Otalia’s Big Purple Dreams Becomes a Beautiful Dream
The Otalia storyline is the personification of an Agnes Nixon quote, which one of my brothers shared with me many years ago:
Make ‘em laugh, make ‘em cry, make ‘em wait.
If the week of May 4 was about making us laugh, making us cry, and making us wait, then the week of May 11 continued down that path. The intensity Guiding Light has provided with the Otalia story line shifted slightly, yet the writers managed to maintain the proper balance of Agnes Nixon’s approach for soaps for this week. That said, if the May 11 episode was the calm, then the May 12 episode was the storm.
The Calm
The relaxing cocoon of the spa has done wonders for Olivia and Natalia’s comfort level around each other. I want to believe all of the mud baths, massages, manicures/pedicures, and hiking contributed to their relaxed states. However, I pinpoint their ease with each other after their (non-physical) lovemaking from the May 5 and May 6 episodes. Since then, Olivia and Natalia have been able to reclaim some of their familiar comfort as friends and obtain some new comfort in being together as a potential couple.
The opening scene for the May 11 episode provided clear evidence of that familiar yet new level of comfort for the pair. A perfect example is Olivia’s expressive body language after she and Emma returned from their manicure/pedicure treatments. Olivia’s sexy, sashaying hip motion when she entered the room was another one of those subtle yet not so subtle siren calls towards Natalia. Still, I viewed Olivia’s body language as an interesting combination of two things. She was definitely sending out the siren call, but she was also releasing the joyful, loving energy that she has for Natalia. Olivia is just so happy to be in love and to have that love returned that her body cannot contain it. The love is positively radiating from Olivia in every way, especially when she agrees with Emma’s statement about missing Natalia. As for Natalia, she released the big guns again with those dimples by smiling affectionately and gazing lovingly at Olivia with those soulful brown eyes of hers. No wonder Olivia melts into puddles around Natalia because even I notice the compelling tug of those dimples and her expressive eyes.
The interactions between Olivia, Emma, and Natalia refocused the lens on the family atmosphere for this story line. I loved watching Olivia and Natalia’s reactions from the things Emma said. I found myself smiling as Emma (aka mini-Olivia) tried to manipulate her way back to the farmhouse by saying that the hotel was not really a home. I noticed Natalia’s face after Emma expressed her sentiments about the farmhouse. There was love, yearning, and a feeling of absence coming from Natalia. It’s obvious that Natalia misses their presence at the farmhouse, and I don’t think she realized how much she did until Emma’s statement. If there was one positive outcome to Emma’s “purple blocking” appearance at their spa getaway, it is showing that Emma is one of the ingredients that brought Olivia and Natalia together in this new way. Therefore, I am starting to think Emma showing up unexpectedly was a good thing (as frustrating as I found it initially).
It was nice to see that Natalia and Olivia’s familiar yet new comfort level around each other continued when Emma left them alone in the room. I did not detect any of the unease they had when they planned their getaway and arrived at the spa. It seems they have resolved how to behave around each other in this phase of their relationship. They were able to talk openly and directly to each other without the awkwardness of previous weeks. In fact, Olivia and Natalia were able to reclaim some of the fun and relaxed ease associated with being friends. The loving friendship layer to their relationship has a new layer with their romantic love. Natalia and Olivia are clearly becoming more accepting and comfortable with being in love. The moment where they discussed their feelings was another pivotal step towards them becoming a couple. Natalia and Olivia were able to express why they love each other without feeling ashamed, hesitant, or self-conscious for the first time. When watching those scenes, I was most impressed with how easily Natalia was able to tell Olivia why she loved her.
While it has been a struggle for both women, I have watched how difficult it has been for Natalia to accept, admit, and get to a place where she felt good about her feelings for Olivia. Obviously, Natalia’s religious beliefs played a huge role in why her feelings have been such an internal battleground. Nonetheless, Natalia is noticeably working through her conflict based on how comfortably she expressed her feelings. I watched Olivia’s face when Natalia spoke about why she loved her. I think Olivia is starting to believe more than ever that Natalia can handle a romantic relationship with her and that it won’t ruin Natalia’s life like she fears. I still believe Olivia is a bit unsure; however, I feel she is noticing the evolution and efforts Natalia has made over the past few weeks.
As I have stated before, Olivia hasn’t been one to hide her feelings for Natalia over the past few months. Olivia has worn her feelings on her sleeve and her face, yet she always did so in an angst-filled way. Since the Otalia love confession, it is wonderful to watch Olivia express how much she loves Natalia and to do so in such a blissful manner. I can hear it in the gentleness of her words and see it in her facial expressions. Once again, I find it astonishing to watch, which makes me feel happy whenever I watch Olivia. The love she has for Natalia is so all consuming that it’s seeping from her pores. I saw firsthand just how much of an effect Natalia has on Olivia in the May 11 episode. When Natalia grabbed her hand while they were sitting on the bed, Olivia’s face morphed from an easy smile to an expression of outright love and longing.
