Cafe Melrose

Back at Wordpress!

2008-12-14T10:08:00.000-08:00

I never formally said that I was back at Wordpress. I guess that'll always be Cafe Melrose's first home.

cafemelrose.wordpress.com

FTLY: Episode 21

2008-08-03T20:36:00.000-07:00

CLICK HERE!

Thanks Jaycee!

FTLY: Episode 20, ALL SUBBED!!

2008-07-27T12:18:00.000-07:00

Once again, Jaycee manages to go at lightning speed. :)

Episode 20: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Be sure to leave some thanks at the video comments!

FTLY: Episode 19, ALL PARTS Subbed!

2008-07-20T22:28:00.000-07:00

Before I sleep...

Episode 19: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Episode 20: PREVIEW

Once again, these ultra fast subs are brought to you by JAYCEE. Be sure to leave Jaycee your thanks! :D

ATTN: I thought I had a week free before the next session of college classes begins, but unfortunately, it takes place after it. So, that means my "Farewell" entry for Lobo is still unfinished.

However, now that Lobo is done, I'm wondering what upcoming teleseryes Angel Locsin will star in, other than that movie with Piolo. In other tidbit news, I feel that, just from the previews, GMA's lineup definitely beats ABS-CBN's right now. My Girl is probably the only one keeping the Kapamilya boat afloat.

Goodnight! :D

- Paula

Edit It's only Monday and Episode 19 plus Episode 20 Preview has ALL BEEN SUBBED!! Thank you Jaycee! :D

FTLY: Episode 18, ALL SUBBED! Thank You JAYCEE!

2008-07-15T07:44:00.000-07:00

Episode 18: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Parts: ALL SUBBED BY JAYCEE. Be sure to thank this subber. :D

Thank you to Christine (from the chatbox) for passing on links 2 to 7! :D

Wu Chun & Calvin Chen in the PH: Finally, Quality Questions!

2008-07-14T17:34:00.000-07:00

Uploaded by Angelafrica18

Honestly, I was a little disappointed with these questions (from this video) and felt that the man interviewing them was a complete dumb-ass. Why ask who's the more popular from the two? Whoever the interviewer was, was probably a gossip columnist.

Uploaded by Tiffanybaboy

P.S. - I still have yet to write my farewell entry for Lobo because I'm still trying to think of how I'm going to execute it. Seriously, perfectionism sucks.

Wu Chun & Calvin on The Buzz, ASAP '08, E-Live, & PDA!

2008-07-13T10:17:00.000-07:00

The Buzz

The best guesting of Wu Chun and Calvin Chen was when they were on The Buzz with Ruffa Gutierrez, Boy Abunda, and Kristy Fermin.

Entertainment Live

I was fortunate to get to see the two on Entertainment Live (ELive) before I left to go to the Lotus Festival (boring), and it's actually the first time I've ever heard them speak in English! I know that both of them have studied abroad (Wu Chun in Australia, Calvin in Canada), but this is the only time I've ever seen them in an interview where the people interviewing them can't speak their language, so English is a must.

Since there's so many videos of the interview, click here to watch them.

ASAP '08

Then, when I got home at night, I stayed up until around 1 AM this morning to catch them on the 1st showing of ASAP, but all those performances by Claudine Barretto put me to sleep. I get that it's her birthday, but to take over the show for what seemed like 20 minutes really peeved me off, considering I was waiting for Wu Chun and Calvin's appearance on the show. Anyways, here's the video, uploaded by a YouTuber, from their appearance on ASAP.

Pinoy Dream Academy

Also, the two made an appearance at Pinoy Dream Academy where they once again sang, "Xin Wo," the theme song of Romantic Princess. I was surprised when Toni Gonzaga, the host in the pretty formal gown, stated that Fahrenheit's fans traveled all the way from Taiwan, Malaysia, and Singapore. That's crazy! Not that they traveled, but that they're on Filipino TV. lol

Mark Your Calendars For July 12: Wu Chun & Calvin Chen Off to the Philippines!

2008-07-08T08:44:00.000-07:00

I Am Disgusted

2008-07-08T06:53:00.000-07:00

Credit: PEP - Click For News Article

This totally beats Aga Muhlach and Anne Curtis first of all in When Love Begins. Second, Willie, she's ONLY 19. Which basically means that you look like her father (considering you're 47, and you have a daughter that already has a child, making you a lolo [grandfather]), yet you'll probably impregnate her and leave her eating dust.

As soon as I saw this article, I immediately remembered her from Wowowee, where Willie picked her out from the crowd to co-host with him. Though she reluctantly went up with him, she managed to get in a few sentences and a few questions to the contestants. Then her job was over and I thought that was it. NOT! Supposedly, from what the article quotes, Willie has been to her house twice, met her provincial grandparents, and obviously, was his date to the Star Magic Ball. [insert gagging]

Do you know why I find this news horrid? First of all, I'm 19 years old as well and never have I thought Willie as someone in that light. Second, the girl is in college, for goodness sakes, where she should first be dating kids her age. Third, Willie, how many wives, girlfriends, children have you had? Yeah, you have a whole empire now, right?

