Cracking the Code of Spy Movies!
Cracking the Code of Spy Movies podcast - your premiere source for decoding spy movies from classisc to James Bond and current! Your field operatives Dan and Tom dig deep and analyze key scenes, uncover key connections, present detailed reviews, interview cast and crew, host special guests so that you discover something new in every episode and enhance your viewing experience of any spy movie covered. Discover something new in every episode! “If you’re a spy movie fan, you’re going to really enjoy these. The hosts make it fun and offer some fascinating trivia about the movies we all love.” - Apple listener Social: Follow them on • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpyMovieNavigator • X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/SpyNavigator • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spymovienavigator/
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Raymond Benson, Bond author, talks his new book on Felix Leiter
04/22/2025
Raymond Benson, Bond author, talks his new book on Felix Leiter
In this episode, Dan and Tom bring in a special guest. Join us as Raymond Benson, Bond author, talks his new book on Felix Leiter. Novels are being written about some of the non-James Bond characters from the Ian Fleming James Bond novels. To that end, Raymond Benson, who was the first American James Bond continuation author, is getting set to release his latest book, “The Hook and the Eye”. This is a book about Felix Leiter after his shark attack. The book will be released initially as an e-book serial starting on May 27, 2025, with a paper book release in October. This sounds like a fun book and having the Felix Leiter character getting a story of his own sounds very intriguing! Some of the topics we discuss with Raymond include: · Raymond’s background and how he got started with all of his James Bond work · How the James Bond literary world has evolved · Why Raymond chose to do a book on Felix Leiter · How Felix Leiter is different in the Ian Fleming novels compared to the Eon Productions movies · How you will be able to get the book, “The Hook and the Eye” · And More … Tell us what you think about our discussion as Raymond Benson, Bond author, talks his new book on Felix Leiter. So, take a listen and let us know what you think. Have you previously heard of that Raymond was writing this book? Are you excited to get a novel focused on Felix Leiter? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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DECISION BEFORE DAWN – Decoded!
04/15/2025
DECISION BEFORE DAWN – Decoded!
Join Dan and Tom as they decode the 1951 World War II spy movie DECISION BEFORE DAWN. It was the first spy movie nominated for the Best Motion Picture Academy Award. And we think it is likely that you never heard of it. So, take a listen and we’ll decode this one for you. There is a lot of realism in the movie, and we will highlight some of the real-world things that they adapted for this movie. DECISION BEFORE DAWN was one of the first post-World War II movies that tried to humanize the regular German citizen, not the NAZI party. In addition, DECISION BEFORE DAWN was the breakout role for the wonderful actor Oskar Werner. Some of the topics we decode from this movie include: · Enough of the plot to get you started · The cast and their roles · How realistic was this movie? · How did the battle-worn towns look so accurate? · The direction, cinematography, and production design · A real-world connection between the movie and Oskar Werner’s life · Memorable scenes · What future spy movies were likely influenced by this one? · What line likely inspired a line from M in the James Bond movie SPECTRE? · What are the positives and negatives of the movie? · And More … Tell us what you think about our decoding of the 1951 movie DECISION BEFORE DAWN. So, take a listen and let us know what you think. Have you previously heard of this movie or even watched it? If not, did this episode entice you to watch it? If you have seen it, do you agree with Dan and Tom’s opinions? Dan and Tom disagree a little about this movie. Who do you agree with? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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THE AMATEUR Review - No-Spoilers!
04/11/2025
THE AMATEUR Review - No-Spoilers!