It is apparent that Natalia has the ability to push Olivia’s buttons with the simplest of gestures. To reiterate, I don’t have the long history with Olivia’s character, but I am going with another gut instinct by saying Olivia has had the sexual power over everyone she’s been involved with in the past. When it comes to Natalia, Olivia is getting a taste of her own medicine right now. I am going with my instincts again by saying Natalia has the sexual power over Olivia at this phase. Even though Natalia was captured and released from Olivia’s net during the infamous hotel door scene, I believe Natalia has been the one calling out to Olivia with her own yet subtle siren call. Additionally, I don’t think Natalia is completely aware of the sexual power she has over Olivia. I have watched how Olivia continues to be affected first by simple touches of affection from Natalia. When Olivia becomes aware of Natalia in a sexual way, I watch how Natalia is always sexually aware after Olivia. I think this is because Olivia seems to be very sensitive and hyper aware of Natalia. I have also noticed that Natalia is acknowledging silently that she is conscious of Olivia’s awareness. Natalia has a way of alerting me that she knows what her touch is doing with those quick but telling glances towards Olivia before her gaze drops away. With these two characters, I would expect it to be the other way around by having Natalia deeply affected by Olivia’s sexual pull; that is not how the writers are writing these characters right now. This scenario is another one of those role reversal moments that I am noticing and enjoying with the evolution of these characters.
I also noticed something significant with Otalia during the May 11 episode. I am referring to their dialog over the “Beautiful Dream” nail polish. The name of the nail polish might seem insignificant, but believe me it’s not. I caught the reference to the “dreaming really big dreams and they would all be purple” dialog from Otalia’s New Year’s Eve episode. Olivia, Natalia, and Emma were at the farmhouse where they proclaimed that 2009 would be a year filled with big purple dreams. Well, those big purple dreams have transformed into a “beautiful dream” with the second act of the Otalia story line. I don’t know if Jill Lorie Hurst wrote the “beautiful dream” lines as a direct throwback to the big purple dreams dialog, but I absolutely loved it. I caught that reference the first time I saw the May 11 episode, and the writer inside of me lit up at the cleverness and care with the dialog. Whether or not the dialog was purposeful (I think so), I continue to applaud Jill Lorie Hurt’s writing for Otalia. I love this kind of careful consideration with dialog, and it pushes my buttons as a soap fan and writer.
When Olivia and Natalia packed for their return to Springfield, some of the grey storm clouds started to gather and block the light; nevertheless, there were a few rays of sunshine.
Sunshine
I loved Olivia’s energetic “ink pen salute” when she started to fill out the spa’s survey. I was chuckling at this scene. I had a moment where I felt she was going to break out into an Argentine Tango or Pase Doble at any second. Additionally, I appreciate the attention to detail by having Olivia fill out the survey. She is a hotel owner, and it makes sense for her to do that.
I enjoyed how the writers have evolved the “two separate conversations” dialog that Otalia has had in the past. Before the Otalia love confession, Olivia and Natalia never clarified when the other person interpreted what they were saying in the wrong context. After the Otalia love confession, they are both clearing up any misunderstandings by addressing it immediately. This might be a simple example, but the May 11 episode involving the spa survey is another instance where they are clearing up the “two separate conversations” exchanges.
Grey Clouds
All of the issues I have mentioned in a previous post finally surfaced between Olivia and Natalia. These issues concerned their children, their coworkers, and the people of Springfield and how they still have that aspect to deal with as a potential couple. As I would see later on the May 12 episode, Natalia would be the first to deal with some of those issues.
A Few Rays of Sunlight Poking Through the Grey Clouds
Olivia and Natalia agreed that no matter what happens they would be friends. As a viewer, I want that aspect of their relationship to remain. Their friendship is one of the things I love about Olivia and Natalia because it is a key factor in their love for each other. The May 11 dialog and scenes relieved some of my fears that Otalia’s light is not dimming. I heard that need for reassurance from Olivia again when she asked Natalia if they would sort out their future and take that step (consciously) over the threshold (as a couple). It was very encouraging to hear them reaffirm they would figure out their feelings together. My only concern is Natalia’s “one step forward, two steps back” dance. I didn’t see any of that dialog from Natalia the week of May 11; however, I still think she’s going to be wearing her dancing shoes a little while longer. I will get to my point on that later.
Right before they leave the spa, Olivia received a call, which resulted in her leaving for San Francisco to help Ava (her daughter). After arranging for Emma to stay with Natalia while she’s away, Olivia said her goodbyes to Natalia at the spa. This final Otalia scene was filled with tenderness and love. It’s apparent in the way Olivia places her hand in Natalia’s and the way Natalia rubs her finger on Olivia’s hand. Their smiles, gazes, and dialog also display their love and newfound comfort with each other. Natalia’s statement that their lives were integrated in the most pleasant of ways resonated deeply with me. Olivia and Natalia go hand in hand, just like bananas and pancakes.