Enough said.

Lobo: BIG SPOILER!

2008-07-08T05:29:00.001-07:00

To all the watchers of Lobo, this is a GIGANTIC spoiler for the show. You have been warned.

(lol)

CLICK TO SEE!

AND ANOTHER ONE

Salamat kay koreanoveladik for sharing them in the Lobo thread at PEx. Na gulat ako doon ah! lol

Lobo: Friday (7/4/08) Episode

2008-07-07T07:54:00.000-07:00

I've been pretty much MIA for the past week of Lobo's last two weeks. However, thanks to the Internet, I've been able to catch up. :)

Noah & Lyka Scene

Finally, Noah is back with Lyka and when he turned into a lobo and picked her out amidst the other Braska (the name of the dog in the show - so cute!) and kisses her, first in dog form, then transforms into human form, that was so beautiful. The look on their faces, the way they kissed -- all of it depicts the hardships, the battles won and lost, the time apart, thinking the other has no chance to live: all of this witnessed by the viewers and with that, the kiss was more like a relief, a satisfaction, a need, a victory for both Noah & Lyka and the viewers at home. Overall, this scene was beautifully filmed, edited, animated, and performed. ~~Good work.~~ Brilliantly executed!

Now in the case of Piolo Pascual, I did not like his way of kissing in Don't Give Up On Us (too much saliva), alongside Judy Ann Santos, but in Lobo, man, has he improved! :) And as for Angel, you can really see her character's emotions. It's obvious when I say that these two actors have greatly improved in their craft.

Noah & the Fifty Lobo

I knew it could be done!!! The animators/directors should have incorporated this during the Night of the Red Moon. I'm still hoping for a full on war against the Luna, so writers, is there any way to sneak it in and have the directors and filming crew work their magic?

Sir Elton

I love Sir Elton. I really do. I used to hate him in the beginning when he was making Lyka's life a living hell, but he sure is a comic relief sometimes. In Friday's episode, I loved how he snatched the cell phone out of the lady's hands and stomped on it so the video of Lyka transforming into lobo form during her wedding will not be seen by the police (although it's already made headlines, which I'll talk about later).

His character isn't the type that would all out try to make people laugh amidst a war, rather his actions are appropriate for his character. The background music also helped this scene because it didn't have the usual "this is a funny scene, so laugh" sound. The actor playing Sir Elton wasn't forcing us to laugh, rather, it's his character's persona to do what he did.

Lobo in the News

FREAKING FINALLY. I made a post in the Lobo/Wolfies thread about how current happenings in the story hasn't even been on the news. The show is fiction, but in order to really get into the story, it has to have some sense of reality -- for example, everyone must have seen what happened during the Night of the Red Moon, yet it feels like only the people battling that night saw it, since the show never incorporated a news report/headline. Seriously, in real life, I think that if the Moon were to ever turn red with fireballs hitting the Philippines, it would probably make it to the Top Stories section.

Moving on, so finally, the writers incorporated a newspaper scene where it shows that the people of the Philippines are aware that there are lobo amongst them, most importantly, Lady Elle, one of the most important icons in the fashion industry. Now, hopefully, they'll incorporate a news report soon. I don't care if it's Edu, Donita, or Bernadette -- as long as there's a sense that the people, in the world of the lobo, is AWARE.

Way of Filming

Another wish of mine was fulfilled! In the post where I wrote about the lack of world awareness in Lobo, I also talked about how the way some scenes were being filmed was seriously lacking. I asked for different angles, most especially, a worm's-eye-view, and I got it! The scene where Anton was being pushed away from the Cave of Remus by strong, fierce winds was far better than when they shot it with Noah. Gone is the weird angle close-ups, so say hello to the ground-view-looking-into-the-cave shot. :D

Overall

Good Friday episode. :) The scene where Noah and Lyka meet and kiss (which was a beautiful surprise) really made this episode shine. Now I can't wait for today's episode!

Until then, happy drama watching! :D

FTLY: Episode 17, ALL PARTS Subbed!

2008-07-06T14:46:00.000-07:00

Episode 17: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

NOTE: Look people, I don't upload episodes, I share the links with you guys because sometimes, others (like me at one point in time) are not able to find FTLY subbed episodes. The people that did sub these FTLY episodes, are the awesome people at AsianFanatics.net, who now have a web site: ftly.blogspot.com. :D

Edit Thanks for the people who are sharing links in the chatbox! :)

FTLY: Episode 16, ALL PARTS SUBBED!!!

2008-06-30T15:37:00.000-07:00

Episode 16: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Be sure to thank the people over at AsianFanatics.net -- they've been working hard to bring us FTLY subbed episodes.