Join Dan and Tom as they give you their no-spoiler review of the just-released spy movie, THE AMATEUR, starring Rami Malek and Laurence Fishburne. Our goal is to give you the information you need to see if watching THE AMATEUR is worth your time and money. Listen to find out what we think. THE AMATEUR is a remake of the 1981 movie which starred John Savage. The cast is excellent with Malek, Fishburne, Rachel Brosnahan, Julianne Nicholson, Michael Stuhlbarg, Jon Bernthal, Holt McCallany, Adrian Martinez, and more. Some of the topics we discuss include in this review are: · Enough of the plot to get you started, without spoilers · The cast and their roles · Do we think Rami Malek was better in this role than when he played Safin in NO TIME TO DIE? · The direction, cinematography, and production design · Where is the SKY POOL? · Our favorite scenes (while not spoiling anything) · The pacing of the movie · What worked · What didn’t · Does it work on IMAX? · And More … We’ve also included some comments from other people who watched this movie when we did. Listen to find out what they say. Tell us what you think about our review of THE AMATEUR (2025) So, take a listen and let us know what you think. Have you previously heard of this movie or even watched it? If not, did this episode entice you to watch it? If you have seen it, do you agree with Dan and Tom’s opinions? Dan and Tom disagree a little about this movie. Who do you agree with? And, have you seen the 1981 original? Which version do you like best? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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Timothy Dalton as James Bond - The Good the Bad and Unique
04/08/2025
Timothy Dalton as James Bond - The Good the Bad and Unique
Dan and Tom decode the Timothy Dalton as James Bond. What was the Good, the Bad, and Unique of his performance? What worked and didn’t work well?Listen to find out. Timothy Dalton only played James Bond movies in two movies, THE LIVING DAYLIGHTS and LICENCE TO KILL. He brought a much different James Bond to the screen than his predecessor. Reactions were mixed as some people didn’t want this change. We break down Timothy Dalton’s James Bond movies by looking at: · How did Timothy Dalton change the role? · How did Dalton taking the role change the writers? · What the writers originally wanted to do with Dalton’s first Bond movie? · How did the villains in Timothy Dalton’s movies pan out? · How did the Bond women change in Dalton’s movies? · What is the tie-in to Kara Milovy and Ian Fleming? · What was unique about Dario? · What was unique about the plot of LICENCE TO KILL? · Where does Timothy Dalton rank as James Bond by different types of James Bond movie fans? · We rank Moore’s James Bond movies and tell you why each is ranked where it is. · And More … We found some facts you may not have known before. Please listen to find out. Tell us what you think about Timothy Dalton as James Bond So, take a listen and let us know what you think. How do you rank the actors who played James Bond? Where do you have Timothy Dalton’s Bond movies ranked? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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The Good the Bad and Unique of Roger Moore as James Bond
04/01/2025
The Good the Bad and Unique of Roger Moore as James Bond
Dan and Tom decode the Good the Bad and Unique of Roger Moore as James Bond. What worked and didn’t work well? What made him a unique Bond? Listen to find out. Roger Moore helmed seven James Bond movies. Some were well-received, and others were not. He had a very different style compared to what we saw with Sean Connery and George Lazenby. We break down Roger Moore’s James Bond movies by looking at: · How did Roger Moore’s career before Bond influence how Moore played Bond? · What did Roger Moore change about the James Bond character? · What did Roger Moore think about guns and violence? · How many times did he order a martini “shaken, not stirred”? · Cigar or cigarette? · How much older was Moore than his lovers in A VIEW TO A KILL? · Was Roger Moore too old to play James Bond in A VIEW TO A KILL? · Where does Roger Moore rank as James Bond by different types of James Bond movie fans? · We rank Moore’s James Bond movies and tell you why each is ranked where it is. · And more … We had fun putting this one together. Listen to find out more. Tell us what you think about Roger Moore as James Bond So, take a listen and let us know what you think. How do you rank the actors who played James Bond? Where do you have Roger Moore’s movies? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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James Bond Women: Survive or die? How often did Bond fail?
03/25/2025
James Bond Women: Survive or die? How often did Bond fail?
There are two types of James Bond women in the movies: those who died and those who survived. Is there a pattern here? Does it matter if James Bond is romantically involved with them? How about if he is protecting them? We know Bond fails a fair amount trying to keep them alive. In this episode, Dan and Tom examine each of the women that James Bond either was romantic with or protected in the movies. We answer the question: did they survive or die? Plus, we answer the question, how many died and how many survived across the series? The answers may surprise you. We break down each movie-based James Bond women by looking at the following: Was James Bond her lover? Or was he their protector? Maybe he was both. How many women died and survived for each actor playing James Bond? Who are some of the women you may have missed or forgotten about? And More … Was the death count ratio different between the various actors who played James Bond? And what does Meatloaf have to do with any of this? This is an intriguing examination of this fascinating topic. Listen to find out more. Tell us what you think about our decoding James Bond Women in the movies. So, take a listen and let us know what you think. Did we miss any women? Did the number of women who died surprise you? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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HOPSCOTCH (1980) Decoded!
03/18/2025
HOPSCOTCH (1980) Decoded!
Join Dan and Tom as they decode the 1980 spy movie HOPSCOTCH. It has a star-studded cast and is a comedy. But, is it worth a watch? Listen to find out. Walter Matthau plays the spy, Miles Kendig who has a run in with his boss. What happens next helps set up the reason for the name of the movie, HOPSCOTCH. The other lead actors for the movie include Glenda Jackson, Ned Beatty, and Sam Waterston. Some of the topics we discuss include in this review are: · The origin of the big-tent Oktoberfest halls · How the Oktoberfest scene was filmed · The music and its importance to the movie – Why Mozart? · Walter Matthau’s influence on the script and casting · The cast and their roles · What movies may have influenced some of the scenes? · The director and screenwriter · The comedy · Who was it that flew the seaplane and why her dialogue with Kendrig was so funny. · Positive and negative critiques of HOPSCOTCH · The pacing of the movie · And More … Tell us what you think about our decoding of HOPSCOTCH So, take a listen and let us know what you think. Have you previously heard of this movie or even watched it? If not, did this episode entice you to watch it? If you have seen it, do you agree with Dan and Tom’s opinions? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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BLACK BAG Review – No Spoilers!
