happy we got to actually see the characters start their new lives, and happily too.
The acting was sensational, all the way around. Surpassed only by the recapping.
Diana
Permalink posted by : Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 8:04:00 PM EDT
: Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 8:04:00 PM EDT
Good evening! A day of much driving and finally settling in to read and respond.
First of all, thank you all so very much for making this such a wonderful trip down 25 episodes of a really fast moving series with surprising twists! We could not have had a better patio and more engaging discussion. You all made it a fantastic ride! And a special thank you to my recapping partner Princess Juju - I so appreciate your time, your humor and talent you've given us!
Now on to the juicy stuff!
Maggie - I so agree with you on the quality of this production. Quite unusual to have a TN so masterfully done. Big kudos as well to all the actors for sure. I second your applause for Manuel and Pedro. I was so pleasantly surprised to discover the range of acting in Juan Carlos Barreto - even within this one character he moved from villain to a weakling in ten seconds and back. Pedro was a revelation. And Sandra outdid herself! What a wonderful ride.
Karen - I, too, was glad we ended up with Gema and Nava going off to live their own lives and not sulking in the corner. IMO this is such a (great) recent departure in TN land from the typical script. A few years ago we would have seen Gema and Nava hiding in the corner of the church silently watching Carlos and Paulina say "I do." One of the things I really liked about this novela is that they showed people as they are - imperfect and flawed, even the good guys. And they showed life as it is - complicated, and not always black and white. Granted there was plenty of TN fairy dust sprinkled in, but on the whole nicely done.
Oh, and I really did not understand the ask on getting rid of the dogs. Terry really is a terrifying psychopath.
Jarifa - yes!! 25 episodes was perfect. Yes, we left some loose ends hanging there, but there wasn't one episode that felt like a filler, or was so slow moving that nothing happened. These shorter series keep you reeled in and interested.
First of all, thank you all so very much for making this such a wonderful trip down 25 episodes of a really fast moving series with surprising twists! We could not have had a better patio and more engaging discussion. You all made it a fantastic ride! And a special thank you to my recapping partner Princess Juju - I so appreciate your time, your humor and talent you've given us!
Now on to the juicy stuff!
Maggie - I so agree with you on the quality of this production. Quite unusual to have a TN so masterfully done. Big kudos as well to all the actors for sure. I second your applause for Manuel and Pedro. I was so pleasantly surprised to discover the range of acting in Juan Carlos Barreto - even within this one character he moved from villain to a weakling in ten seconds and back. Pedro was a revelation. And Sandra outdid herself! What a wonderful ride.
Karen - I, too, was glad we ended up with Gema and Nava going off to live their own lives and not sulking in the corner. IMO this is such a (great) recent departure in TN land from the typical script. A few years ago we would have seen Gema and Nava hiding in the corner of the church silently watching Carlos and Paulina say "I do." One of the things I really liked about this novela is that they showed people as they are - imperfect and flawed, even the good guys. And they showed life as it is - complicated, and not always black and white. Granted there was plenty of TN fairy dust sprinkled in, but on the whole nicely done.
Oh, and I really did not understand the ask on getting rid of the dogs. Terry really is a terrifying psychopath.
Jarifa - yes!! 25 episodes was perfect. Yes, we left some loose ends hanging there, but there wasn't one episode that felt like a filler, or was so slow moving that nothing happened. These shorter series keep you reeled in and interested.
UA - I definitely hope to recap again soon. I will take a bit of time to catch up on other novelas in the meantime - really behind on El Dragon (by behind I mean that I watched the first two episodes so far...but hope to make a good dent in it next week!)
I guess I wasn't surprised by Pedro's father's reaction either. Yet another aspect, where I am glad they steered away from happily ever after and showed how sometimes it doesn't happen. They were very realistic and shown that there is still a lot of intolerance, even among family members. I am really glad Mexican novelas are highlighting issues that again even a few years ago they would not have shown, against the backdrop of a damsel in distress and a violent (or what they meant to equate to strong in some of those novelas) main character.
Also, I am glad you were able to save your mother's cat and give him a good home after she was gone. Such dynamics are always so difficult.
Niecie - you said it so perfectly. I, too, am "mostly satisfied with the ending" :) I rooted for Nava too over Carlos, but Carlos is probably a better choice for her. And I also hope the dogs are alive somewhere.
Anon 9:01 - yes, thank you for mentioning this! What about the robbed foundation? The kids? Colombia and treacherous Andrea? And yes, I also thought List came around lightning fast in what seemed to be mere hours since her mother's death, judging by everyone's outfits. But oh well. I guess we can have 25 episodes, or all the loose ends wrapped up. For a short series still pretty good!
Diana - happy endings abound indeed! The writers made some very good choices in the end, I agree. And the fade-out scene with Juana was perfect, as you said. It would be nice if they gave her story a potential future too, but who knows - much like we are imagining dogs have been rescued by Nava and are with great owners now, we can picture Juana getting lunch with Demetrio soon and maybe rekindling something.