The Storm
While Natalia has been the calming eye for Hurricane Olivia the past several months, I feel Natalia may need to reserve some of that calmness for herself. The May 12 episode kicked things off with a mild but pleasant storm called Emma Spaulding. I really enjoyed watching Emma rip a page from her mother’s playbook when she tried to maneuver her way back “home.” Emma’s revelations where she expressed how much loves having both her moms are wearing down Natalia’s defenses. I could see that Emma’s words were having another impact as I watched Natalia’s facial expressions. Emma is lovable and sweet, and no one can resist “jellybeans” forever, especially when she says, “Please!” the way that she does. I believe Emma’s presence at the farmhouse will make Natalia realize she wants them back home, too. Unfortunately, coming back home to Springfield added some additional pressure, stress, and pain for Natalia. The storm clouds really took shape and organized into two new hurricanes – Buzz and Doris.
When Natalia ran into Buzz while shopping, I had a feeling their conversation was not going to be a good one. After all, Natalia did hurt his son Frank by leaving him at the altar. I felt Natalia’s apology to Buzz was genuine and sincere. She never intended to hurt Frank or the Cooper family. Natalia’s denial about loving Olivia is what put her in an awkward, messy, and painful situation with the Coopers. Olivia’s encouragement in marrying Frank would have never worked if Natalia had stopped living in denial much earlier. Natalia’s religious background and denial is what pushed her within inches of marrying a man she did not love. She just couldn’t forsake all others as she started repeating her marriage vows, and I would rather for Natalia to wake up to her feelings later than never. While I could understand Buzz being upset with Natalia’s behavior, he took a page from Frank’s playbook by guilt tripping her – a trait that apparently runs in the Cooper family. Natalia has enough on her plate without Buzz’s condemnation. She doesn’t need second servings of guilt, pain, and stress. Natalia hasn’t been able to clear her plate from the first serving. Buzz laid the guilt and disappointment on rather thickly, and I watched Natalia break down a bit more with every word he slung in her direction. This was most evident when Buzz indicated that she followed her heart all the way to the altar and then pretended it didn’t happen. I think Natalia’s admission that she isn’t pretending anymore should have triggered what Buzz already knows deep down. Since early April, I felt Buzz knew that Olivia had feelings for Natalia. I think he also knew that Natalia wasn’t ready for marriage because of Olivia, which explains some of the things he said to Frank in the past (about Natalia). Based on that, I found Buzz’s statement about her following her heart to the altar confusing after I re-watched it several times. I don’t think Buzz was being sarcastic when he made that statement because he asked Natalia to give Frank another chance moments earlier. All I have to say to Buzz is this: you earned your namesake of “Buzz” by being a buzz kill. All of Natalia’s relaxation from her spa retreat evaporated after her discussion with Buzz. He managed to leave her with some heavy food for thought by telling her to think before she jumps in next time. It was sound advice, which might be prophetic in her dealings with Olivia from this point forward. After I watched this scene, my heart ached for Natalia because hurting people isn’t something she handles well. I think Natalia is the kind of person who lives with a little bit of pain in her heart whenever she unintentionally hurts someone. When Buzz left her knee-deep (literally) in sadness, I felt she could have used a hug. It was unfortunate that Emma or Olivia wasn’t around to give her that human comfort that she sorely needed.
Natalia’s safe haven of the farmhouse did not provide her with much peace of mind. Natalia was obviously still very shaken and stirred by her conversation with Buzz, and Doris’ unexpected visit came at a bad time. The resulting guilt, pressure, and stress Buzz laid on her were evident when she was talking to Doris. I could see it in Natalia’s facial expressions, and I could hear it in the nervousness of her voice. Of course, I agreed with Doris’ assessment that the reality of any decisions Natalia and Olivia made was sinking in for the first time. The acceptance Natalia felt about her potential romantic relationship with Olivia was tested in the May 12 episode. I watched how defensive she became when Doris referenced Natalia’s decision to come out. While Natalia has acceptance about loving Olivia, it is clear she still needs to work on accepting how people will look at her, and she needs to learn how to be comfortable with it. As I have indicated before, Natalia is still working on reconciling her feelings for Olivia with her religion. She will get around to dealing with people’s perceptions; it’s just going to take some time. Everything regarding her feelings for Olivia is still so new and confusing to her; the same applies to Olivia’s feelings to Natalia. Keeping that in mind, I wasn’t too concerned with Natalia’s reactions when she was talking to Doris. Again, I foresee more of Natalia’s “two steps back, one step forward” approach when dealing with Olivia. Nevertheless, when I consider everything that has happened since returning to Springfield, it is understandable if Natalia did the “two steps back, one step forward” dance again.
