War of the God Monsters | aka The Flying Monster (1985) Review

"War of the God Monsters" Poster

“War of the God Monsters” Poster

AKA: The Flying Monster
Director: Kim Jung-yong
Cast: Kim Ki-ju, Nam Hye-gyeong, Kim Da-hye, Moon Tae-Seon, Kim Uk, Jang Cheol
Running Time: 85 min. 

By Paul Bramhall

Korean cinema was in a strange place during the mid-80’s. After military strongman Chun Doo-hwan essentially elected himself as the country’s president in September 1980 following months of martial law and the infamous Gwangju Massacre in May, filmmakers needed to be extra cautious not to be seen as criticising Doo-hwan’s junta-like rule. To try and take peoples mind off the grim direction that Korean politics seemed to be sending the country towards, it was often cited that Doo-hwan introduced a ‘Three S’s’ policy – representing sex, screen, and sport – to keep peoples minds occupied. The policy was perhaps most ironic for the film industry, as while stories about social problems, real life-events, and any political content was strictly banned, restrictions around showing nudity were actually relaxed.

This led to the erotic cinema boom of the 80’s, and in 1985 the licensing system was changed to a registration one, also allowing for many smaller independent production companies to start making movies. This background is worth detailing, since it was 1985 that director Kim Jung-yong decided to release The Flying Monster onto the world, or as it was to be released in the west, War of the God Monsters. Korean kaiju flicks aren’t exactly common, especially one’s made in the 1980’s, however they’re also not unheard of. In 1967 director Kim Ki-duk made Yongary, Monster from the Deep (which would be remade by Shum Hyung-rae in 1999), and anyone Continue reading

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Jean-Claude Van Damme’s tumultuous ‘Eagle Path’ to finally see a release after 13 years?

“Full Love” Theatrical Poster

“Full Love” Theatrical Poster

If you’re a fan of Jean-Claude Van Damme, chances are you’ve heard of the completed, but unreleased Eagle Path, which is also known as these other 3 titles: Full Love; Soldiers; and Frenchy.

The action drama – produced by Van Damme’s own Rodin Entertainment – is the star’s first directorial effort since 1996’s The Quest. The project was shot on a budget of about $5 million (much of it, financed by Van Damme himself) on location in Thailand and eventually screened out of competition at the Cannes in 2010.

Audiences at the 2010 Cannes screening offered a mixed reaction (watch Van Damme’s intro). There were even some critics who compared the film’s more ‘out there’ sequences to 2001: A Space Odyssey or Terrence Malick’s Tree of Life. Fans had to wonder: had Van Damme gone Continue reading

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Teaser Poster for Will Kaufman’s action thriller ‘Violence of Action’ starring Scott Adkins and Cam Gigandet

"Violence of Action" Teaser Poster

“Violence of Action” Teaser Poster

Martial arts star Scott Adkins (Castle Falls, Boyka: Undisputed IV) is reuniting with his Jarhead 3: The Siege director, Will Kaufman (Sinners and Saints), for Violence of Action. The upcoming actioner also stars Cam Gigandet (Priest, Never Back Down).

Frequent Adkins collaborator Chad Law (Close Range), as well as Josh Ridgway (The Sector), are penning the project. Both writers worked with Adkins’ for Section Eight, as well as the upcoming, Lights Out.

Violence of Action will tell the story of a former SEAL, tormented by a decision he made in Afghanistan, (who) becomes a vigilante in the Big Easy who is brutally taking down a drug gang that is terrorizing his Continue reading

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Final Trailer for Chad Stahelski’s ‘John Wick: Chapter 4’ featuring Donnie Yen, Scott Adkins and Hiroyuki Sanada

"John Wick: Chapter 4" Character Poster

“John Wick: Chapter 4” Character Poster

Chad Stahelski – co-director of the original John Wick and sole director for John Wick: Chapter 2 and John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum – will once again be teaming up with Keanu Reeves, and his partner David Leitch (Atomic Blonde), for John Wick: Chapter 4.