Parts: 1 - cindilette, 2 & 3 - eyescandy, 4 & 5 - xiaomaii, 6 - Sayrin, 7 - koalagurl1993, 8 - ayari, & 9 - otchosais

People, is it me, or is overstream.net slow today? Hmm... Maybe it's because of all the Faters watching. heh heh

A Few Thoughts: I don't know about you guys, but Part 8 just had me in tears! I keep reverting back to when Xin Yi was still pregnant with Ji Nian Pi, remembering the sadness and loss she went through... Then there's Cun Xi, who misses her so much and regrets not treasuring her as he should have had. Part 8 was a really bittersweet moment, especially when Cun Xi promised Xin Yi that if they were to meet again one day, they'll just be strangers. HUN! If only you waited for her to speak, she would've told you that she wanted you guys to say Hi to each other! *tear*

Then Xin Yi forgets to give back Cun Xi's coat, so she runs back after him. I was just balling by this time because they just said their goodbyes.

Anyways, I can't wait for Sunday/Monday. It's sooo bittersweet. :'(

Lobo Bids Farewell on ASAP :(

2008-06-29T14:56:00.000-07:00

I can't believe the show that I actually stood by with is coming to an end soon. It started on January 28, Winter season here in Los Angeles, and ends in the Summer. Congratulations to the cast, crew, and writers of Lobo -- this show really created a community as well as push Angel Locsin to really shine as an actress and to further show that Piolo Pascual is one hell of an actor.

ALSO, to the Wolfies that went on ASAP, awesome representation guys! I love our banner! :)

FTLY Preview: I'm Excited

2008-06-29T14:52:00.000-07:00

I have yet to see today's episode (or at least with English subtitles), but I'm already excited for next week!

Uploaded by Gar6301

FTLY: BIG BIG SPOILER

2008-06-23T22:06:00.000-07:00

I'm a member of the PinoyExchange and I was visiting the FTLY thread there and saw this:

WARNING: SPOILER ALERT!!!

Click here to see!

Lobofied Monday: RIP Manolo, Lobo is a Freaking Movie

2008-06-23T19:19:00.000-07:00

Manolo

Lobo has once again taken a weird turn and have started killing off more people. This time, the lucky winner is Manolo. It was evident he was going to get killed off when he proposed to Lady Elle and told Noah to really try to fully accept Lyka and all her lobo qualities as well as the clan itself. The show was making him SAY HIS GOODBYES! However, my love for the show made me think that it was utterly ridiculous if the writers did opt to kill him. I guess I was wrong.

Although, for some reason, I feel that there's still a spark of hope that the writers will try to bring him back, or at least portray that his death was just an act because him being shot by the gunman happened all too fast. His death happened all too fast and there wasn't even any heart-felt, crying-your-eyes-out scene at the hospital where everyone would just be looking at his heart beat pulsing down to an eerie nonstop beep. Writers, is there something up your sleeves, or was it just because there wasn't time to fit in this scene into the already hectic and busy schedule?

Either way, I think it was unnecessary to kill off another good character, and a pretty important one at that. Hell, I still miss Choi and now Manolo? Hopefully, Manolo's death will have contributed to something vital in the next episodes to come. But if the show keeps killing off more people, then Lobo won't be any better than Ysabella, Babangon Ako't Dudurugin Kita, CRAZY FOR YOU (gosh, I hated how they killed Toni Gonzaga's character in the end), and the list goes on. I call it unnecessary killing.

Trixie

Trixie is the next E! host aka the next Nana Sela. A part of me thinks that this storyline was just added and was never included in Mark Bunda's original story, but I'm somewhat okay with it -- it adds more to the story. But, if only her abilities were introduced in the beginning episodes of Lobo, that way, I wouldn't be feeling like the new plot for Trixie was a kind of emergency addition. I'm hoping that the show will try to surprise us by going into past episodes and at least try to make connections to her newfound abilities -- to show that the writers have been thinking about this for a long time.

Gabby

Girl, to put it simply and in very very casual American English, you are gettin' on my last nerves!! I gave you such a beautiful report on your personality progress, but I just hated how you were blaming the sniper's death on the lobo clan. First of all, why? Past episodes have heavily touched on the idea that you have been sucking face with Alec, but you still don't trust him, nor his kind? Parang, it was unlikely for her character to just blame it all on the lobo. I would've believed it if she blamed it on a specific person, but all of the lobo clan? After she's been with Alec? Seems not very her. Now she's going into Anton's lair -- writers, stop killing people off. I beg you...!

Lyka and her Lobo Form

At first, I found it soooo hilarious how everyone would just be talking to a dog. Then in tonight's episode, it shows Lyka in a translucent-ghost-like form that only Anton can see -- I liked that a lot. What I didn't like was how Lyka was able to touch and hold the jail-cell bars, but she couldn't even touch anyone else! WTH? Seriously, things like these shouldn't be forgotten -- it's very careless.

Overall,

Okay episode tonight. I liked how Tikboy finally told Trixie that they were related as well as related to Nana Sela. I just didn't like how she told him to keep her newfound abilities a secret. [insert annoyed facial expression] The whole time I was shouting, "TELL THEM ALREADY." And doesn't anyone else (in the show) see when Trixie's eyes turn white?! It's like only the viewers see it...

Considering it's Monday, it's normal for Filipino shows to start slow at the first day (My Girl is a good exception). So I'll just wait for tomorrow's.