Nina - yes, Paola's storyline was even hard to watch or believe at times, wasn't it? She really self-destructed for no reason. She hated her life, but even after the failed attempt at Paulina, could have just left. She had so many opportunities, but she seems to have wanted both a different life, and also to see Paulina dead to repay for an imaginary wrong she did her. Such a waste indeed.
Rgv Chick - agree with you - Carlos really stepped up in the end. Especially his willingness to give up the presidency showed that he did place his family first. And Gema is a great choice, who earned it fair and square, as you said.
TF - I wonder too if Paola felt anything at Manuel's sacrifice. My inclination would also be to doubt it. She seemed to believe the world rightfully revolves around her.
Hugo - thank you very much. I will probably sit out Cuna de Lobos, as I want to catch up on El Dragon and won't be able to fit more than one TN into my current schedule. But I certainly hope to be back and recap in the not too distant future!
Susanlynn - your description of Arcadia in the cell block made me giggle so much as well! So well said and yes indeed. Happiness to everyone. Thanks for calming us about the puppies too - you are very right, they are safe with Nava.
SpanProf - oh yes, marijuana line was wonderful! Especially the fact that it is free over there, according to Piedad. Piedad is quite the character. I agree with you, too, that Wilson's embezzlement could have been explained and revisited. But I guess not this time.
Niecie and Diana - sounds great, I will then tentatively plan to do a comparison post next week! Niecie - yes, it did have Fernando Colunga in it! He was quite young there too and did play Carlos with some very striking character similarities :)
I guess I wasn't surprised by Pedro's father's reaction either. Yet another aspect, where I am glad they steered away from happily ever after and showed how sometimes it doesn't happen. They were very realistic and shown that there is still a lot of intolerance, even among family members. I am really glad Mexican novelas are highlighting issues that again even a few years ago they would not have shown, against the backdrop of a damsel in distress and a violent (or what they meant to equate to strong in some of those novelas) main character.
Also, I am glad you were able to save your mother's cat and give him a good home after she was gone. Such dynamics are always so difficult.
Niecie - you said it so perfectly. I, too, am "mostly satisfied with the ending" :) I rooted for Nava too over Carlos, but Carlos is probably a better choice for her. And I also hope the dogs are alive somewhere.
Anon 9:01 - yes, thank you for mentioning this! What about the robbed foundation? The kids? Colombia and treacherous Andrea? And yes, I also thought List came around lightning fast in what seemed to be mere hours since her mother's death, judging by everyone's outfits. But oh well. I guess we can have 25 episodes, or all the loose ends wrapped up. For a short series still pretty good!
Diana - happy endings abound indeed! The writers made some very good choices in the end, I agree. And the fade-out scene with Juana was perfect, as you said. It would be nice if they gave her story a potential future too, but who knows - much like we are imagining dogs have been rescued by Nava and are with great owners now, we can picture Juana getting lunch with Demetrio soon and maybe rekindling something.
Nina - yes, Paola's storyline was even hard to watch or believe at times, wasn't it? She really self-destructed for no reason. She hated her life, but even after the failed attempt at Paulina, could have just left. She had so many opportunities, but she seems to have wanted both a different life, and also to see Paulina dead to repay for an imaginary wrong she did her. Such a waste indeed.
Rgv Chick - agree with you - Carlos really stepped up in the end. Especially his willingness to give up the presidency showed that he did place his family first. And Gema is a great choice, who earned it fair and square, as you said.
TF - I wonder too if Paola felt anything at Manuel's sacrifice. My inclination would also be to doubt it. She seemed to believe the world rightfully revolves around her.
Hugo - thank you very much. I will probably sit out Cuna de Lobos, as I want to catch up on El Dragon and won't be able to fit more than one TN into my current schedule. But I certainly hope to be back and recap in the not too distant future!
Susanlynn - your description of Arcadia in the cell block made me giggle so much as well! So well said and yes indeed. Happiness to everyone. Thanks for calming us about the puppies too - you are very right, they are safe with Nava.
SpanProf - oh yes, marijuana line was wonderful! Especially the fact that it is free over there, according to Piedad. Piedad is quite the character. I agree with you, too, that Wilson's embezzlement could have been explained and revisited. But I guess not this time.
Niecie and Diana - sounds great, I will then tentatively plan to do a comparison post next week! Niecie - yes, it did have Fernando Colunga in it! He was quite young there too and did play Carlos with some very striking character similarities :)
That scene of the servants assembled outside reminded me of the servants gathered in" Downton Abbey. "
Permalink posted by : Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 9:27:00 PM EDT
: Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 9:27:00 PM EDT
Hugo, recapping these series is a big job. Ria deserves a rest after doing almost all the ones of the last five weeks. I am wondering whether these condensed series are a little harder because there is no filler we can really skip over.
I also thought of Nora Gaxiola when Paola took that plunge. Both of these characters were malignant narcissists who felt a need to spread the misery around. Had Paola not killed herself she would have been in prison, perhaps near Arcadia. Under the heading of All Things Considered, she probably would have thought that a fate worse than death.