(Note: Contrary to previous reports, John Wick: Chapter 4 and John Wick: Chapter 5 will no longer be shot back-to-back due to recent Covid restrictions).

Unlike the first three films, which take place primarily in New York City, John Wick: Chapter 4 will be an international affair with most of the shoot taking place in Berlin and Paris, with additional photography in New York City and Japan.

The biggest news, especially Continue reading

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Watch Adrian Castro and Maria Tran’s 80s Hong Kong throwback ‘Tiger Cop: Yes Madam!’

"Tiger Cop: Yes Madam!" Teaser Poster

“Tiger Cop: Yes Madam!” Teaser Poster

Are your claws ready for more Tiger Cops? The Australian-produced, “80’s Hong Kong martial arts throwback” comedy series continues with Tiger Cop: Yes Madam! Australian-Vietnamese martial arts star Maria Tran (Last King of the Cross, Tracer) is back as Inspector Tiger.

This time around, Tiger (Tran) faces off against Lara Balog from Stunt Action Consultants. As with the previous Tiger Cops entries, the upcoming Tiger Cop Returns short is directed by Adrian Castro (Nightwalkers TV series), who also serves as fight choreographer for the series.

The 2017 series was based on a throwback concept inspired by Hong Kong’s Girls with Guns sub-genre made popular by Continue reading

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U.S. distributor Glass House brings Vietnamese sci-fi action thriller ‘Head Rush’ to Blu-ray & DVD in March

Head Rush | Blu-ray (Glass House Distribution)

Head Rush | Blu-ray (Glass House Distribution)

On March 13, 2023, Glass House Distribution is releasing the Blu-ray & DVD for Head Rush, a Vietnamese sci-fi action thriller directed by Victor Vu (The Immortal) and starring Cuong Seven (Tracer).

In Head Rush, a man dying of a terminal illness receives an experimental medical treatment and soon discovers he has superhuman powers. But the origins of the treatment are intertwined in a dark history that becomes unraveled in his life.

The film also stars Nha Phuong (Song Song), Quach Ngoc Ngoan (The Prince and the Pagoda Boy) and Ngoc Anh Vu (Farewell, Berlin Wall).

Don’t miss the Trailer Continue reading

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What Are the Different Types of Tactical Firearms? An Overview

What is a tactical firearm?

A tactical firearm is a rifle or handgun that has been modified in order to increase its utility. Whereas a normal gun may be made for either self-defense or hunting, a tactical firearm can do both of those things and more.

That’s why many people who work outdoors or in law enforcement prefer tactical firearms. There’s a reason that they’re one of the fastest-growing segments within the firearms market.

So what are some tactical firearms, and how are they different? This article goes into a little more detail on that. Read on!

Tactical Firearms and Training

Tactical Firearms and Training focuses on teaching individuals the use of firearms for self-defense and combat purposes. This training teaches practical knowledge and skills in order to increase the following:

  • situational awareness
  • accuracy
  • techniques
  • mental conditioning

This is designed to provide individuals with the skills needed to properly and efficiently use and handle firearms in varying situations. This requires instruction in safe gun handling as well as in accuracy and speed drills.

This type of training also covers legal, ethical, and moral considerations that always need to be taken into account when using firearms.

Tactical Firearms and Training is beneficial to both experienced and new shooters alike. It allows experienced shooters to hone their skills and become more proficient. This is while it gives new shooters the tools they need to operate firearms safely and accurately.

Types of Rifles

There are many different types of rifles available for tactical firearm use today. Each type also comes in a variety of calibers, so determining which one is best suited to your needs is key. Here are different rifles with their differences:

Rifles Used by Military & Law Enforcement

Designed for modern warfare, military-grade rifles will generally feature longer-range accuracy, reduced recoil, and increased power. Common military rifles include the AR-15, the M-16, and the more powerful M249 SAW, which fires a 5.56mm round.

While the individual requirements of each military and police force will vary, one thing is for sure: robust rifles designed for their specific uses are essential for the modern soldier and law enforcement officer.