With all of the pressure on Natalia’s shoulders, it was not surprising that she would want to turn to Olivia for strength and comfort. I think she wanted to reclaim some of the peace and confidence she had with Olivia at the spa, so I thought it was very fitting for Natalia to call Olivia. When I watched that scene, I felt that this was another interesting role reversal with the Natalia and Olivia characters. Of course, Olivia being the strong one is a part of who she has been since I have been watching. However, Natalia has always been that calming eye of the storm for Olivia. The May 12 episode placed that calming eye on Olivia for a change since Natalia was dealing with strong, potentially damaging hurricane force winds. This final scene provided yet another aspect of Otalia’s yin yang relationship. Considering I see more storms ahead, they must hunker down and rely on their yin yang relationship to survive. Fortunately, bad weather never lasts. The sunlight that is Otalia always breaks through the grey clouds.
I would like to acknowledge the effort Guiding Light continues to put forth with Otalia-related scenes in particular. I noticed the color coordination between Olivia, Natalia, and Emma’s clothing and the color scheme of the spa on the May 11 episode. The blue, yellow, green, and pink colors for their scenes reminded me again that watching them is like standing in a field of flowers; it’s just a beautiful experience. I also realized that Emma’s wardrobe (the pink shirt and blue sun visor) on the May 11 episode was a throwback to the wardrobe Olivia wore on May 5 episode; Olivia wore a blue jacket an pink pants. This attention to detail continued on the May 12 episode when I noticed Natalia and Emma were wearing coordinating green and yellow colors, which matched the flowers on the table and the kitchen’s color scheme. I must confess that I am really appreciating what I’m seeing with the coordinating colors. I feel like Guiding Light is showing me (visually) that this phase of Otalia is different from the pre-Otalia love confession. If so, then I want to say to the Guiding Light that I am noticing and loving the differences.
In closing, I just want to say a few more things to Guiding Light (if someone there is reading this post). I am going to speak straight from the heart right now, and I really want you to “feel” what I am about to say. It is amazing to me just how much I love the show. In fact, I have not had this much love for a soap opera in many years, and my love for your show probably rivals Otalia’s love for each other. I pay attention to everything you do in a way that I haven’t done with any other soap opera…ever. I finally realized it wasn’t just the return to classic soap opera with Otalia and other stories. It was the new production model you are using, which makes me pay attention so closely. I had a hard time dealing with the production model when I started watching in January 2009. I just didn’t recognize the Guiding Light I grew up with as a child and left behind in 1993. I wanted sets. I wanted a traditional format (i.e. music, sets, and camera work) when it comes to my soaps. I couldn’t see your vision. I wasn’t ready for change. Therefore, I focused completely on ignoring the background and focused on the characters because of my resistance to the new model. While I continued struggling over the production model for months, I think I finally started seeing the light (no pun intended) the week of April 13. I was unaware that my brain had started accepting the production model until Olivia and Natalia’s love confessions. It hit me that I was paying attention to the background and not just the foreground involving the characters. Still, I am a stubborn soul sometimes. Just like Natalia had trouble admitting her feelings for Olivia and expressing them aloud, I had the same trouble with your production model. I was thinking to myself, “This model is working for me now,” but the other side of me was still holding on to my wish for some sets like other soaps. For the week of May 11, I was finally able to “say aloud” that your production model is something I can roll with and even appreciate. I still have some minor issues (i.e. the hospital set), but I realized that the storytelling matters more than scenery. Nonetheless, I want you to know that I am noticing the beautiful scenery shots in addition to the storytelling. Thank you for making me unlock that resistant side of my brain and see what you were trying to achieve with the new production model. That said, this model works for you and makes your show unique, which is why I do not want to see your format “swagger jacked” by other soaps. Keep up the great work, and know that you have made this longtime soap fan care deeply and remember why I love soaps. Yes, I stand on “that ledge” when it comes to the state of soap operas these days, but the improvements your show has made gives me hope. Your show’s storytelling truly is the “guiding light” that other soaps should follow. I applaud you. I thank you. I appreciate you.
Note: If you comment and choose to leave a spoiler, please identify it in advance with the word “spoiler,” or even separate it out to alert me that a spoiler is coming. I read everyone’s comments, but if I see the word “spoiler,” I stop reading at that point. Again, I have my process to make the magic happen with these Otalia posts. Thanks everyone for your continued love and support!
Tags: crystal chappell, entertainment, guiding light, jessica leccia, lesbian, natalia, olivia, otalia, review
May 16th, 2009 at 8:18 pm
Brava. Great blog. I have a few observations of my own.
I liked reference to hurricane Buzz and Doris. I saw them as similar foils for Otalia but in a slightly different light.
This lovely story line of love has the traditional angst and problems that any supercouple come up against. Normally the female always seems to be in the position of marrying someone she does not love because who she loves appears to be unavailable. At the last minute the marriage (for the most part) doesn’t take place because she realizes that she can not commit someone she doesn’t love. Of course not only is the groom jilted but the entire family feels insulted/hurt as well. Buzz is the embodiment of the traditional response.