03/14/2025
BLACK BAG Review – No Spoilers!
Join Dan and Tom as they give you their no-spoiler review of the just-released spy movie: BLACK BAG. Our goal is to give you the information you need to see if watching BLACK BAG is worth your time and money. Listen to find out what they think. BLACK BAG is a spy movie, not an action movie. What does that mean? Well, think of TINKER TAILOR SOLDIER SPY or THE SPY WHO CAME IN FROM THE COLD. Those were spy movies, not action movies. BLACK BAG is not reminiscent of a James Bond or Ethan Hunt spy movie. The cast is excellent with Michael Fassbender, Cate Blanchett, Tom Burke, Marisa Abela, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris, and Pierce Brosnan. Some of the topics we discuss include in this review are: · How this is a different type of spy movie · The Cast and their roles · What movies may have influenced some of the scenes? · The direction, cinematography, and production design · What sets looked best · Our favorite scenes (while not spoiling anything) · The pacing of the movie · And More … We’ve also included some comments from other people who watched this movie when we did. They don’t all have the same opinion of this movie. Listen to find out what they say. Tell us what you think about our review of BLACK BAG So, take a listen and let us know what you think. Have you previously heard of this movie or even watched it? If not, did this episode entice you to watch it? If you have seen it, do you agree with Dan and Tom’s opinions? Dan and Tom disagree a little about this movie. Who do you agree with? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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BACKGROUND TO DANGER - Decoded!
03/11/2025
BACKGROUND TO DANGER - Decoded!
Join Dan and Tom as they decode the 1943 spy movie BACKGROUND TO DANGER starring George Raft, Brenda Marshall, Peter Lorre, and Sydney Greenstreet. Is it worth a watch? We decode all that for you! In this black-and-white World War II spy movie, everyone wants to get their hands on an envelope that contains something strategic for the war. What’s in it? What do they want it for? There are some fun twists in this movie that we don’t give away. Dan and Tom have a similar opinion on this movie, but don’t agree on some of the aspects of the production. Enhance your viewing experience – take a listen! Some of the topics we discuss include: The basic plot How real-world events are used enhance the story Scenes from other spy movies that may have influenced this one The screenplay The excellent cast The Peter Lorre and Sydney Greenstreet connection The direction The set design (Dan and Tom don’t fully agree here) The score The train scenes (this is a spy movie!) And More … Tell us what you think about our decoding of BACKGROUND TO DANGER So, take a listen and let us know what you think. Have you previously heard of this movie or even watched it? If not, did this episode entice you to watch it? If you have seen it, do you agree with Dan and Tom’s opinions? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage: Links to BACKGROUND TO DANGER trailer:
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1960s JAMES BOND POSTERS - The Hidden Gems and Sex
03/04/2025
1960s JAMES BOND POSTERS - The Hidden Gems and Sex
James Bond movie posters are very popular with collectors. And of course, it all started in the 1960s. Join Dan and Tom as they welcome the founder and editor of 007 Magazine, Graham Rye to help decode the 1960s James Bond posters. We are very happy that Graham was able to join us. His knowledge of 40 years of James Bond that he has acquired by creating 007 Magazine is amazing. How much about these posters do you REALLY know? This is one of our episodes where we can predict you will hear something you didn’t know before. DR. NO, FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE, GOLDFINGER, THUNDERBALL, YOU ONLY LIVE TWICE, and ON HER MAJESTY’S SECRET SERVICE all had very distinctive posters, lobby cards, door panels and more created to market each movie. But, what’s behind those posters? Some of the things we look at include: The difference between British and American posters The action portrayed The composition of the figure of Sean Connery’s James Bond on the cover of DR. NO Who the talented artists were behind these posters You can find 007 Magazine here: The amount of information they have is staggering. Tell us what you think about our discussion of the 1960s James Bond posters So, did you learn anything new about the 1960s James Bond movie posters? Let us know what was new to you. Also, please let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage: https://bit.ly/4brh8YQ
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THE EAGLE HAS LANDED – Decoded!
02/25/2025
THE EAGLE HAS LANDED – Decoded!