Popular Semi-Automatic Rifles

The most popular models are the AR-15 and AK-47. These are designed to fire in semi-automatic or automatic mode and are highly accurate. The AR-15 is lightweight and portable, perfect for close-quarters battle, while the AK-47 is more durable and better suited for long-range warfare.

Other popular semi-automatic rifles for civilian use are the Ruger Mini-14 and the Remington 700. These are ideal for hunting, target shooting, and home defense purposes.

Lever-Action Rifles

Lever Action Rifles are a type of rifle that typically have a tubular magazine mounted beneath the barrel, allowing for fast reloading.

Lever Action Rifles are often used for hunting, recreational shooting, and target practice. They are popular choices for self-defense as well as cowboy-style shooting competitions.

Bolt-Action Rifles

Bolt-action rifles, also known as bolt guns, are manually operated weapons typically used for hunting big game and shooting sports. They require the user to load the cartridges with the help of a manually operated bolt attached to the receiver.

Bolt-action rifles are generally more expensive than other types of rifles and are typically heavier and more suited for one type of target, such as deer or varmint hunting.

Adaptable Modern Sporting Rifles

Modern Sporting Rifles (MSR) are excellent for recreation and competition. MSRs come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and calibers and include the AR-15, AK-47, and M1A, among others.

Some MSRs are designed for hunting large games, while others are fit for precision shooting. MSRs can also be modified with accessories like telescopic sights, extended magazines, and custom stocks.

Types of Shotguns

There are several different tactical firearms types of shotguns available for use. Each of these types of shotguns may be outfitted with various tactical firearm accessories that can be used to enhance the performance of the weapon system.

Pump-Action Shotguns

Pump-action shotguns operate by manually cycling a round through the barrel, ejecting the spent round, and chambering another round in the process.

The pump-action mechanism gives a shooter better control over their rate of fire, allowing them to fire a single round at a time or multiple rounds quickly.

Lever-Action Shotguns

Lever-action shotguns are known for their accuracy, reliability, and ease of use and are capable of firing rounds of high power loads with an average cycle rate of 30 rounds per minute.

Lever-action shotguns can be used for skeet shooting, sporting clay shooting, waterfowl hunting, or hunting small game and are popular with both wing shooters and rifle hunters.

Single-Shot Shotguns

Single-Shot Shotguns are a type of shotgun with a single barrel and no magazine. This makes them incredibly easy to use and maintain, as there is no need for reloading or buying extra ammo.

They’re also lightweight and very user-friendly, making them an ideal option for hunting, target practice, and home defense. Single-shot shotguns come in various gauges – 12, 20, 28, and .410 – with each gauge offering its own set of features and benefits.

Semi-Automatic Shotguns

These guns are capable of firing multiple rounds with a single trigger pull, making them extremely reliable and precise. They are great for home protection, hunting, skeet and trap shooting, and even just recreational use.

The semi-automatic shotguns are designed with a gas-operated system that cycles the gun quickly, meaning they also have shorter barrels that allow them to be easily maneuvered and pointed quickly.

Types of Handguns

Handguns are an important type of firearm that is used in tactical operations or in everyday life for self-defense. Learn more about the different types of handguns and how they differ from each other.

Compact Semi-Automatic Handguns

They are contemporary weapons that offer the highest degree of accuracy and durability. This type of handgun typically has a shorter barrel, which makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces.

They are generally lightweight and, therefore, easier to handle, making them very popular as concealed carry weapons. They tend to recoil less so the shooter can keep on target in the face of rapid firing.

Revolvers

Revolvers are usually chambered for larger calibers, but many models are available in lesser calibers for concealed carry as well. The revolver is a timeless classic because of its reliability and accuracy.

These handguns utilize a rotating cylinder or wheel to contain the bullets, which is why they are referred to as revolvers. Revolvers can hold between five and nine rounds in the most common sizes, though larger revolvers can hold up to twelve rounds.

Single-Action Pistols

These pistols typically have longer barrel lengths and extended grips for improved accuracy and ease of use. It is commonly equipped with Align Tactical pistol upgrades. Single Action Pistols are single action in mechanism, meaning the hammer must be cocked by hand before the gun can be fired.

