ASIANOVELAS

I’m back in the Asianovela bandwagon, not that I wasn’t hesitant to admit it at first. See, I was into Asianovelas late in highschool up until my college days. It’s acceptable then,’ coz I was a teenager and I have a lot of time to spend watching t.v. and being idealistic in romance stories. But when I started to work, I shifted my attention to just work and haven’t got the time to wathch asianovelas anymore. Recently though, I was so stressed and incidentally, I’ve learned of this new Korean series Boys Over Flowers and tried to watch it, and instantly, it became a daily habit and a great was of relieving my stress ‘coz I enjoyed watching it. Since I’ve finished it, I have watched 2 other series, Love or Bread and Devil Beside Me. I’m really enjoying watching this series and I can’t help but look back on my favorite asianovelas through the years. Here’s a short list of my favorites:






METEOR GARDEN – THE ONE. Yes, this Taiwanese drama series was the one that started the asianovela craze. The Dao Ming Si - San Chai - Wa Xi Lei love triangle is superb mix of comedy, tragedy, action, drama and most especially romance. It introduced a fresh concept in local tv series because of it’s pacing, storyline, character presentation and ideas so different from telenovelas aired on Philippine tv that time. I can still remember the catch phrase from the promotions for this series in which they promise that the viewers will get hooked into this. I doubted it from the very beginning, but was really curious if it’s really worth watching so I watched the initial episode. And after that, as they say, the rest is history. I was really hooked into this. I even attended the 3 concerts held here featuring F4 together with a college friend of mine. I was lucky to have someone who had the same craziness as me when it comes to this show! (hehehe) I witnessed first hand the F4 fever that infected millions of filipinos and other asians at that time ‘coz I was one of them. The series ended years ago but it’s still not completely forgotten and I honestly don’t think it ever will be. And even though different versions have emerged and there’s constant comparison as to which version is better, the fact still remains that Meteor Garden is the original and pioneer for Asianovelas here, and if it wasn’t for their success, the other versions and other series wouldn’t exist! When it comes to asianovelas, this is my first love.





LOVERS IN PARIS – CLASSIC ROMANCE. Another love triangle but this time, the characters are older and more mature. The combination of simple minded Vivien and pure business attitude of Carlo, with a little bad-ass character ofHim is enough to make the show interesting. Honestly, my initial reaction seeing the teasers for this show is that I wouldn’t like it much ‘coz the characters seems a little mature for me. But boy, was I wrong, because this Koreanovela made me realize that a show’s story is like a person’s personality.- you’ll appreciate it as you try to get to know it; while as for the characters/actors, is like a person’s physical appearance, it will be the first thing to attract you but if there’s little personality behind the beauty, it would be uninteresting, and thankfully, both the story and the actors were great! The ending wasn’t what I hoped it would be, and it’s quite confusing and even frustrating, ‘coz not only is it open-ended, it also changes the whole story of the series. Still, it’s one of my favorites ‘coz it blended reality and fairy tale romance so well.




SAVE THE LAST DANCE FOR ME – SWEET SENTIMENTS. I honestly can’t remember the full details of this series ‘coz it’s been quite a while since I last saw this Korean drama series. Nevertheless, I didn’t forget the reason why I loved this series and that’s why I included this in my short list of favorites. Watching the whole show is like listening to a sweet ballad, with the story focusing on the two main character’s love for each other and trying to defy the odds for their relationship to survive. It’s one of the most sentimental stories I’ve watched and it showcases that the greater strength is not in physical terms but in the emotional state. Sandy, the female protagonist, looked frail and fragile but the way she handled her problems like losing her father and the man she loves is really heartbreaking and inspiring as well. Francis’ struggle with his memory loss and confusion on his feelings towards Sandy can easily get the sympathy of the viewers. This series’ simplicity and the romance’s sincerity are it’s endearing factors.