Doris represents the non-traditional problems our couple faces. She raises those issues that Otalia face in being a same-sex couple. Questions about their sexuality, identify, and people whispering behind their backs.
I love how the writers are writing about Olivia as well. She is more experienced sexually than Natalia. Natalia doesn’t seem to have been with anyone other than Gus or Frank. She doesn’t even seem to know the depth of her own sexual nature. I was surprised by her response to having sex with Frank as a “sin”. In many ways I don’t think Natalia has had time to explore this side of herself and Olivia is hyper-aware of this “innocence” that Natalia has and shows sensitivity and patience that I just love.
Many fans want them to just hop into bed. But this is not a 100 yard dash. It is a marathon. Olivia’s courtship of Natalia is just so beautiful. I just don’t have the words but like you I love this storyline and I am looking forward to watching this traditional yet non-traditional love story unfold.
May 16th, 2009 at 8:21 pm
PS
I love your blog. I really enjoy reading your weekly spots.
May 16th, 2009 at 10:58 pm
Your labor of love~ The Otalia posts ~ never disappoint. Thank-you once again for your wonderful insight…I especially love that you stay spoiler free, this brings a perspective that is grounded with the here and now….it frees you to speculate on only what you are viewing…
I look forward to your next week’s post!
Hugs!
May 16th, 2009 at 11:51 pm
I so agree about “love” of this show. There are so many aspects of it, many of which you have mentioned, that bring a good feeling to me when I watch it. I have to watch it all and take in all the quiet bits that most shows don’t bother with.
I also enjoy seeing Olivia and how she clearly shows how in love she is with Natalia. It’s new even though she’s had so many other relationships before. I think a lot of people are smiling watching her.
Thanks for such thoughtful analysis and keep it up.
May 16th, 2009 at 11:57 pm
Hi Hivemind,
I just found the whole experience of reading your piece to be incredibly beautiful and moving. There’s something thrilling about being able to revisit these moments, and really spend time with every gesture and nuance. We know instinctively that there is so much charge and exchange happening whenever these two are in the same room together, and with so much of it unspoken, there sometimes feels like there’s not enough brain/emotional space to process it all, particularly the first time through.
Of course, if we could spend as much time processing our own relationships as we can these scenes (who doesn’t want a replay/rewind button in real life), there’s so much to be had in our daily interactions that I wish we could be just as appreciative. Now I find myself trying to figure out a way to try and leave work early so I can just go home and embrace my girl.
Otalia is a love story, but your writing about them also feels like a love story all on its own, unfolding in its own time, making us feel like we’re falling in love all over again. Simply beautiful.
May 17th, 2009 at 12:01 am
What a thoughtful and thorough review! I continue to be impressed by your attention to detail and writing skills. Thank you!
May 17th, 2009 at 12:20 am
Again this was another great commentary on the week’s Otalia events.
I love how Ellen Wheeler and Jill Lorrie Hurst are creating this wonderful romantic dance between Olivia and Natalia. In one scene we see Olivia taking the lead, and in the next we see Natalia. That happens so often in relationships. For a healthy relationship there needs to be a balanced pitch and catch. My hubby and I have been married for nearly 15 years and we have a balance of pitching and catching. Some days I take the dominant role in our marriage, while other days he does.
Soaps today favor the “insta couples”, where they meet, flirt, fall into bed, and then onto their next conquest in 2-3 weeks. I call it the relationship of the month.
What Otalia storyline is doing is it shows how a relationship develops and unfolds – all relationships have their moments of happiness and moments of angst. We are seeing balance. If Ellen and Jill give us one day where we see the girls happy and enjoying each other’s company, followed by the next day with angst and tension, that would make me very happy.
I love the production model as you don’t see the actors stopping in one spot and giving the dramatic look or line – it’s so campy. In fact, my husband watched another soap doing that and he couldn’t stop laughing. It has a natural feel to it, and it allows the characters to be more human.
Keep up with the good work!
May 17th, 2009 at 12:56 am
That was just perfect! Great write-up and deciphering of the Otalia goodness of the week past. Reading your thoughts, I just had to go back & watch the eppies again to pick out all the finer deets you pointed out… I didnt think it was possible but you made me enjoy the eppies evem more – Thank you for that! I look forward to next weeks comments!
May 17th, 2009 at 3:34 am
Thank you for another beautiful piece! I love how you manage to analyse all the details and put words to what I’m thinking.
May 17th, 2009 at 8:03 am
Simply the best written, best analysis, of Otalia on the Net. I look forward to each entry almost as much as I do Otalia days on GL. Thank you for the time, effort and love you put into each blog entry.
May 17th, 2009 at 1:04 pm
Thanks again for another great article!!! I could barely get through the second paragraph, and I mean that it the absolute best way possible!! The way you wrote about Liv and her siren song and hips..lordy lordy be still my heart!!
