Needless to say for the rest of my researching, I had to cover my eyes and peer through the cracks in my fingers to make sure the web page I was looking at was a safe zone ( AKA a place free of spoilers). I already knew the ending, but I was going to make darn sure that I did not spoil the events between now and then by reading too much. Although this was an unwelcome learning experience, I have to say my strong reaction to the end-ruining information got me thinking--isn't funny how people spend the entire time watching a show trying to predict the ending, yet they actually don't want to know? Watching a telenovela is a very delicate process. We want the details, but there is a process we must endure to gain insight into the plot. If this process moves too quickly, if we miss an episode, or skip to the end via a plot spoiler---we are instantly thrown off balance- and we don't like it.
Watching a telenovela takes patience and dedication. I have sat for hours so far watching my telenovela. I have sat through tortuous break up scenes and tragic death scenes in order to earn my right of passage to the finale of the episode. In a way, I feel like I have been cheated as the ending was just throw in my face--no warning..no nothing. This also goes to show how much technology affects the telenovela. Twenty-five years ago the only way a telenovela would be spoiled for someone is if a heartless friend or family member gave the ending away. Now a days, with the Internet spilling over with information we have to tread softly and carefully in order to maintain the mystery of the telenovela...
In any case, I am currently trying to forget that I saw the ending...I am hoping if enough time goes by I can push it way, way back into brain storage...and go into the final season untainted. Ya, ya I know...fat chance.
Oh man, SPOILERS.
ReplyDeleteIt is so funny you mention this, while I was researching Alma Pirata I ran across the ending of my telenovela too. It wasn't in bold letters, but as soon as I realized what is was it was over. I couldnt help but scroll down and let my mouth hang open as I read an end that involves a time machine, a magic jewel, and a prophecy. It was too far out. In fact, it made me not want to watch the rest of the novela.
You are right, watching a telenovela is a commitment. It requires patience. Maybe if i had watched it through, the time machine would make more sense, or be more acceptable in that certain context. But no: i had to read the spoiler.
Next time I'll have more self control!