ONLY YOU – SIMPLY DELICIOUS. From the storyline, to the cast, this series is like a great dish you just can’t get enough of. The love triangle between Jonathan, Jillian and TJ is something to watch for because all are trying to make sense of their situation made more complicated because of circumstances such as working together and trying to get the love they want and deserve knowing that somehow, someone will be hurt. The show’s concept to connect food and love have been used in other movies and series but Only You made it more appetizing by giving the viewers characters which can easily be empathize with and a story that showcases how love can be bittersweet.





SWEET I8 – FAIRLY PRETTY . This is the only series that I’ve watched religiously in cable tv, in its original version (meaning not yet dubbed in Filipino and with only English subtitle.) It all started with channel surfing one time during summer vacation. I was looking for something new to watch and I stumbled upon this show upon seeing Actor and noticing it has an English subtitle. I started to watch and only realized that I watched the whole 1 hour show when the credits rolled up. After that, I was watching it night after night at 11 pm – 12 mn on the Korean channel on cable. The age gap is the main dilemma between the two characters, young and energetic Female and serious and professional Male. So different in their personalities yet very much the same when it comes to their views about love, family and traditions. It has it shares of funny and dramatic moments, but what attracted me the most is its fresh approach on romance between two people with different age group. I guess this Korean series reiterates the saying that when it comes to love, age is but a number.






MY GIRL – SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL. Even though the overall story of this Korean series is funny and light, the dramatic scenes were greatly delivered as well. This series has a great acting ensemble, plus add great chemistry from Julian and Jasmine, mix with a nice storyline – and there, you have it, an instant Korean series favorite. It’s one of my favorite because it always makes me smile and even giggle at times, especially scenes between the two main lead. The character of Jasmine doesn’t only revolve being the love interest of Julian but also explores her persona as an industrious and loving daughter while Julian’s character explores his struggle to be the man he wants to be and the man his grandfather needs him to be.










IT STARTED WITH A KISS and THEY KISSED AGAIN – CUTE CHEMISTRY. The two lead characters in this Taiwanese series (Ariel Lin and Joe Cheng) really have a natural chemistry, and you can’t help but fall in love with them even though it seems that they’re too opposite. Their love story is funny, simple but with some complications and of course, romantic in a cute way. What made it more loveable is the supporting characters’ crazy personalities and funny approach to life’s little problems. Though I don’t totally agree with how Michael treats Ginnie and how Ginnie allowed herself to be totally devoted to Michael, I still adore their romantic scenes and love them as a couple.






PRINCESS HOURS – ROYAL ROMANCE. A Cinderella story with a twist – the story of a prince falling in love with a commoner – after they got married. The story can be traced to two main roots - keeping of promises and true love. Because of the old king’s promise to a commoner friend, an arranged marriage ensued among their grandchildren – Prince Gian and wannabe artist Janelle. And despite of so many complications to their relarionship, Janelle and Gian proved that a love can survive numerous hardships if it’s true. Though the core of this Korean series is about the love story of Gian and Janelle, it also tackles other kinds of love such as love for family, love for friends and love for country. I’m really glad that like a traditional fairytale, it ended on a happy note.




SPRING WALTZ – SOOTHINGLY CALM. Among those on the list, this is the most dramatic. This series’ approach to the love story of A and B is so serious that I can’t remember any funny or light moments. I almost thought that it would end in tragedy, but thankfully, it still had a happy ending. In a weird way, I think I was attracted to this series because of it’s gloominess. The characters never seem to cease in having problems except in the final episode, and there’s a lot of tragedies that happened such as the dying without getting the forgiveness he’s asking from his son. And just reminiscing it made me sad, but still, I really like this asianovela because it’s more realistic and less idealistic when it comes to love but still emphasizing that true love can survive all of life’s challenges.