Lobo is a Freaking Movie

This is what I've noticed with this show -- it runs like a movie. There's never a chance to breathe, which can be both good and bad.

It's a good thing when the show runs like you just can't wait to watch tomorrow's or next week's episode (if you're watching on a Friday). Believe me, Lobo is like that most of the time. :)

Bad because everything is just on-going and twists and turns are being added left and right -- like we're really watching a movie and we've been waiting for the ending. You know, that type. However, in this case, we've been waiting for the ending for months. It depends on how you'd take that sentence. To me, I'm excited to know what's going to happen in the end already: will Lyka and Noah really survive and grow old together and have tons of babies that will populate the Philippines? lol

All in all, two weeks left everyone!! [insert fan girl scream] I'm really hoping the writers stick to their greatness and stop all this killing. If I had my way, I'd want it to end already (say, this week) so there won't be anymore killings.

FTLY: Episode 15 Parts ALL PARTS COMPLETED!

2008-06-23T18:57:00.000-07:00

The people over at AF are currently subbing and have already finished all the parts!

Please remember to give them all your thanks. :D

Episode 15: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

Also, I want to thank the fellow fans of FTLY for sharing links when I'm not able to update. So, I thank you guys! :)

FTLY: Episode 16 Subbed Preview, Ep 15 Transcripts

2008-06-23T06:48:00.000-07:00

WATCH HERE

The preview for Ep. 16 was subbed by Minsquare91x. If you guys haven't heard, Min will be going back to school, so subbed episodes of FTLY will be uploaded much later than we're usually used to.

Update: The amazing people at AF are currently subbing FTLY Episode 15. However, if you can't wait, you can read the transcript (from the beginning up until the cab scene) written by one of their members on Episode 15.

Part 1, Part 2

My Girl: Episode 17 ALL PARTS Subbed

2008-06-18T08:38:00.000-07:00

Episode 17: WATCH HERE

All subtitles are brought to you by the subbing team at Sub-I-Mo-Eh. Be sure to give them your love!

As for My Girl, the show hasn't failed to make me laugh. Finally, we're given a drama-comedy from the Philippines -- a good change from the usual dramatic teleseryes we always tend to see. So watch it because it will surely put a smile on your face. :)

FTLY: Episode 14 ALL PARTS Subbed!

2008-06-15T20:07:00.001-07:00

Episode 14: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Notice from Min (WATCH!)

All parts are brought to you by Minsquare91x -- be sure to thank her! :) Man, and it's only Tuesday!

Okay, I gotta go and watch this guys!

FTLY: Episode 15 Subbed Preview

2008-06-15T18:10:00.000-07:00

WATCH IT HERE!

Thank you to shobe-show for the subs! :)

As for Fated to Love You, I am also hoping that the show does not start to drag because of its extension. Let's just hope for the best everyone!

If you want to cheat like me, you can watch Episode 14 (RAW) at Rainie777's YouTube page. Although, it really sucks when you don't know the language. lol However, you can probably pick up the gist of what the characters are saying if you know some basics. Other than that, I still need the subs to completely understand the scenes. lol

In addition, I'll be more or less absent for the next few weeks since classes have started again. :(

Happy drama watching!

Sorry Calvin, Wu Chun Scheduled Himself to Swim to the Philippines Already

2008-06-13T12:09:00.000-07:00

Anyone remember my post from a couple weeks ago about Calvin making/not making a negative joke about the Philippines? Well, too bad for 'ole Calvin, but it seems that our Wu Chun/Zun (whatever - C or Z) will actually be heading over to the Philippines to promote Romantic Princess, which is shown on ABS-CBN.

From Paula to Calvin: MUAHAHHAHAHHAHHAA

Okay, very childish of me, but I'm using it as an interpretation of what I'm feeling right now.

Putting me aside, Wu Chun will be in the Philippines on July 12-14 and it's been "...confirmed..." according to WuChunFever.com and this video:

In addition, I'm just updating everyone, so if it doesn't happen, don't blame the messenger.

Philippines' My Girl: Tuesday Episode Completed Subs OUT

2008-06-11T01:59:00.000-07:00

You're in luck, non-Tagalog speakers, Ace19 has uploaded all parts of Episode 12 with subtitles!

Watch Episode 12 (ALL SUBBED) Now!

Also, the Sub-I-Mo-Eh team needs your help! If you understand Tagalog and can read and write English, think of applying to their web site to help sub future episodes. Kailangan ang tulong ninyo! (Hopefully I wrote that correctly. heh Remember, my Tagalog = learned casually).

Lobo Tuesday: If You Have It, Then Use It!

2008-06-10T22:44:00.000-07:00

Watch Episode 95 Now
Sorry non-Tagalog speakers, this show is not subbed, unfortunately.
Fancy reading instead? Read the Summary Now

The Red Moon has come, Lyka and Silva are literally at each other's necks, the lobo and the Luna are in battle, Noah is evading bullets. This is what we have all been waiting for, the moment in which the story reaches its climax, or at least its purpose.