Kidnapping Winston Churchill during WW II is the plot of the 1976 movie, THE EAGLE HAS LANDED. Yes, the plot sounds intriguing, but is it based on a true mission? We know about failed assassination attempts on Churchill, Hitler, and Mussolini. But what about a kidnapping? Dan and Tom decode this fun spy movie. What works and what doesn’t in this movie? They examine the following from THE EAGLE HAS LANDED: · Is THE EAGLE HAS LANDED a spy movie? · The stellar cast (Michael Caine, Robert Duvall, and Donald Sutherland are the stars) · The Production value · The Score (listen to find out who the composer was) · What earlier movies may have influenced this movie · The good about this movie · The bad about this movie · What stuntman ended up shooting himself – (you have to listen to realize this isn’t what these words appear to say) · Who originally landed the lead role of Colonel Steiner? · Parallels and differences to the movie INGLOURIOUS BASTERDS · And much more … So, with this script, this cast, and the production team, THE EAGLE HAS LANDED must be a fantastic movie, right? Listen as Dan and Tom give you their thoughts. Tell us what you think about the decoding of THE EAGLE HAS LANDED Have you seen this movie? If not, does this decoding make you want to watch it? If you have seen it, what things that Dan and Tom talked about do you agree or disagree with? And, do YOU think it is a spy movie? Also, please let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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Amazon/MGM Get Creative Control of James Bond movies - Fan Reactions
02/21/2025
Amazon/MGM Get Creative Control of James Bond movies - Fan Reactions
There was big news in the world of James Bond today! Amazon/MGM get creative control of James Bond movies from EON Productions. For some of us, it was our biggest fear for the franchise. For others, it is a welcome change. And still others just aren’t sure. In this episode, we start by giving you the basics of the announcement, including comments from Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli. Then we give you James Bond fan’s unedited comments on this huge change to the franchise. (And there are a lot of widely varied opinions here.) So, let us know where you are with this announcement. Does it hurt. Are you happy. Do you just want to wait-and-see? Please let us know your thoughts. Tell us what you think about the deal that let Amazon/MGM get creative control of James Bond Does one of these fan’s comments mirror your thoughts? Do you disagree with anyone? Let us know! Also, please let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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Fan-Favorite Scenes from James Bond Movies
02/18/2025
Fan-Favorite Scenes from James Bond Movies
Join Dan and Tom as they decode the James Bond movie’s fan-favorite scenes. We know that different James Bond movie fans have their favorite movies and scenes from these movies. Not everyone likes them all. Often, we find that the first James Bond movie you saw heavily influences your reaction to the scenes. In this episode, we go through each Eon Productions James Bond movie and call out the fan favs from each of them. Here is just a sample of the scenes we discuss. You’ll hear the whole list by listening to this episode: · DR. NO – the introduction of “Bond, James Bond” · FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE – The Gypsy Camp · ON HER MAJESTY’S SECRET SERVICE – The attack on Piz Gloria · LIVE AND LET DIE – Escaping over the gators · OCTOPUSSY – The clown outfit · THE LIVING DAYLIGHTS – The cello case escape · LICENCE TO KILL – A great use for a gift · CASINO ROYALE – Bond's torture by Le Chiffre · SKYFALL – M's demise · And more …. This list isn’t exhaustive and is here to highlight some of the scenes we call out. There are many more to dive into. So, take a listen and see what you think. Do you agree? Tell us what you think about our list of the James Bond movie’s fan favorite scenes So, take a listen and let us know what you think. Do you have a favorite scene in a James Bond movie we didn’t highlight? Let us know! Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage: https://bit.ly/41kqJgE
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Rachel Grant Interview - she played “Peaceful Fountains of Desire” in the James Bond movie DIE ANOTHER DAY
02/11/2025
Rachel Grant Interview - she played “Peaceful Fountains of Desire” in the James Bond movie DIE ANOTHER DAY
Join Dan and Tom for this Rachel Grant interview. We discuss Rachel’s role as “Peaceful Fountains of Desire” in the James Bond movie DIE ANOTHER DAY and more. Rachel Grant is an actress, a mother, a travel expert, and a very high-energy interviewee. Rachel’s most famous role was in DIE ANOTHER DAY and we talk about her experience in the James Bond world. We also discuss other movies and series in which she has appeared. Finally, we talk about raising a toddler and some of her charity work. Some of the topics we discuss include: · DIE ANOTHER DAY o Rachel’s role as “Peaceful Fountains of Desire” o What it was like to work with Pierce Brosnan. o Who’s hand pulls the gun from her thigh o What direction did director Lee Tomahori give her? o Where did that eye-popping dress come from o Why did Halle Berry’s shooting schedule change? · The movie she went blonde with blue eyes · Is she a stunt performer? · What did she use for nunchucks in the series “Starhyke”? · What is the charity she is working on now? · And more …. This interview is very high-energy and was a blast to create. There is a lot to decode, so take a listen to enhance your viewing experience as new things are discovered – worth a watch? Take a listen! Are you in? Tell us what you think about our discussion with Tom Whiteman about these OSS weapons So, take a listen and let us know what you think. Have you seen Rachel in any of her other movies or TV series? If so, what did you think of her performance? Were there any other movies you think influenced this one that we didn’t mention? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage: https://bit.ly/4hoUZfV