BOYS OVER FLOWERS – WHOLLY GREAT. From the story, to the characters/actors, the locations and props, this show excels. The original story is already superbly done, but the Korean version made it even better by giving more depth to the other characters other than the 3 main leads – Geum Jan Di, Gu Jun Pyo and Ji Hoo. Thanks to the 4 actors who played the infamous foursome, F4 Fever is back and another Asianovela phenomenon was started. Yes, I admit that I’m one of probably millions of fanatics addicted to this show. Even though I love the love story of Jun Pyo and Geum Jan Di, I hate the fact that Ji Hoo’s love life seems like a tragedy. I would have wanted him to have found his true love at the end of the story because he really deserves to be happy. Still, I’m more inclined towards the romance between Yi Jeong and Ga Eul because they look so great together and their pairing simply oozes chemistry. Plus, their story adds freshness and cuteness to that of Jun Pyo and Jan Di. I also love the fact that Jan Di recognizes that Ji Hoo is her soulmate and Jun Pyo is her true love, because I really believe that your soulmate doesn’t necessarily be your true love also and vice-versa. It can be 2 different persons and you’re truly blessed if you found them both. I adore this Korean series! :)



I personally recommend to watch all the series in the list. You may not like all of them but I assure you that you’ll at least find one to your liking and you’ll appreciate Asians even more. :)

Just so you know, in case you didn’t notice, all series on my favorite asianovela list have a happy ending. I love happy endings, and I’m hoping that the day will come when I’ll be able to have that one true love and we’ll have our own romantic story and happy ending. J As for now, I’m enjoying watching, reading, and hearing stories of romance, both in reel and real life. :)

Bestfriend...

This is an open letter to a particular person that's part of my life... I know you'll know this is for you...

Whenever I think of you these days, I can't help but smile then frown, feel happy but also sad...

We've been friends for almost years now, almost half of our lives and we've been through quite a lot already. But lately, I know that you've been really sad, depressed even, and that made me really worried about you. It also made me think that I'm a lame friend for not being able to help you. And for this, please accept my apology.

I'M SORRY. I really am so sorry for not always being there at your side when you're lonely. I know I have to text and call you more often, and it's saddening that I sometimes only become aware of your sadness or your problems after you've already solved it. I know you're strong-willed and very confident, but at times, I really want to comfort you at the least.

I"M SORRY for breaking a promise to your dad. When your dad passed away, I whispered to him during the wake that I will take care and watch over you and your mom, in my own little way. I even reinstated that promise at his burial, while you're trying hard to fight back your tears and I can only watch from afar. I've visited the cemetery just once after that, and until now, have yet to return. Remember when I told you on one of our phone conversation that I want to visit again? - it's because of this promise. I want to apologize again to your dad, this time not onlythrough prayers, but going back to the place I made my promise, saying that I failed until now, but will not give up on you- I won't give up and I can't give up- on you.

I'M SORRY for the times that I failed miserably to be by your side when you badle needed someone to talk to, or to cry with. There are times, during our phone-ins, that when we talk about our problems and miseries in life, I just want to hold your hand, and even hug you, just to assure that eventually, things will fall into their places and you'll be happy again.

I'M SORRY for being insensitive sometimes, for talking instead of listening, for being stubborn, for being clueless. I don't know why I suddenly decided to write you, but the sudden thought of my incompetence as a friend struck me, and I just have to express it.

I hope that while you're reading this, you'll feel my sincerity and that by the end, you'll accept my apology. I know I'm being melodramatic and writing this letter is quite out of my comfort zone, but please believe in every single word. Going back twelve years, i still can't remember how we suddenly became friends. As you've said, we're like Yin and Yang. Though we have some similarities, w e have a lot more differences. But somehow, we clicked and been able to survive 12 years bullying each other. Ha! Who would have thought that we'll still be stuck with each other for more that a decade? Hehehe.

Now, as I've stated earlier, whenever I think of you these days, I can't help but smile and frown, be happy and sad at the same time. Happy and smiling, knowing that I'm lucky to have a friend in you; sad and frowning 'coz I know you're unhappy right now. I know that you have one wish you want to be granted badly and even though I don't know exactly it is, I always hope that you'll get it. I include it in my prayers 'coz this wish, according to you, will give you happiness. And I want you and your mom to be happy - BE REALLY HAPPY.

I love you my bestfriend and as cliche as it sounds, I'm always gonna be around for you, whether you like it or not. I'm not eager to break my promise the second time around.

GOD BLESS!