If only tonight's episode was executed well.

Probably what peeved me off the most was Lyka's scene with Silva. Lyka knocked him out and as she was about to (achingly slowly) retrieve the Stone of Remus from Silva's hand, he opens his eyes and suddenly pulls her down to the ground, proceeding to strangle her to death. While he was doing this, Lyka had two free hands that she could have so easily used to punch him off her. But no. She instead uses her free right hand to try to literally, "reach for the moon," while the other was lightly caressing the hands that were stealing the life out of her lungs. Seriously, what were the directors thinking, let alone Angel Locsin?

You can see what I mean by clicking here. Credit goes to http://abscbn-lobo.blogspot.com/ You see her right arm? The fist attached to it could have punched Silva easily.

Another thing that I just did not like and found sickening was when Silva repeatedly stabbed Lyka as she was holding the Stone to the Red Moon. Watching that made me sick to the stomach and it was very un-Lobo like. It was where the story went from the love/drama genre to the gory one. Sure Silva is hungry for power, but from all the past 90+ episodes, never did I predict that the story would turn into a preview of Saw V.

Oh and one more thing about Lyka. Girl, if you have the freaking power of super speed, then by all means, use it!!! How many times did Lyka have a chance to quickly snatch the Stone from Silva and just throw him against a rock or over a cliff? The whole time!

Then there was Piolo Pascual, that I usually have high praises for. During his shooting scene with the Luna, it seemed like he was pretending to be Brad Pitt on the set of Mr. and Mrs. Smith, turning round and round while shooting at invisible enemies. He did that about three times until, finally, he got shot. I was actually thankful that happened because it put a stop to all that spinning. Instead of how this was executed, I was hoping that the camera would circle Piolo as he was shooting and that it would actually show the Luna shooting at him. But no, we as viewers are forced to imagine where the shooters are. Last time I checked, it's not our job to do that.

Aside from our two main characters, the battle scene between the lobo and the Luna was just a disappointment. The scene lacked in efficient choreography, as if everyone were told to partner up and that they would just try their best not to hurt each other, but at the same time, put in a few blows, all of this in slow motion. The editors could have improved it with quick transitions, camera angles, and different sound effects. It's as if us viewers would not be able to tell that each blow to the face was the same sound. Oh, come on!

This is how I have been imagining THE battle of the century to happen:

The setting is on an open field, no trees, just grass. The background music has a slow drum-like beat. Along the horizon, the Luna awaits, while the lobo look on (game face applied), ready to fight from their end. Both parties are ready to cut the distance between them. The Luna starts to advance, running towards the wolves, guns pointed. Meanwhile, the lobo are engulfed by a blue pulsing glow as each are transforming to wolf form, leaping forward, going head to head into the heat of the battle. As this is going on, the background music goes from its slow pulse to a much more, harder, tougher, faster pace.

Both parties are a little far away, but when they do meet, there's an integration of moving, fighting bodies. The camera gives us a side aerial view, then quickly zooms and cuts into different scenes of what's happening to everyone. And it's dark (just like tonight's episode), with only the light of the moon giving just a hint of shine on each of their faces. Some lobo die (the extras) by the onslaught of bullets while some (Geoff) barely miss them and lunge after the Luna. Those that are not lobo, aka Choy, Gabby, and Manolo, also fight and we see quick moves, you know, the ones that make it seem like they actually went into military training.

For this to happen, it needs great camera work and a detailed fight scene between each and everyone. Instead, we're given a small group of fighting lobo (not even in wolf form) and Luna, hitting each other at a snail's pace. At other times, fists weren't even making contact with skin!

Seriously, Lobo crew, you guys have been doing SO well in the past episodes, but lately, something fishy has been going on. Remember that you marketed this show to a smart community -- don't give us anything less.

The one scene that I probably liked out of tonight's episode was when Noah shot Silva when Lyka was being stabbed and Noah ran to help keep Lyka on her feet as the Red Moon was putting its full force on her. To me, this scene was just another enforcer to the recurring fact that Noah and Lyka are stronger as one. So that when Lyka becomes weak, Noah is always there to give her the additional strength she needs. Beautiful indeed.

edit - They actually filmed the Noah/Lyka scene in daylight (link). Wow. TOTALLY different from the end product. I give props to the graphics/animation designers for this one.

There May Be Hope For Dyosa

2008-06-10T12:57:00.001-07:00

Credit: unickolang of PEx

The teaser was horrible by the second minute. However, looking at this poster gives me hope that Dyosa will save itself. And, it hasn't even aired yet!

Calling ALL Filipinos! In Need of Subbers!

2008-06-10T08:37:00.000-07:00

Hello my fellow kababayans. :) Sub-I-Mo-Eh, the team that's bringing you subtitles of the daily ABS-CBN program, My Girl, needs translators and timers.

Obviously, you have to be good with English, (but hey, isa yan sa strengths natin, diba?).

To apply, go to Sub-I-Mo-Eh where you'll see an e-mail address under "Help Wanted".