I also loved the coordinating colors on all 3 of the girls!! very beautiful!! (of course just seeing Nat in anything but black is a welcome change!). The women were absolutely radiant in their outfits, and I agree that it does signify a change in their feelings towards each other and their relationship. As you said, they are sooooo much more comfortable with each other!!
And Jill Lorie Hurst blew me out of the water with the “how do I love thee, let me count the ways” scene!! did not see that coming, especially after all the “friends” conversations and the 2 steps Nat has been performing! So relaxed and casual, yet intense and romantic and a major step forward in their relationship! And if Nat keeps grabbing Liv’s hand like that, hurricane Liv is going to reach category 5 any day now!!
and Buzz kill Cooper! man, I can understand his being upset, but to ask Nat to give Frank another chance was truly shocking.. he knew she wasn’t happy getting married!! and you are right, he knows about Liv’s feelings so 2 + 2 = sorry Frank it aint gonna happen! lets all move on Buzz!
Loved Nat saying she wasnt going to pretend any more!!! step forward!!!
The next step forward was Nat opening up to Doris about her and Liv’s weekend away!!! also surprising!
Anyway, thanks again for your fun, insightful and thought provoking words!!!! Its a must see for me every time!!
Have a great Otalia week!!!
May 17th, 2009 at 3:22 pm
Like you, I had a difficult time coming to terms with GL’s overall look. I spent my adolescence watching ABC soaps. I stopped watching Soaps after graduating college…so I was completely unprepared for GL’s production style.
As I’ve become emotionally invested in the SL’s (I came for Otalia but stayed because I grew to love the rest of the show) the aesthetic of the show slowly crept up on me…and now I adore the way GL looks. For me, it was the cemetery confession and gazebo confession that hooked me for good, because if felt real.
Speaking of real, GL seems to go out of their way to give their characters real life problems to deal with. The characters have discussions about mortgage rates (Buzz advising Natalia on her loan) and they worry about paying their bills. It’s rather chewy, isn’t it?
I found myself wondering if the show was always this great and I had to laugh after hitting up Wikipedia. GL has had some awesomely horrible story lines. Reva was cloned for example.
Somewhere along the line GL grew the hell up…graduated college, got it’s masters and is now schooling every other Soap’s ass in how it should…and can be done.
It’s good times!
May 17th, 2009 at 3:40 pm
Okay, now u’ve made me really appreciate the production model.
But now I must say that u’ve made great commentary about how Natalia being the dominant person n the relationship & Olivia is just like putty n her hands. She can’t do anything without checking 2 make sure Natalia is going 2 approve of it. I think Natalia needed that time n Springfield alone so we can c if she has any backbone without Olivia. I know she needed 2 apologize 2 Frank but not the entire Cooper clan. What’s next she’s going 2 apologize 2 Marina, really. I’m sorry but Buzz is the biggest hypocrite n the world. He tells Frank maybe u should wait & then rails @ Natalia 4 doing what she did. Maybe she should’ve not went 2 the altar but shit happens.
Little minnie Olivia aka Emma, always seems 2 bring their relationship back 2 its originating point, family. It will always b about them as a family. Even when the little “Jelly Bean” does her plotting on her 2 Mommie. Like Phillip said earlier n this year, she’s smart like both of us, beautiful like her mother, but where does she get that sweetness from, not either 1 of us.
U know got me thinking about something, when they do act on the physical part of the relationship, Natalia will feel guilty about it & run away. (This can cover JL maternity leave period) B/c like u stated, she takes 2 steps backwards, 1 step 4ward. Like the ole saying goes: 1st u crawl, then u walk, now u run. So that 2 me is how we can describe Natalia, pretty soon she’ll b walking, & if the show doesn’t end, she’ll b running, n the good way not like she did Frank.
With that being said, like I told u yesterday, u do u & everything will come out great. Once again, I TOLD U SO. It all came out great, hell I’m still recovering from last week post, now u got me behind a week. So if my comments r incoherent, its ur fault 4 giving me 2 great blogs, one right behind one another. Luv ya girl, keep up the great work.
May 17th, 2009 at 4:59 pm
Silverbutterlfy50,
Thank you so much.
Regarding the Hurricane Buzz and Doris, I borrowed from real life. When I started revising the post, it was thundering here, and I realized I’d subconsciously started talking about the weather when I wrote this post. I didn’t realize I did that until I re-read it. And of course, this being Florida, hurricanes are a yearly thing, and it’s almost that season again.
I agree about your views on Buzz and Doris. I must say that Doris’ snappy comments ticked me off a little considering what Natalia had just went through with Buzz. However, she was right. I just wish she didn’t have to go at Nat that way. I’m very protective over Natalia and Olivia. LOL.