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OSS Weapons with Tom Whiteman
02/04/2025
OSS Weapons with Tom Whiteman
Dan and Tom bring back Tom Whiteman from Legacy-Collectibles.com to talk about some of the OSS weapons that were created to help the first U.S. spy agency in WW II. We talked with Mr. Whiteman in an earlier episode where we discussed James Bond’s assigned pistol, the Walther PPK. OSS morphed into the CIA! Tom gives us the background of these weapons, if the weapon was ever used, the pros and cons of the weapon, and a very interesting background on a knife in an OSS Agent’s possession. What spy movies and TV shows can you watch to see some of these weapons? Take a listen! Some of the weapons we discuss include: The Beano grenade The Liberator pistol The Colt model 1903 snub nose revolver A spring-loaded baton The FitzGerald revolver The OSS Stiletto (Pancake Flipper) And more …. Covert operations weapons offer a lot to decode, so take a listen! Tell us what you think about our discussion with Tom Whiteman of these OSS weapons So, take a listen and let us know what you think. Have you heard of any of these? If so, have you used one? Which one of these weapons do you think would have been the most effective. Have you seen any of these weapons in a spy movie, TV show, or streaming series? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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THE IN-LAWS Decoded!
01/28/2025
THE IN-LAWS Decoded!
Dan and Tom decode the 1979 comedy spy movie THE IN-LAWS. This movie stars Peter Falk and Alan Arkin. Plus they compare it to the 2003 remake with the same name. The 1979 version of THE IN-LAWS is a classic comedy spy movie. But, the 2003 version is not held in the same high regard. Why is that? Take a listen to find out more about the 1979 version. Why does it work? And, what works and what doesn’t work in the 2003 remake. Some of the details we examine include: An overview of the plot The casting The chemistry between the two lead actors and their characters In what other movies have we seen some similar scenes as we see in THE IN-LAWS? How do they mislead the viewer as to Vince’s role in the beginning of the movie? What does Michael Lembeck, who played Tommy, have in common with Albert Brooks, other than appearing in a version of THE IN-LAWS. The success and failures of the casting in the 2003 version – Tom and Dan disagree here What was better and what was worse in the 2003 version? And more …. There is a lot to decode, so take a listen to enhance your viewing experience as new things are discovered – worth a watch? Take a listen! Are you in? Tell us what you think about our decoding of THE IN-LAWS So, take a listen and let us know what you think. Have you seen THE IN-LAWS? If so, what did you think of it? Were there any other movies you think influenced this one that we didn’t mention? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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BACK IN ACTION No Spoiler Review
01/21/2025
BACK IN ACTION No Spoiler Review
Dan and Tom give you their no-spoiler review of the just released Netflix spy movie BACK IN ACTION. And they don’t agree on this one. Listen to hear why. This is the movie where Cameron Diaz returns to acting after a 10-year hiatus. So, she’s now back in action. And like in her last movie, she’s teaming up with Jaimie Foxx. So, without giving away the movie, we talkthrough what we thought worked and didn’t work. Some of the details we examine include: · What worked · What didn’t work · The marketing tagline · The cast · The soundtrack · The chemistry between the two lead actors and their characters · Some of the good lines of dialogue in the movie · In what other movies have we seen some similar scenes to the ones we see in BACK IN ACTION? · Areas of disagreement between Dan and Tom as to if we thought this was worth your time. · And more …. There is a lot to examine, so take a listen to enhance your viewing experience as you watch this new spy movie. Is it worth a watch? Are you in? Tell us what you think about our review of BACK IN ACTION. So, take a listen and let us know what you think. Have you seen BACK IN ACTION? If so, what did you think of it? Do you agree with Dan or Tom? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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Spy Movie News January 14 2025 – James Bond news, Christopher Nolan’s movie, BLACK BAG, and more!
01/14/2025
Spy Movie News January 14 2025 – James Bond news, Christopher Nolan’s movie, BLACK BAG, and more!