Once again, thanks to Ace19 and Otchosais for bringing subtitles of this drama. With their hard work, we're continuing the fight to break in the Asian Drama list with our own dramas. So, help in any way you can, if you have the time!

P.S. - It's only too bad I'm taking classes again next week. :(

Philippines' My Girl - Monday: Episode 11 (W/ Eng Subs) UP!

2008-06-09T15:24:00.001-07:00

Watch Episode 11!

Don't forget to leave some thanks to the wonderful Ace19 for today's subtitles. :)

FTLY: Episode 13, ALL PARTS SUBBED!

2008-06-09T07:35:00.000-07:00

Updated 7.37AM PST (Good Morning!)

Here's Episode 13: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

Do not forget to leave your thanks on Minsquare91x, Eyescandy, and Eatmyshorts' (lol) page or video comments!

Oh! and wonderful work visitors! Thanks for sharing links at the chatbox (I knew it was a good idea to move to blogger!). Also, type your name next time so I can at least thank you guys instead of thanking "Guest". lol This way, while us West Coasters (US) are sleeping, everyone else who aren't are still updating each other. Brilliant. :)

So until next Sunday or Monday again everyone! :)

FTLY: NEW Opening Credits!

2008-06-08T17:01:00.000-07:00

Warning: Contains Massive Amounts of Spoilers! Thank you to gar6301 for uploading! :)

Dyosa: Be Afraid

2008-06-08T16:01:00.000-07:00

Here is the newest trailer from ABS-CBN's Dyosa starring Anne Curtis.

Video Credit: toughie520

I have no problem with Anne Curtis at all, it's the effects that are getting under my skin. The first minute was wonderfully animated, but after that, that's when the trailer goes off into the unknown. And not to forget the weird wigs! *slap in the face* Anne Curtis is a funny, beautiful, and an awesome actress, but the costume designers and animators of Dyosa are staining her image.

Summary from Wikipedia:

Eighteen-year-old Dyosa is living a normal life as a student, a part-time cosplay model and a loving daughter to her midget parents when she discovers that she is not an ordinary girl. A half-man half-goat appears before Dyosa on her 18th birthday to reveal that Dyosa is actually a goddess, a descendant of Mariang Sinukuan and Bernardo Carpio, who is destined to rule the world of the upper gods. Dyosa has to make a choice: Will she heed the call of her destiny and save the dying world of the Philippine gods and goddesses and leave the life she has lived for 18 years? Or will she resist her new role as a goddess and give up her powers to stay in the human world with the mortal she loves?

My Girl: Episode 10 With Subtitles OUT!

2008-06-08T15:31:00.001-07:00

Watch Episode 10 Now!

Thank you as always to the Sub-I-Mo-Eh subbing team. Don't forget to show them your thanks! :)

You can find the latest subbed episodes on the right navigation of their site. Happy drama watching!

FTLY Episode 13: Currently Wishing I Understood Mandarin

2008-06-08T15:30:00.000-07:00

FTLY Episode 13 is already out on the Tube, but without English subtitles. :(

You can start watching the raw version at Rainie777 or you can simply search YouTube and you'll see that so many people have uploaded parts of Episode 13 already. As for me, I'm still on the lookout for subtitles. :)

Also, here's the preview of Episode 14, also uploaded by the wonderful Minsquare91x, WITH English subtitles:

If any of you have found subtitles to Episode 13, please do share! :D

While we wait, you guys can watch the Philippines' remake of My Girl starring Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson (who both also starred in Sana Maulit Muli or Chances which also aired in Taiwan recently). To watch the latest episodes (which airs every weekday) with English subtitles, head on over to:

Sub-I-Mo-Eh

About

2008-06-08T14:16:00.001-07:00

Cafe Melrose was created for the sole intention of typing down my comments about certain episodes of certain dramas on television -- mostly shows from Taiwan, Korea, and my native land, the Philippines. Since I usually don't have anyone to rant and rave about a certain episode, I decided I should just bring it over to the internet (hah) and thus Cafe Melrose was born.

I don't like to sugarcoat things, so my posts are always straight to the point. If I don't like an episode (same with a character), you will surely be able to tell. In addition, if a show is starting to go at a snail's pace, then surely, I will too with my posts about that particular show.

Overall, if you have your own thoughts on a show or you agree/disagree with my thoughts, then by all means, you're welcome to post(!), as long as it's about the show and not some network war comment. It'd be so great if we can start conversations about the same thing we love! :D

So happy drama watching everyone!

-- Paula

Tagalog Glossary

2008-06-08T14:06:00.000-07:00

In my posts I usually type Tagalog words that are used in that particular show. To make things easier for both you and me, I've decided to create a glossary of terms.

Abangan - (AH-bang-ngan) - To watch. In the case of Filipino dramas, the previews for the next episode are called the Abangan scenes or the "scenes to watch/wait for".

Ate - (AH-teh) - The "e" in Ate is pronounced the same as the e in 'led'. It means "Older sister".

Bahay - (BAH-hai) - House. (Added by Anonymous 2)

Gago (male) / Gaga (female) - Stupid/foolish person.