AJA! :P

BE HAPPY! :)

STAY SEXY! ;0

ADDICTED

AAARGGHH!!! Just when I’m almost fully recovered from my Asianovela fascination and addiction, here comes “Boys Over Flowers”. I’m so totally, definitely, truly certified addicted to this t.v. series. In less than one week, I’m hooked and in less than 2 days, I’ve watched the full 25-episode series (with more or less 1 hr per episode)! Just in case you’re wondering how I got addicted, let’s have a little flashback…

About 8 weeks ago, I’ve seen several commercials as regards the latest Asianovela Of ABS-CBN- the Korean’s own version of Japan’s HanaYori Dango and Taiwan’s Meteor Garden- “BOYS OVER FLOWERS”. Being an avid fan of Meteor Garden, my curiosity got ahead of me and was really anxious to watch this. I was glad to know that its airing will be on primetime when I’m home already. Then came May 11, and from that day, I was infected again by the F4 fever, I’m damned!

Monday(May 11) – My family and I watched the pilot episode. Then and there on our living room in front of the t.v. set, we knew that watching the show will be part of our daily habit.

Tuesday(May 12) – On the second day, I quickly accepted the fact that I really,REALLY LIKE the show. Still, I was in denial that it was LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT. I’m determined not to succumb again to my Asianovela addiction.

Wednesday(May 13) – I’m SO HOOKED!!!

Thursday(May 14) – It’s confirmed. I’m GOING GAGA if I missed an episode.

Friday (May 15) – Might as well call it fright day because what I fear most (as to the show) came true. I’m getting fidgety and hot tempered when they didn’t air it on its given timeslot. I convinced myself that maybe one of its predecessors took overtime so its timeslot was adjusted. 11 pm came and it’s official- there’s no BOF for the day. To make it worse, the network announced that they’ll put BOF on an earlier timeslot – which means I won’t be able to watch it anymore!!! I CAN’T TAKE IT ANYMORE!!!That’s the final straw. I’LL FIND A WAY to watch it BY HOOK OR BY CROOK!


Saturday until Sunday (May 16-17) - I went out to buy a present for a debut I’ll be attending later in the afternoon. When I passed by at Carriedo- BAM! My problem found a solution = pirated DVD. (Sorry Mr. Edu Manzano, but I HAVE TO HAVE BOYS OVER FLOWER DVD desperately.) In a span of 5 days, being able to watch it has become a NEED and not merely a WANT anymore. So I asked my “suki” for a copy and she told me there were no copies left ‘coz it’s selling like pancakes! I tried to look for another copy and was about to panic when, tada, another stall had a delivery of 5 DVDs of BOF. I was just about to approach when the vendor quickly handed me a copy. In a blink of an eye, the other 4 copies were gone. At that moment, I was slightly dazzled by what happened. Am I that obvious? Here I am just walking in front of their stall and haven’t even started to ask, then came this delivery and the vendor quickly giving me a copy, no questions asked. Me being me, I didn’t get the DVD right away, instead I browsed other asianovelas. A minute later, I picked up the copy and asked the vendor if he’ll recommend BOF and what’s it about. He gave a look that tells me “You don’t know BOF?” and quicky replied that it’s great and is their bestseller. So I bought it, along with “DEVIL BESIDE ME” and went home. I went to the party later and when I got home, there’s one thing left for me to do…WATCH!!! And boy did I watch, from 10 pm – 5:30 am, slept for about 3 hrs, by 9 am I’m glued again to the t.v. up until 6:30 pm , went to the church, then finally at 10 pm – 12:30 am, watched it until the end.


So back to present, here I am, stressed out due to lack of sleep and still can’t get BOYS OVER FLOWERS out of my head. AAARRGHH!!!! Now, I’m blogging about this just to look if it can help ease my anxiety…not working – still addicted – I’m DAMNED.

F4 FEVER IS BACK.

O.M.G.