Join Dan for our Spy Movie News January 14 2025 edition. First, a mystery we’ve mentioned in the last couple of Spy Movie News briefings about the upcoming Christopher Nolan Project is resolved! Then we talk about some issues between EON Productions and Amazon, take a look at spy series that have been cancelled or renewed, some upcoming spy movies and series, and then wrap with a tip of the hat to some industry workers who have passed in the last month. Some of the shows we discuss include: · “The Old Man” · “A Man on the Inside” · “The Day of the Jackal” · “Mr. And Mrs. Smith” · “Black Doves · "The Night Agent” · "The Agency” · “Citadel” · “The Recruit” · BLACK BAG · "The Secret World of James Bond” · And more … Tell us what you think about the January 14 2025 edition of SPY MOVIE NEWS. Do any of these upcoming shows excite you? If so, let us know which ones. Also, if you have any thoughts about the format of Spy Movie News, we’d love to hear those thoughts. Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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2024 Year in Review and Beyond!
01/07/2025
2024 Year in Review and Beyond!
Dan and Tom give us their 2024 year in review for and their podcast . They talk about some of the spy movies they decoded last year. In some cases, they give a synopsis of the movie. You may discover an episode that decoded a movie you are interested in, or didn’t know you were interested in until you heard this episode. Remember their goal is to provide you with information that will enhance your movie viewing experience. Some of the items they discuss in the 2024 year in review include: · How many spy movies they decoded in 2024 and since they started · Who some of the people they interviewed are · Some of the spy movies of which Dan and Tom had differing opinions · The episodes they call out about specific movies a spy movie fan should see · What is a character spotlight, and which ones have they done · What Luciana Paluzzi told Dan and Tom about their interview after it was over · What old TV series they decoded · What’s new on the website · Events they attended · And much more ... Tell us what you think about our 2024 Year in Review What did you think of this episode? Did you hear about any episodes you missed that you now want to listen to? Are there other spy movies you’d like us to decode? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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A Man on the Inside and THE MOLE AGENT Decoded!
12/26/2024
A Man on the Inside and THE MOLE AGENT Decoded!
Netflix released the series “A Man on the Inside” which was based on the Oscar Nominated Chilean documentary “The Mole Agent”. In this episode, Dan and Tom decode these two shows. In both of these shows a “spy” is on a mission in a retirement community. Besides discussing the shows themselves, they also break down the similarities and differences between them. In this episode we discuss: What was real in the documentary? What wasn’t? Who Sergio is in real life? How the documentary was filmed The spy gadgets used in both shows The role of the family in both shows The actors in “A Man on the Inside” Some of the emotional impact of the story How the cinematography differed And More … Dan and Tom disagree about whether this is a spy story. Take a listen to find out why. Tell us what you think. Have you watched A Man on the Inside or The Mole Agent? If you’ve seen either or both of these shows, what are your thoughts? Do you think this a spy story? Should Dan and Tom release similar decoding episodes? Which order did you watch them? Did you like the documentary or the series better? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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What Makes James Bond the Best MI6 Agent?
12/17/2024
What Makes James Bond the Best MI6 Agent?
Dan and Tom decode what makes James Bond the best MI6 Agent. We’ve heard M refer to James Bond as the best agent, but what are the reasons he is the best? Is it his training? Loyalty? Survival skills? Or is it something else? Listen to find out! We cover it all, with examples from the James Bond movies where the attributes discussed are displayed! From: James Bond’s combat proficiency His marksmanship Driving expertise Technical skills Survival skills Bond’s resourcefulness His loyalty and patriotism And much more … We touch on some of Ian Fleming’s James Bond novels as well. Find out what makes Bond best! Tell us what you think. What makes James Bond the Best MI6 Agent? We gave you our list. Did we miss any? Are there any on our list that you disagree with? What’s your list? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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Luciana Paluzzi talks James Bond, Fiona Volpe and her career!
12/10/2024
Luciana Paluzzi talks James Bond, Fiona Volpe and her career!