I also agree about Natalia not knowing the depth of her sexuality. I’m loving seeing how these two are handling being sexually aware of it each other. I know many peeps want them to hit the sheets, but I don’t want that. These two must crawl before they can walk or run for that matter. I want them to continue taking it slow. I love the sexual tension moments, and the slow burn of that, too. I will say that when they do finally consummate the relationship, it should be one heck of a scene! Oh and I have one request: that Olivia makes Natalia speak some Spanish when they finally do it. That would make me go thud. LOL
May 17th, 2009 at 5:01 pm
Skeeterbopb,
Gracias!
Yes, I try to keep the post in the here and now rather than what’s to come. Like I said, staying spoiler free is important to me and the magic that makes these posts possible. I’m glad you enjoyed it!
May 17th, 2009 at 5:04 pm
Ali,
I can’t believe how much I love Guiding Light. I never thought I would watch this show again, let alone like it, and grow to love it the way that I have. This show being canceled is a huge mistake. I hope we can save it. That’s one of the reasons why I write these Otalia posts. If lending my words and voice to this story helps this show find a new home, I am in it to win it.
You’re welcome! I’m glad you enjoyed this week’s post. This one took a lot out of me though.
May 17th, 2009 at 5:11 pm
Laurel67,
Your comments moved me. Seriously, I am so grateful and humbled by how you viewed this post. As a “struggling and aspiring author,” it is wonderful to know that my words can make people feel the way that you do. I’m still getting use to the idea that my words can affect people the way that they have.
Your comment about me writing Otalia feels like a love story in its own set off a light bulb. I didn’t realize I was doing that, but when you said that, I guess I am writing it that way now that I think about it.
Thank you so much for your lovely words. Once again, if I ever have a bad day writing, I just need to look at the Otalia comments. Wow, thank you!
May 17th, 2009 at 5:14 pm
Kiran,
Thank you for enjoying it! I think the attention to detail-oriented part of me comes from my day job as a writer. In my occupation, I have to be detailed-oriented with what I write. I guess I carried over that part to what I’m doing with the Otalia posts. Granted, I have been detailed-oriented with the stories I write, but I think I have become much more about the details because of my day job.
May 17th, 2009 at 5:22 pm
DocT,
Thank you so much. I’m glad you enjoyed this week’s post.
I agree with your take on how how EW and JLH are writing Otalia. Loving it! I also hate the way soaps write couples so fast. I can’t get invested in them because I don’t buy that they love each other in two months. Plus, I don’t get invested because I know a couple won’t be together in six months anyway. With Otalia, it’s different. It’s classic soap writing, which I am positively loving. Seriously, I am drinking it up.
Yes, like I said, it took me some time to like and appreciate the production model Guiding Light is using. The show has it down right now, and I am appreciating the fact that it frees us to focus on the character-driven stories. I am a character-driven story advocate in soaps, shows, and films BTW.
May 17th, 2009 at 5:24 pm
WC,
Wow, be careful. You will make my head swell! Seriously, thank you so much. I’m glad that you enjoyed it and could see the episodes with “new eyes.”
May 17th, 2009 at 5:25 pm
Susi,
Thank you and you’re welcome! I am the “hive mind” after all. All your thoughts belong to me
May 17th, 2009 at 5:34 pm
Moonwish,
Wow! Thank you for the awesome compliments! It makes what I go through to write these posts worth the effort.
This week’s post was especially difficult to write. I struggled hard, and I was experiencing Otalia-sized angst nearly the entire time I wrote the first draft. Writing this post was frustrating to me when I first started, and I spent forever trying to write it. This Otalia post took the longest time for me to write at this point in time. I just felt like what I had wasn’t good enough. I was worried that I was going to fail myself and you guys with this week’s post. However, when I started revising it, I realized that it was better than I thought. Seriously, I’m so relieved that it came out this way and you guys like it. As I said over at BPD, I think it could be better.
May 17th, 2009 at 5:44 pm
BBK,
You’re very welcome! Thank you for enjoying it.
I’m chuckling about your reaction to what I wrote about Liv’s hips. When I saw her doing that, I was like, “Whoa!” Natalia is doing wonders when it comes to Olivia’s expressive body language. What’s next?
I agree with how JLH wrote how Otalia detailed how and why they loved they each other. That was a relief to me with all of the friends talk. And yes, Olivia’s hurricane force winds are stirring up every time Natalia touches her. Makes me wonder how Olivia will react when Natalia becomes a bit more brave and touch her in a different way. That I can’t wait to see. Wow. Those two are explosive on screen. Definitely the hottest couple I’ve ever seen on soaps and even primetime.
May 17th, 2009 at 5:51 pm
KatsMeow,
I do agree with the realism of the story lines on Guiding Light. I feel like I am able to connect with these characters more than any other characters on soaps. I love that about this show.