Grabe - (GRAH-beh) The 'e' is pronounced like the e in 'led'. It means - grave, weighty. Let's say your teacher gave you a lot of homework in which your expression can be: "Ang grabe naman!" Which means (but doesn't necessarily translate to), "That's too much!" (Added by Anonymous 1)

Huling Bantay - (who-ling ban-tai) - Last Guardian, literally.

Ikaw - (EE-cow) - You (singular).

Kapamilya - The team name of the Philippine broadcasting station, ABS-CBN Channel 2. Loyalists of the show call themselves Kapamilya, meaning "of the family." Basically, ABS-CBN is interpreting that the station and the viewer are family.

Kapuso - The team name of the Philippine broadcasting station, GMA Channel 7. Loyalists call themselves Kapuso, meaning "of the heart." GMA interprets the station and the viewer as people of the heart.

Kapuso VS Kapamilya - These two stations have been rivaling for years, causing viewers of the two to fight each other as well. In my opinion, they need to calm the f*** down. (Just saying...)

Ka'yo - You (plural); see ikaw.

Kulit - (KOO-lit) - Someone/something that does something a lot (haha sorry for my explanation; just read further). For example, "Ang kulit mo naman!" which can translate to, "You talk too much!" or "You [insert verb] too much!" depending on what he/she is doing.

Kilig - (KEE-lig) - To shiver. When used in topics of love and romance, it means to shiver with delight when something romantic or cute happens. You would say, "Nakakakilig itong scene na 'to," which translates to, "This scene makes me shiver with delight."

Kuya - (KOO-ya) - Older brother

Lahat - All, the total.

Lobo - Wolf

Nanay - Mother

Pulang Buwan - (poo-lang bwan) - Red Moon, literally.

Sige - (SEE-geh) - The 'e' is pronounced the same as the e in 'led'. To go ahead, say okay, or all right. When someone asks you if you'd like to go out/do something, and instead of saying Yes/Sure, you can say, "Sige." (Added by Anonymous 1)

Taong-Lobo - (TA-ong lobo)- Half human/half wolf.

Tatay - Father

Teleserye - (te-le-SAIR-ye) Television series. It's the name for our Filipino dramas. Instead of the word "drama," it's called a teleserye.

Tira, Tira! - (TEE-ra, TEE-ra) - Go, Go! - Kim Chiu's Jasmine in My Girl says this to lift her spirits up. It can be compared to Mandarin's "Jia you!" or to Korea's "Aja! Fighting!" I, myself, instead use, "Laban!" which literally translates to: Fight! heh

Tita - (TEE-ta) - Aunt

Tito - (TEE-toe) - Uncle

Total - (toh-tal) - To sum up, to express or tell briefly.

Traydor - (TRY-door) - Traitor.

Have I missed any Tagalog words you may have seen? If so, leave me a comment!

To those that have left input, thank you also! :D

Everything Lobo

2008-06-08T14:04:00.000-07:00

The Trailer/MV/Teaser

Lobo Links

OFFICIAL WEB SITE - http://lobo.abs-cbn.com/

Episodes (Raw) - http://lobotheseries.blogspot.com/

Episodes 1-7 (English Subtitles) - MistressoftheWolff @ YouTube

Unfortunately, there aren't many Tagalog-speakers subbing Filipino dramas. Hopefully, that will change soon.

( credit to raissa for putting the following links together! :D )

Music Videos - http://lobo-gelo.blogspot.com/

Photos - http://staradprom.multiply.com/, http://sixthfiddler.multiply.com/photos

Reviews - http://uhmbrr.livejournal.com/

Summaries - http://abscbn-lobo.blogspot.com

Summary

I hope to add pictures here so you won't get bored with my yapping.

The story in a nutshell: Lobo (Wolf) is about two childhood friends turned lovers (years later) who are trying to live normally. However, due to their duty to the people close to them, will both be separated again as they were when they were kids?

Lyka Raymundo recently discovers she is a white taong-lobo (half human-half wolf) and is regarded as the last guardian and savior of the rest of the wolf population. Her duty is to find the Stone of Remus and stop its curse from killing her kind on the night of the Red Moon. However, her love for Noah becomes a hindrance when it is discovered that Noah is from the very organization trying to kill all lobo -- the Luna.

[Updated June 1, 2008] Recently on Lobo, Lyka has finally told Noah the truth: that she herself is a lobo. However, how can Noah still accept her after his father was recently murdered by a black and white lobo?

On top of this, Lyka has found the Stone of Remus and is ready for the night of the Red Moon, but as she was saving her friend, the necklace that holds the power of the Stone of Remus was stolen by the lobo clan's enemy and its own kind: General Silva, a black lobo out to get revenge for the murder of his father (the waya killed his father because he was a black lobo).

How will Lyka save the lobo now, and is there still hope left for Noah and Lyka to be together again?

The story, in detail (beware, this will be very long):

Lobo revolves around Lyka Raymundo (Angel Locsin), an upbeat budding fashion designer, and Noah Ortega (Piolo Pascual), a trained soldier of the Philippine military. Sounds simple right? No.