They are called “single action” because of the single sequence of events that occurs after the trigger is pulled; the hammer is cocked and then released to strike a firing pin that releases a bullet. The most popular Single Action Pistols are:

  • Colt Single Action Army
  • Smith & Wesson Schofield
  • Ruger Old Army
  • Derringer

Single Action Pistols have been used for centuries for hunting, recreation, and self-defense.

Long-Barrel Revolvers

These handguns feature a barrel that is longer than the standard barrel of a revolver, which makes them perfect for shooting at longer distances.

Originally designed at the turn of the 20th century, long barrel revolvers are attractive to many shooters due to features such as increased accuracy, increased potential for target distances, and increased controllability.

Long barrel revolvers are renowned for their aesthetics and accuracy, with most models including adjustable sights for accuracy at longer distances.

Subcompact Handguns

They have a shorter barrel, width and height than other handguns but still have a sufficient capacity for everyday use. Subcompact handguns come in several different varieties, each with its own set of features and benefits.

Examples of subcompact handguns are the following:

  • traditional revolvers
  • derringers
  • polymer pistols
  • metal semi-automatic pistols
  • pocket pistols
  • double-barrel pistols

Explore These Types of Tactical Firearms

Tactical firearms provide users with the necessary protection and capability to take control any environment. From handguns and SMGs to shoulder firearms, the ability to explore and learn about them is essential to understanding their importance and use.

If you are interested in learning about different types of tactical firearms, it is important to research and find educational resources to help you.

Did you find this article useful? Check out the rest of our blog for more!

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Branded to Kill | 4K UHD + Blu-ray (Criterion)

Branded to Kill | 4K UHD + Blu-ray (Criterion)

Branded to Kill | 4K UHD + Blu-ray (Criterion)

RELEASE DATE: May 9, 2023

On May 9, 2023, Criterion is releasing the 4K UHD + Blu-ray for Branded to Kill, a 1967 Japanese cult classic from director Seijun Suzuki (The Sleeping Beast Within) and star Joe Shishido (Cruel Gun Story).

Official details:

When Japanese New Wave bad boy Seijun Suzuki delivered this brutal, hilarious, and visually inspired masterpiece to the executives at his studio, he was promptly fired. Branded to Kill tells the ecstatically bent story of a yakuza assassin with a fetish for sniffing steamed rice (the chipmunk-cheeked superstar Joe Shishido) who botches a job and ends up a target himself. This is Suzuki at his most extreme—the flabbergasting pinnacle of his sixties pop-art Continue reading

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Slate (2021) Review

"Slate" Theatrical Poster

“Slate” Theatrical Poster

Director: Jo Bareun
Cast: Ahn Ji-hye, Lee Min Ji, Park Tae San, Jung Jin-woo, Lee Se-ho, Nam I-seul, Jo Sun-ki
Running Time: 100 min. 

By Paul Bramhall

It could be argued that the swordplay movie has never really fallen out of fashion in Asian cinema, with each decade bringing about a reinvention of the genre in one way or another. Be it Patrick Tam’s The Sword in the 1980’s, Tsui Hark’s The Blade in the 1990’s, Ang Lee’s Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon in the 2000’s, or Keishi Otomo’s Rurouni Kenshin series in the 2010’s. Korea has also got in on the action over the years, with the likes of 2005’s Shadowless Sword, 2010’s Blades of Blood, and most recently 2020’s The Swordsman being superior examples of the genre. While the quality of the countries independent action productions ranges from entertaining (Geochilmaru: The Showdown) to dire (Master Heaven: The Greatest Fighter), the gamble that dedicating 90 minutes of your life comes with when watching such movies is one I still find myself willing to take.

Which brings me to 2021’s Slate, a 2nd starring vehicle for gymnast turned actress Ahn Ji-hye (Project Wolf Hunting) after her physically demanding dramatic turn in 2019’s Our Body. After being taken into care as a child due to her alcoholic father being deemed unfit to be a parent, 20 years later Ji-hye’s character is now approaching 30 and struggling to make ends meet as a wannabe action actress. While stunt double roles are readily available, Ji-hye insists on being the heroine of any production she’s cast in, to the point of sliding her CV into a toilet cubicle in which a director of an upcoming action movie is conducting his business. With her sales pitch revolving around Continue reading

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Deal on Fire! Missing in Action Trilogy | Blu-ray | Only $41.49 – Expires soon!