As for GL’s greatness, I’m well aware it wasn’t always this way. When I was a kid watching the show in the 80s, this show was simply amazing. I can still remember Reva Shayne’s first appearance at Springfield. As the 90s came along, I noticed that GL wasn’t that good anymore, and I had other soaps I was watching outperforming them. It’s why I quit GL. Since both of my brothers were still watching GL at the time, I knew about some of the absurdity with their story lines (i.e. Cleva). It’s one of the reasons why I stayed away. My brothers tried to get me watching again with the Phillip and Harley stuff, but I didn’t bother. At the time, I was resigned to the fact that I would probably never watch GL again. I’m so glad I was wrong! Like you, I came for Otalia, but I am staying for everything else. I love watching characters that I grew up with (i.e. Buzz, Frank, Reva, Josh, Bill, Vanessa, etc.) on the show. I’m glad this show got its act together. I am so invested that it’s not even funny. I will be heartbroken if it doesn’t find a new home. Really.
I knew that the production model was “interesting” from soap podcasts before I started watching. I was somewhat prepared that it wasn’t going to be the same, but I was still shocked at the look. However, like I said, I got over it and realized this is working for me. I see GL’s vision and appreciate it.
May 17th, 2009 at 5:57 pm
Toya,
Buzz’s dialog with Natalia annoyed me. It was contradictory to what he has been saying to Frank for weeks now. I get that Natalia sees Buzz as family and why she felt like she should apologize. However, I think he needs to stay out of it. The relationship is over, and there is no going back.
Thanks about the words of encouragement on writing this post. I am still surprised this post came out the way it did. I was worried about this one, for real, when I finished the first draft. I’m glad I slept on it for a few hours and came back with fresher eyes. Once I started revising, I realized I was giving myself more grief than I deserved. Still, I really think I could do better, but I am never satisfied with anything I write. That feeling of never being satisfied pushes me to do better next time.
May 17th, 2009 at 10:44 pm
In all honesty, this is most articulate and beautiful article I have ever read period. I look forward to watching the Otalia scenes again and observing the details you pointed out. It never occurred to me to think about colors! And JLH is a genius with the writing. I do believe ‘beautiful dreams’ was intentional. And the multidimensional, character growth of Olivia and Natalia has been a rarity to watch in today’s instant gratification and quick-paced world. We are lucky to have Otalia and we are especially lucky to have your analysis and thoughts. Thank you for sharing and I hope you continue to write more. Best regards, Alli
May 17th, 2009 at 11:30 pm
alliCarolinaGirl,
What can I say but thank you so very much for the lovely compliment! You and some of the other Otalians who have commented are making my hell swell with the awesome feedback. Again, I truly appreciate the wonderful words. It’s appreciative to hear, especially after this post was the one I struggled with the most.
Agreed about Olivia and Natalia being a rarity. I haven’t bothered to get emotionally invested with other couples since they’re usually broken up in six months. With Otalia, it is classic soap opera writing for couples and I love it!
I think it’s great that you will go back and watch the Otalia scenes again. I have noticed that other commenters often go back and re-watch the Otalia goodness for the week after reading my posts. I’m happy that my views are allowing people to watch their scenes again and take in other aspects of that week’s episodes. Hopefully, my posts will bring in new fans. I do know for a fact that I have nabbed a couple of new fans and brought them over to Team Otalia. And yes, I will continue to write more. If Otalia is on that week, I will write about them. I’m here to help spread the beauty that is Otalia and help save this show!
May 18th, 2009 at 12:26 am
Thank you for your posting! I love the fact that you bring up details that I usually miss while watching the show – such as – the big purple dreams and now it is beautiful dream.
I look forward to reading more!
Thank you!
Denise
May 18th, 2009 at 5:41 am
Denise,
You’re very welcome. I’m glad you enjoyed this week’s post!
May 20th, 2009 at 4:12 am
Thank you again for this wonderful piece. Im a bit late commenting, since were already into this wonderful week of Otalia, but i still really appreciate your comments!
Especially about the role reversal between Olivia and Natalia. Liv is puddy in Nat’s hands, lol, and i think she knows it. Nat just needs to understand it a bit more maybe
. Soooo many more good things to come, its gonna be amazing!
Thank you again!!
May 20th, 2009 at 9:05 am
Mikka,
You’re very welcome. I’m glad you enjoyed the post.
So agreed about Olivia being putty in Natalia’s hands. It’s just unbelievable to watch Olivia in this way, and I look at Natalia like, “OMG, you are freaking AWESOME if you can make the mighty Olivia Spencer react like this!” It’s stunning TV.
May 24th, 2009 at 6:32 pm
Standing ovation for you!! So beautiful, how you paint this beautiful love story. I just can’t say enough about your artistry!! I guess you could be a writer or an artist, could’nt you? But, I guess they are one and the same.
May 24th, 2009 at 7:06 pm
Debbie,
Thank you so much for the lovely compliment! *taking a bow* LOL. Yes, an artist and writer are one in the same
May 2nd, 2010 at 5:00 pm
That was a great blog post,Maybe I might sign up to your rss.