Garfield

If there’s a cartoon character that I can call my ultimate favorite, it would be none other than Garfield. If my memory serves me right, my so-called affection for him started when I was in elementary when an aunt gave us Garfield stuff toys. He’s really cute and he’s so unlike hello kitty which is really for “girly girls” (no offense to hello kitty fans). And then after some time, the Garfield cartoon series was shown in tv which resulted in me loving Garfield more! J In just a few episodes, he won me over through his sarcasm and witty punchlines. He stood out among the many cartoon characters because he isn’t perfectly nice (in fact quite the opposite), nor trying to be funny by acting dumb nor deliver the usual slapsticks commonly used in cartoons (e.g. Looney Tunes). I’d say that his imperfections made him lovable. And in some funny and sometimes embarrassing moments, I find myself relating to his sarcasm, pessimism, laziness and even gluttony for lasagna.

I think it’s obvious that Garfield isn’t exactly a role model for kids, nor do I think he was created for kids. In my p.o.v., hr somehow represents teenage angst and young adults’ frustration. But still, Garfield teaches us some life lessons if we just look closely and beyond his sarcastic remarks…

Some of Garfield’s Words of Wisdom:

“We all get heavier as we get older because there’s a lot more information in our heads. So I’m not fat, I’m just really intelligent and my head couldn’t hold anymore so it started filling up the rest of me! That’s my story and I’m sticking to it!”


“Diet is Die with a ‘t”

“The most active thing about me is my imagination!”

“If you want to look thinner, hang around people fatter than you. "

"Money is not everything. There‘s Mastercard & Visa."

"Your future depends on your dreams." So go to sleep.

"Hard work never kills anybody. But why take the risk?"

"The sooner we make a schedule, the faster we get behind."

Cheers, GARFIELD! :)

February

Question: What’s the reason why it took me a while to write my follow-up blog:
a. I can’t think of anything to write
b. Just plain lazy
c. Quite busy
d. None of the above

*Well, the answer my friend is ….(drum roll pls.) D. Yup, none of the above because as shameful as it is, the reason is that I’ve forgotten my username and password…hehehe. Kinda weird, but if you’ve read my first entry, and knowing the reason for this blogsite, it’s quite understandable.

But anyways, I want to dedicate my second blog to the month of February – the “love month”. I’m in a musical mood, and all of a sudden, it struck me that I should list down some songs for the love month. So here’s my short lists of love songs to brighten or darken your mood this February and I hope you’ll find at least one that will suit your mood. J

For Those Who Are Heartbroken…
1) I’ll Never Get Over You Getting Over Me
2) All Out Of Love
3) I’ll Be Over You
4) How Could An Angel Break My Heart
5) Insensitive

For Those Who are Looking For Love…
1) Where is He/She?
2) Get Me
3) Someday We’ll Know
4) It Might Be You
5) Realize

For Those Who Have Recovered/ Is Recovering from an ended relationship
1) I Will Survive
2) Irreplaceable
3) Survivor
4) So Yesterday
5) So What

For Those Who Are Head Over Heels In Love…
1) Truly,Madly,Deeply
2) Forever
3) Angel Of Mine
4) A Very Special Love
5) I'm Yours

For those Who Are in Awe of Someone
1) Crush
2) Crush On You
3) T-Shirt
4) Bizaare Love triangle
5) Lovefool

And the (music and heart) beat goes on………

Whim

Whim - n. 1. A sudden or capricious idea; a passing fancy. 2. Arbitrary thought or impulse. 3. My main reason for creating this blogsite thus the title of my first blog.I'm not sure what I'm getting myself into. I have created this blog out of whim and out of curiosity. I'm not planning to tell everyone or anyone (with the exception of my bestfriend) about my blogsite so it would probably be just the two of us who'll read my blogs. Which is really just fine as I'm rarely online anyways. Like I said, this is just a whim but who knows, maybe I'll learn to enjoy this as time passses by... if I'm not busy. I have no idea what will I be posting next or when but whoever is reading this, I hope you'll read my next one. I'm not promising anything interesting, just try to read it if you don't have anything else to do hehehe.

BTW, I've just reposted this blog from my first blogsite which I can't reopen due to forgotten password. ..hehehe, so I decided to just create a new one. :)

Oh well, how do I end this?...I'll probably do this the old fashion way...though rest assured there will be other blogs in the future...

The End.