Today’s Deal on Fire is for Kino Lorber’s 3-Disc Blu-ray Collection for the Missing in Action Trilogy. This collection features the three action-packed Missing in Action classics starring screen legend Chuck Norris (Slaughter in San Francisco, Code of Silence). The titles will also be available individually.

Read the official details:

Missing in Action (1984) – American servicemen are being held captive in Vietnam, and only one man can bring them home in this blistering, fast-paced action/adventure starring martial arts superstar Chuck Norris. Colonel James Braddock (Norris), armed with top-secret information and state-of-the-art weaponry, is prepared to blast Continue reading

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New Trailer for the Soi Cheang-produced thriller ‘Cyber Heist’ starring Aaron Kwok, Simon Yam and Gordon Lam

"Cyber Heist" Theatrical Poster

“Cyber Heist” Theatrical Poster

Danny Wong, director of 2019’s I’m Livin’ It, returns with his sophomore effort, Cyber Heist, an upcoming Soi Cheang Pou Soi-produced (SPL II) action thriller starring Aaron Kwok (Project Gutenberg), Simon Yam (Black Cat) and Gordon Lam (Z Storm).

In the film, a computer expert (Kwok) accidentally falls into the conspiracy of online financial crime and has to seize the time to participate in the struggle.

Co-starring in Cyber Heist are Patrick Tam (Fatal Raid), Kenny Wong (Cross), Kathy Yuen (Detective vs. Sleuths) and Ray Lui (Raging Fire).

It should be mentioned that this isn’t the first time Aaron Kwok played a “computer expert”. He previously played one in Gordon Continue reading

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Kim Hong-Sun’s brutal thriller ‘Project Wolf Hunting’ hits Blu-ray & DVD on Valentine’s Day from Well Go USA

Project Wolf Hunting | Blu-ray (Well Go USA)

Project Wolf Hunting | Blu-ray (Well Go USA)

On February 14, 2023, Well Go USA is releasing the Blu-ray & DVD for Kim Hong-Sun’s Project Wolf Hunting (read our review).

Kim Hong-Sun, the filmmaker behind 2012’s Traffickers and 2019’s Metamorphosis, is back with Project Wolf Hunting, which is getting a theatrical release from Well Go USA on October 7th, following its September 21st domestic release.

This upcoming thriller follows a group of dangerous criminals being transported by sea from the Philippines to South Korea. After a coordinated jailbreak attempt escalates into a bloody, all-out riot against the special agents charged with the transport, the fugitives and their allies from the outside Continue reading

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Yakuza Graveyard | Bu-ray (Radiance Films)

Yakuza Graveyard | Bu-ray (Radiance Films)

Yakuza Graveyard | Bu-ray (Radiance Films)

RELEASE DATE: May 15, 2023

On May 15, 2023, Radiance Films is releasing the Blu-ray (Region A/B) for Yakuza Graveyard, a 1976 classic gangster film from legendary Japanese filmmaker, Kinji Fukasaku (The Green Slime, Battle Royale, Doberman Cop).

Official details:

Description: When he falls for the beautiful wife of the jailed boss of the Nishida gang, things start to spiral out of control for detective Kuroiwa (Tetsuya Watari, Graveyard of Honour). In a world where the line between police and organised crime is vague, he finds himself on the wrong side of a yakuza war when his superiors favour Nishida’s rivals, the Yamashiro gang. Co-starring the iconic Meiko Continue reading

Posted in Asian Titles, DVD/Blu-ray New Releases, News |

Deep Trap (2015) Review

"Deep Trap" Theatrical Poster

“Deep Trap” Theatrical Poster

Director: Kwon Hyung-Jin
Cast: Ma Dong-Seok, Jo Han-Sun, Kim Min-Kyung, Ji An, Yoon Joo, Kwon Bum-Taek, Kim Dong-Hyun, Min Kyung-Jin, Jeong Gi-Seop, Kang Seung-Wan
Running Time: 96 min.