Luciana Paluzzi joins Dan and Tom for a wide-ranging interview. This is an interview we've been working to arrange for a while, and we are honored Luciana spent this time with us. And we're happy to be able to share this discussion with you. Luciana’s acting career spanned 3 decades. Although she appeared in multiple spy movies and TV shows, her performance as Fiona Volpe in THUNDERBALL – a stand-out James Bond villain - is her most famous role in the eyes of spy movie fans. Die-hard Paluzzi fans will know that she retired from acting at the age of 41 when she married her husband, Michael Jay Solomon, Did you know that they have been married for 46 years? What’s the original spelling of her last name? Why did she change it? How has Barbara Broccoli been to her? How many grandchildren does she have and what do they call her? In this episode, we discuss: Her amazing career Much about her experience filming her role as Fiona Volpe The “good news” and “bad news” that Cubby Broccoli and Harry Saltzman relayed to her after her audition for THUNDERBALL Some of the James Bond actors she acted with in other movies and TV series What actor from THUNDERBALL she liked working with Conversely, what actor from THUNDERBALL that she didn’t How she got her first acting role How important Terence Young was to her life, not just her career Her family And more …. So, take a listen to this interview. Even if you thought you knew Luciana Paluzzi, you will learn something new in this interview. As she tells us: "I think you're analyzing this to obsession". That’s our goal, learn something new about this wonderful actor. Tell us what you think about our discussion with Luciana Paluzzi As always, let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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James Bond Club Ireland Talks Club and James Bond
12/03/2024
James Bond Club Ireland Talks Club and James Bond
Dan and Tom are joined by board members from James Bond Club Ireland. They discuss the club, its inception, activities, James Bond insights, and more. It’s a fun listen. Many locales have James Bond Clubs. For example, in Ireland, there has been the James Bond Club Ireland for four years. In their discussion, Dan and Tom talk with Club President Paul Lally, Joint Vice-Presidents Kevin O’Callahan and Sean O’Hare, and Treasurer Andy Watson. In this episode, we discuss: · How James Bond Club Ireland was founded. (We think that the way they did it is a good blueprint for other nascent clubs). · The varied activities the Club delivers · The coverage of Ireland (and Northern Ireland) · Club discussion hot-topics like: NO TIME TO DIE, what should be the criteria for the next James Bond, where EON Productions should take the series · Ian Fleming’s James Bond novels · Other spy movies that a James Bond fan may enjoy · And more …. So, take a listen to find out more about this group and find out what a James Bond club is all about. You can find more information about this group on Facebook, YouTube, Bluesky, TikTok, and Instagram. Just search for "James Bond Club Ireland". Tell us what you think about our discussion with James Bond Club Ireland So, are you a member of the James Bond Club Ireland? Can you give us your input on the club? If not, are you a member of a James Bond club anywhere else? If so, what group? What would you like to see your group do differently? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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Spy Movie News November 26 2024
11/26/2024
Spy Movie News November 26 2024
Join Dan for our November 26, 2024, edition of Spy Movie News. We start this episode talking about some news on two existing spy series, some upcoming spy movies and series, some movies that aren’t likely to be getting sequels, and then wrap with a tip of the hat to some industry workers who have passed in the last month. Some of the shows we discuss include: “The Night Agent” “The Day of the Jackal" BONHOEFFER: PASTOR. SPY. ASSASSIN. “The Agency” “Paris Has Fallen” HARBIN BACK IN ACTION Jack Ryan movie “Ponies” BY ANY MEANS “The Spy Coast” BADH Two untitled projects, including a Christopher Nolan movie And more … Tell us what you think about the November 26 2024 edition of SPY MOVIE NEWS. Do any of these upcoming shows excite you? If so, let us know which ones. Also, if you have any thoughts about the format of Spy Movie News, we’d love to hear those thoughts. Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE Decoded
11/19/2024
CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE Decoded
Johnson and Kevin Hart. CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE is a comedy/spy movie. As we’ve talked about in the past, that is a combination that often falls short. It is rare to get an AUSTIN POWERS, THE MAN WHO KNEW TOO LITTLE, or UNDERCOVER BROTHER and you often end up with a wreck like ARGYLLE or NO 1 OF THE SECRET SERVICE. So take a listen to find out which CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE is. Does it work? Here’s the intelligence we decode in CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE: · A high-level look at the plot without giving too much away · Bob Stone’s fanny pack · How earlier movies influenced CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE · Bob Stone’s watch · Why the movie is called CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE · How they were able to give us Dwayne Johnson’s character as a much heavier and 20-year younger version of himself · What works in the movie · What doesn’t work · And more …. There is a lot to decode, so take a listen to enhance your viewing experience as new things are discovered – worth a watch? Take a listen! Are you in? Tell us what you think about our CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE decoding episode So, take a listen and let us know what you think. Have you seen CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE? If so, what did you think of it? Were there any other movies you think influenced this one that we didn’t mention? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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Defending Denise Richards’ performance in THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH
11/12/2024
Defending Denise Richards’ performance in THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH
Can we be defending Denise Richards’ performance in THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH? Denise Richard’s performance has garnered a very wide range of opinions. There are some people who loved her in the role of Dr. Christmas Jones. Others have problems with her casting and her performance. So, Dan and Tom decode her performance in THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH and look at what worked and what didn’t. Some of the areas we examine include: Her character’s complexity Was she a believable nuclear physicist? Was she the right age for the role? Did the script and direction work for her role? Was her character fully developed? What is the correct pronunciation of “nuclear” Did her previous movie and TV roles hinder the public’s acceptance of her in TWINE? How did she do in her action sequences? What did Denise Richards think of the role of Christmas Jones? And more… Tell us what you think: How were we at defending Denise Richards' performance in THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH. So, take a listen and let us know what you think. What are your thoughts on Richards’ performance in TWINE? Do you agree with Dan and Tom? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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CANARY BLACK Decoded!