I also thought of Nora Gaxiola when Paola took that plunge. Both of these characters were malignant narcissists who felt a need to spread the misery around. Had Paola not killed herself she would have been in prison, perhaps near Arcadia. Under the heading of All Things Considered, she probably would have thought that a fate worse than death.
So sorry it took this long to add to the praises to Ria for her magnificent job on recapping the series and for JuJu giving her some needed respite with great recaps of her own.
I agree that the production was tight, taut, well cast, well acted and was free of long, needless side stories. (And kudos to Sandra Echevarria.) I hope Televisa has learned its lesson. I wonder if the actors don't enjoy shorter novelas, too, and pour their efforts into making a good showing. Unfortunately, the pace leaves out developing the characters deeply. I feel I didn't really get to know the characters well at all because we were quickly moved on to the next action. Given that, it was much better than most 2-hour movies of similar genre.
I know I'll be in the minority, but for me the ending was too much fancy icing on the cake. First, like Susanlynn, I was reminded of Downton Abbey, too, at the end. It might have been clever to book end the story having the servidumbre start the show welcoming the "new" President and his family to the manse, introducing the main characters--then somehow rolled over to 2 anos despues, or something like that.
Each of the characters got what they deserved in the end. Sorry, but I had to guffaw watching Nava ride off into the sunshine, but what else could he have done? There was no one with whom he could sit in front of the fire and shar a glass of wine since Irene probably went home to her husband every night.
Gema will only serve out the rest of Carlos' term, but I have a feeling she will make a run for the presidency on her own. The only drawback to her winning is how a macho society (and their women) will feel about voting for her. Times are a changin', Mexico. You may be next up to really elect a woman.
There was no way Paola could have been allowed to remain alive. She would always be a danger and a threat to Paulina and the rest. She took the right way out. Someone shooting her would have been a let down.
Everything else was wrapped up in a pretty bow. It's about the best we can ask for these days. I'm glad I watched it, glad it's over and it was the perfect number of episodes--didn't lose my interest by going on too long with beanie-needing contrivances.
On to Cuna. See you folks there.
I agree that the production was tight, taut, well cast, well acted and was free of long, needless side stories. (And kudos to Sandra Echevarria.) I hope Televisa has learned its lesson. I wonder if the actors don't enjoy shorter novelas, too, and pour their efforts into making a good showing. Unfortunately, the pace leaves out developing the characters deeply. I feel I didn't really get to know the characters well at all because we were quickly moved on to the next action. Given that, it was much better than most 2-hour movies of similar genre.
I know I'll be in the minority, but for me the ending was too much fancy icing on the cake. First, like Susanlynn, I was reminded of Downton Abbey, too, at the end. It might have been clever to book end the story having the servidumbre start the show welcoming the "new" President and his family to the manse, introducing the main characters--then somehow rolled over to 2 anos despues, or something like that.
Each of the characters got what they deserved in the end. Sorry, but I had to guffaw watching Nava ride off into the sunshine, but what else could he have done? There was no one with whom he could sit in front of the fire and shar a glass of wine since Irene probably went home to her husband every night.
Gema will only serve out the rest of Carlos' term, but I have a feeling she will make a run for the presidency on her own. The only drawback to her winning is how a macho society (and their women) will feel about voting for her. Times are a changin', Mexico. You may be next up to really elect a woman.
There was no way Paola could have been allowed to remain alive. She would always be a danger and a threat to Paulina and the rest. She took the right way out. Someone shooting her would have been a let down.
Everything else was wrapped up in a pretty bow. It's about the best we can ask for these days. I'm glad I watched it, glad it's over and it was the perfect number of episodes--didn't lose my interest by going on too long with beanie-needing contrivances.
On to Cuna. See you folks there.
Ria: Thank you very much for the recap & I watched the Gran Final from start to finish. Just as I had predicted, Carlos & Paulina ended up together, it was inevitable.
Plus, I wasn't shocked Gema became President on Interim Basis to finish out Carlos' term, did they even specify when he became President ?
Anita: I was GLAD that Paola offed herself. That girl was a danger to Paulina & everyone else.
I do agree with you that Gema is likely running for the Presidency on her own too. I mean, it was pretty obvious she would wind up living at Los Pinos in the end.
Plus, I wasn't shocked Gema became President on Interim Basis to finish out Carlos' term, did they even specify when he became President ?
Anita: I was GLAD that Paola offed herself. That girl was a danger to Paulina & everyone else.
I do agree with you that Gema is likely running for the Presidency on her own too. I mean, it was pretty obvious she would wind up living at Los Pinos in the end.
Anita - good to see you popping in and glad that you stuck with LU through the end! Yes, it did keep us interested over these 25 episodes. I agree with you that Nava's riding off into (not really) sunset was somewhat cheesy. Indeed - nothing else left for him to do. Sill very nice to have all the major loose ends tied. Pretty bow is about all we can ask, well said!
Steve - hopefully Gema will end up getting a presidency for the next term - she looks like she'd be great at it!
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Steve - hopefully Gema will end up getting a presidency for the next term - she looks like she'd be great at it!
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