By Paul Bramhall

In the Korean film industry the mid-budget genre piece has become increasingly rare in recent years, with the international success of 2019’s Parasite and the 2021 Netflix series Squid Game seemingly widening the gap when it comes to production budgets. These days the biggest budgets tend to go to the most mainstream productions with potential crossover appeal, while smaller budgeted indie productions increasingly focus on hard edged tales of social woe and gritty realism. The result is that we no longer see as many modestly budgeted genre pieces like 2015’s Deep Trap, which is a shame as the creative talent behind them are surely still there.

In the case of Deep Trap the talent in the director’s chair is Kwon Hyeong-jin, and the production would mark his final time (as of the time of writing) to direct a full-length feature since his debut with My Piano in 2006. In between he’d helm the 2008 thriller Truck, swiftly followed by the drama Wedding Dress in 2010, marking his filmography as that of a reliable journeyman director that could be banked on to create entertaining slices of mid-budget cinema Continue reading

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Sativa vs Indica: What’s the Difference?

If you are new to cannabis, choosing the right strain for your needs can be overwhelming. There are many different types of cannabis, with new ones being created constantly.

The most well-known variants of cannabis are Sativa and Indica. It can be challenging to tell the two apart because they look similar and suit similar purposes. They have subtle differences, though.

Are you interested to know the differences between the two? Then keep reading as we discuss the differences between Sativa vs Indica.

Understanding the Origins of Sativa and Indica

Sativa and Indica are two distinct strains of cannabis. The origins of each strain can be traced back to different climates of the world.

Sativa strains originated in warm climates such as Mexico, South and Central America, and Southeast Asia. They thrive in warm, humid climates. In contrast, Indica strains are native to the cool, dry climates of the Indian subcontinent, Central Asia, and Tibet.

Exploring Visible Qualities and Characteristics

Generally speaking, Sativa plants are taller, with longer and thinner leaves. They can grow up to 20 feet in height and often have a lighter green fleshy texture with darker green veins.

Meanwhile, Indica plants are shorter and bushier. They typically grow to 3-6 feet tall with heavier, darker green flesh. The leaves of Indica plants often have a wider, more blunt shape with fewer veins.

Additionally, the two varieties flower differently. Sativa has longer, more spear-like, buds, whereas Indica produces a rounder, denser flower clusters.

Distinctions in Aroma and Taste Between Sativa vs Indica

Sativa and Indica are two distinct varieties of cannabis that have very different aromas and flavors. Sativa plants generally have a sweet, pungent, and fruity aroma, while Indica plants smell earthier, muskier, and spicier.

In terms of taste, Sativa-dominant strains are usually more herbal and fruity, while the taste of Indica-dominant strains tends to be more earthy and skunky. However, their taste and aroma are both subjective and can be affected by other factors, such as curing and growing methods.

Different Uses for Each Species

Sativa strain is typically associated with an uplifted, energetic, and creative feeling. It can be great for providing energy, increasing focus and creativity, and even combatting feelings of fatigue.

Indica strain, however, is categorized as having a range of calming properties. It can help increase focus, relaxation, and sleep. It is excellent for people looking for a way to wind down in the evening or if you’re looking for a more sedative experience.

When selecting between the two, it is essential to consider the desired effects you are looking to get and the situation that you are in. Consider Shopping at harvesthoc.com, as they have a wide selection of Sativa and Indica strains. You can find here the perfect one for your needs.

Pick the Right Strain for Your Needs

When deciding between Sativa vs Indica, it depends upon what effects you want to experience. Both have unique properties that cater to different needs.

Before use, check the strain’s effects to ensure you choose the right strain for your desired experience. Try one of each and discover the unique effects for yourself.

What are you waiting for? Grab some Sativa for a boost of energy or Indica to stay chill and enjoy the gift of cannabis!

Did you find this article helpful? Please keep browsing our blog for more.

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