11/05/2024
CANARY BLACK Decoded!
Amazon recently released the spy movie CANARY BLACK. This movie stars Kate Beckinsale, Rupert Friend, and Ray Stevenson. Is it worth a watch? Join Dan and Tom as they decode CANARY BLACK. It carries an “R” rating here in the U.S., and we think it is earned with the quantity of violence. Dan and Tom disagree with the impact of this violence. For those of you who want to find out what earlier movies may have influenced scenes in this movie, we drill into these scenes. As usual, there are some strong positives as well as some negatives to this movie. In this episode, we discuss: A high-level look at the plot without giving too much away The violence The actors and their characters How earlier spy movies influenced CANARY BLACK The company name of the main character’s cover company The sets A watch A bottle of wine The use of a Double Pursuit And more …. There is a lot to decode, so take a listen to find out why this movie gets mixed reviews and what we think. Tell us what you think about our decoding of CANARY BLACK So, take a listen and let us know what you think. Have you seen CANARY BLACK? If so, what did you think of it? If not, did we give you enough information to help you decide if you want to watch it? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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Spy Movie News October 29 2024 – BOURNE 6, THE AGENCY, GHOST TRAIL, and more!
10/29/2024
Spy Movie News October 29 2024 – BOURNE 6, THE AGENCY, GHOST TRAIL, and more!
Join Dan for our October 29, 2024, edition of Spy Movie News. We start this episode talking about spy entertainment in development, then move on to some industry news, and then wrap with a tip of the hat to some industry workers who have passed in the last month. Then we will look at upcoming, yet-to-be-released movies and shows. Some of the shows we discuss include: THE TRAITOR Two untitled projects, including a Christopher Nolan movie GHOST TRAIL CLASSIFIED SCORPION JASON BOURNE DILEMA INTO THE LION’S MOUTH AGENT 86 A LINE OF FIRE RED ONE KINGSMAN: BLUE BLOOD “The Agency” “Black Doves” “The Day of the Jackal” “Slow Horses” “The Old Man” And more … Tell us what you think about the October 29, 2024 edition of SPY MOVIE NEWS. Do any of these upcoming shows excite you? If so, let us know which ones. Also, if you have any thoughts about the format of Spy Movie News, we’d love to hear those thoughts. Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage: URLS Here are the URLs we either mentioned in the episode or used to develop this episode. These links can provide more background information. –
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ARABESQUE Decoded!
10/22/2024
ARABESQUE Decoded!
ARABESQUE is a 1966 spy movie starring Gregory Peck, Sophia Loren, and Alan Badel. Is it worth a watch? Dan and Tom decode ARABESQUE to enhance your viewing experience – is it worth a watch? There are some very strong positives as well as some negatives to this movie In this episode, we discuss: Why is this movie titled ARABESQUE? Did the cinematography help or hinder the movie? Which role might have been miscast? Was there chemistry between Sophia Loren and her leading male actors? What movies may have influenced ARABESQUE? What movies have ARABESQUE influenced? Was the shower scene funny enough? What did director Stanley Donen think of the script? Sophia Loren’s wardrobe What article of clothing is important to the plot? What famous stunt performer/coordinator had his first role in this movie? The benefit of disavowing a spy And more … As you can see, there is a lot to decode, so take a listen to find out why this movie gets mixed reviews. Some people like it and some don’t. Tell us what you think about our decoding of ARABESQUE So, take a listen and let us know what you think. Have you seen ARABESQUE? If so, what did you think of it? If not, did we give you enough information to help you decide if you want to watch it? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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Pet Peeves of Spy Movie Fans - 6 Fans Speak Out
10/15/2024
Pet Peeves of Spy Movie Fans - 6 Fans Speak Out
What are some of the pet peeves of spy movie fans? Particularly, are there specific things that show up in spy movies that drive fans nuts? Dan and Tom are joined by fans from their Facebook group to try to find out. The members of this group are very devoted spy movie fans, and they don’t hold back on their opinions. And occasionally they don’t agree. We’re joined by Bill Kanas, Morgan Lisney, Pietro Rossi and Eric Seabury. So, listen to what they have to say about: Release Timing The Use of Tropes The Use of Technology (real and unreal) Does the villain matter? Dark vs. Light Plot Twists Romance Subplots CGI And More … Hey spy movie producers: take a listen to find out what spy movie fans REALLY think. Tell us what you think about the Pet Peeves of Spy Movie Fans Now that you’ve heard from some other spy movie fans, let us know what you think. Do you agree or disagree with any of the points made by us and our fans? Did we miss any pet peeves you have about spy movies? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at . The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be! We’ll give you a shout-out in a future episode! You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or . In addition, you can check out our as well. Episode Webpage:
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