Their story actually doesn't start with them -- the tale of Lobo starts with Lyka's grandfather, Lorenzo Blancaflor, the son of the white lobo clan's waya (protector, guardian). Lorenzo was a white lobo (wolf) turned black lobo after he accidentally bit a human. Drinking the blood of a human will automatically turn a sane white lobo to a blood-hungry black lobo. To save himself from being killed by the white lobo clan (whom are against the murderous black lobo clan), Lorenzo runs away with his wife and children to let them lead lives away from the clans.

Unfortunately, Lorenzo, is found after he secretly met with his twin sister, Eleanora. The two are found out by the white lobo clan and proceed to rid Lorenzo from this world. Eleanora, pushed aside by her waya parents, watches hopelessly as her brother turns into ash.

Lorenzo's wife and children leave for San Isidro where they try to live without Lorenzo. Years pass and Nessa, the youngest child of Lorenzo falls in love with a local, Emil Ortega, and gives him half of a moonstone her father left her to signify their love for each other. However, Nessa, after her 21st birthday, also turns into a white lobo, inheriting her father's "curse". Her mother explains everything. She then shows Emil her true side, but he is unable to accept it and runs from her. Heart-broken and unable to control her powers, Nessa accidentally kills her mother. She runs away from San Isidro and heads for a location in which she can live in seclusion.

Nessa slowly starts to get on with her life, until a neighbor, Nicholas Raymundo, falls in love with her. He goes to her house, and while she's asleep, beds the poor woman. Nessa awakens and to her dismay, finds out she was raped. Months later, to her dismay, Nessa discovers she's with child and is frightened as to whether she passed on the curse. She then goes to Nicholas and shows her true identity. Unbelievably, Nicholas accepts who she is and loves her anyway.

A few more years go by and Nessa's baby, Ulayka, is around four-six years old now and by this time, Nessa already loves Nicholas. However, they once again are forced to flee their home because the villagers have started to suspect that there may be lobo in their village, and the number one suspect was Nicholas. As they run, Nicholas tells his wife and daughter to go without him and to find safety.

Nessa and Ulay go back to San Isidro, to the only family she has, her older sister, Ate (older sister) Clara. Clara, angry, still blames Nessa for the death of their mother, but lets them live at her home anyway. Nessa accidentally meets Emil Ortega again, now a very successful veterinarian. He, also a widow, now has a son, Jay-Jay. Ulay and Jay-Jay instantly becomes best friends, much to the dismay of Anton, Clara's adopted son. Still in love with Nessa, he's been trying to find a cure for loboism all these years. The two promise to meet on the night of a full moon where he will give her the anecdote he's been working on.

On the night of the full moon, Nessa tells Ulay how much she loves her and gives her half of the moonstone to her daughter. After Ulay falls asleep, Nessa leaves to meet Emil. Unfortunately, the anecdote doesn't work and Nessa is still in her lobo form. Ulay, feeling that there's something wrong, goes with Jay-Jay to find their parents. Jay-Jay finds his father and a white lobo, and unfortunately, while trying to get away from the white lobo that is Nessa, Emil slips on the cliff and falls to his death. Nessa, still in lobo form, runs and goes head to head with the Luna, an agency created to kill all lobo, white or black.

Saddened by their loss, Jay-Jay and Ulay run away. They also discovered that both have half of a moonstone and realize that each half fits together (Emil, before he died, gave Jay-Jay his half of the moonstone). As they get on the make-shift raft they created, the water becomes wild and both are pushed off the raft.

The two later awake and both are told that the other died during the incident. It will be years filled with hardships that they later meet again.

Years go by and Ulay (now called Lyka) has graduated from college and is trying to find a job in the fashion industry, much to the dismay of her Tita (Aunt) Clara. Her Kuya (older brother) Anton (Tita Clara's adopted son) is also in love with Lyka and has been sitting idly waiting to receive that love back. We also discover that Anton is a black lobo, but the show doesn't give away the answer to as to how he became one.

Meanwhile, Jay-Jay (now called Noah) was adopted by Emil's colleague, General Leon Cristobal, and has been put under intense military training since. Over the years, Noah worked to be at the top of his military career, but unknown to him, his adoptive father, under the order of a higher commander, has been training him for the Luna agency. Also, Noah has become a totally different person and has no trace of Jay-Jay in him anymore. Due to the death of his father and Ulay, Noah's focus is solely on the military and his mission, and whatever his father tells him to do.

The fun truly begins when Lyka is accepted at the House of Elle, a notable fashion house. During one of the photoshoots, Lyka was told by her snotty, gay-fashionista boss, Sir Elton, to do a test run of the shoot by strapping herself onto the glider. As soon as Lyka straps herself to the glider, Sir Elton secretly releases the ropes and Lyka is off and away. hah And this is where the story truly begins: Lyka falls smack dab on Noah during one of his missions.

(This is will be continued later... I have about 50 or so episodes to talk about. hah!)