What I Didn’t Expect to Find in Man vs. Baby

When people sit down to watch a Rowan Atkinson comedy, they expect slapstick, chaos, and wonderfully awkward moments. Netflix’s Man vs. Baby certainly delivers all of that—but on a closer look, the series also holds surprising Christian themes woven beneath the humor.

While the premise is simple—a man unexpectedly caring for a baby faces escalating challenges—the show uses its comedic structure to highlight deeper truths about compassion, humility, and redemption.


1. Caring for Others: A Modern Parable of Compassion

Throughout the series, Trevor (Rowan Atkinson) repeatedly tries—though imperfectly—to do what is right. Even when everything spirals out of control, his intentions remain rooted in care, especially for the vulnerable child placed in his hands.

This reflects a deeply Christian principle: love is demonstrated not through perfection but through self-giving compassion, especially toward those who cannot repay us. Trevor’s clumsy, heartfelt efforts mirror the biblical call to care for “the least of these.”


2. Hospitality: Welcoming Strangers From the Cold

Another meaningful theme in the show is hospitality. Despite his own struggles, Trevor repeatedly chooses generosity:

  • inviting strangers inside
  • offering warmth and food
  • showing care even when it inconveniences him

These moments echo Scripture’s teachings on welcoming the stranger, reminding viewers that hospitality is a holy act—an outward sign of inward kindness.


3. The Nativity-Like Climax: How the True Meaning of Christmas Shines Through

The closing scene of Man vs. Baby—featuring a life-size nativity—is far more than a comedic flourish. It becomes the emotional and spiritual anchor of the series.

At its core, the true meaning of Christmas is this:

  • God entering the world in humility
  • hope arriving through a child
  • light breaking into ordinary, messy life
  • love choosing vulnerability

The nativity scene in the finale captures these themes beautifully. Trevor, exhausted and humbled, stands amid figures representing Mary, Joseph, and the newborn Jesus—a symbolic reminder that grace often comes in the middle of chaos, not in spite of it.

Here, the comedy of the series gives way to a moment of stillness and reflection. The baby he has spent the entire show trying to protect suddenly becomes a symbol of the very heart of Christmas: that every life has value, that love shows up quietly, and that redemption often begins in the simplest acts of care.

This visual parallel doesn’t just conclude the story—it re-frames it.
The series becomes a modern parable about how unexpectedly holy the everyday moments of compassion can be.


4. Comedy as a Vessel for Spiritual Reflection

What makes Man vs. Baby so effective is that it doesn’t preach. Instead, it uses humor to explore:

  • how compassion grows through trial
  • how humility leads to transformation
  • how caring for others—even clumsily—reflects divine love

In the end, comedy becomes a bridge to spiritual truth.


Conclusion: A Lighthearted Story With a Christmas Heart

Man vs. Baby may look like a simple comedic series about a man caring for a baby in chaotic circumstances, but beneath the laughter lies a tender moral core. Themes of care, hospitality, humility, and redemption shape the story, culminating in a finale that quietly but clearly points to the true meaning of Christmas.

In the life-size nativity scene, the show reminds us that grace often appears in the most unexpected places—and sometimes, as Trevor learns, caring for someone small and fragile can reveal the deepest truths of the season. Man vs. Baby is playing NOW on Netflix.

David Almgren – Two Pastors, Popcorn and A Movie Podcast

Do Your Sheep Know Your Voice?

In the hills of Bethlehem, a young shepherd named David tended his father’s sheep. It may not have been the job he would have chosen for himself, long hours, isolation, and the constant threat of predators—but it was the role he was given. Commissioned by his father Jesse, David accepted his assignment with humility and diligence. In doing so, he revealed something powerful about leadership and care that still speaks to us today: a true shepherd knows his sheep, and his sheep know his voice.

David wasn’t just a caretaker; he was a guardian and a servant. Scripture paints a picture of a young man whose heart was fully engaged in the task before him. When one sheep strayed, David didn’t shrug it off as a minor loss, he went after it. He left the ninety-nine to rescue the one. That relentless pursuit reflects the very heart of God, who values every individual soul and never stops calling us home.

Imagine the moment when that lost sheep, frightened and alone, heard the familiar voice of its shepherd echo across the hillside. It wasn’t the voice of a stranger, it was the voice it trusted. The sheep recognized David’s call and followed it back to safety. That image beautifully captures the kind of connection every leader, pastor, and teacher should seek to build with those they lead.

But shepherding also teaches us something profound about how a leader leads.
A bad shepherd leads from behind, pushing and driving the sheep with pressure and fear. But a good shepherd leads from the front, guiding the flock with confidence, clarity, and presence. When the shepherd is in front, the sheep move forward not because they are forced to, but because they trust the one who is leading them.

And in ancient shepherding culture, young or inexperienced shepherds didn’t learn their role by textbooks or trial and error. A young apprentice shepherd would stay close to the seasoned shepherd, walking beside him day after day. The sheep would see the apprentice right next to the trusted shepherd and, over time, would come to recognize him as well. His authority didn’t come from a title or position, it came from proximity.
The same is true in ministry and leadership. Those who aspire to shepherd others well must spend time near those who already do. The flock learns to trust emerging leaders when they first see them walking in step with those they already know and follow.

As a former kids pastor, I’ve come to see how vital this principle is to ministry. Children, much like sheep, respond not only to what we say but to how well they know us. They listen to voices that are consistent, caring, and familiar. Developing that level of trust takes time, intentionality, and heart. It means showing up, staying engaged, and investing deeply in the lives of those God has placed under your care, and for new leaders, it means staying close enough to seasoned shepherds that children can see they are part of the same trusted team.

There’s another layer of shepherding that’s often overlooked. In ancient times, shepherds used oil to care for their sheep in a practical, protective way. During certain seasons, insects and parasites would attack a sheep’s head and burrow near its eyes and ears, causing irritation, infection, and even death. To protect them, the shepherd would pour oil over the sheep’s head, soothing their wounds and keeping pests away. This simple act of care not only protected the sheep’s health, it also brought them peace.

Spiritually speaking, this picture holds deep significance for anyone called to shepherd others, especially children and families. The “oil” represents the presence and anointing of the Holy Spirit, God’s healing and protective covering. When we take time to pray over our children, encourage their families, and create environments filled with God’s peace, we’re applying spiritual “oil.” We’re helping shield them from the distractions, lies, and “bugs” of this world that seek to cause harm or confusion.

Being a shepherd isn’t glamorous. It requires patience, vigilance, and compassion. It means standing between your flock and the forces that would harm them—whether those threats come in the form of spiritual distraction, discouragement, or doubt. But when your flock knows your voice, when they can sense your love and your faithfulness—they will follow you to safety and growth.

This December 19th, 2025, the animated movie David hits the big screen, offering a vivid and inspiring look at the young shepherd who would one day become Israel’s greatest king. It’s a story of courage, faith, and obedience, a reminder of what it means to lean into the assignments God gives us, even when they seem small or unseen.

As ministry leaders, parents, or mentors, we’re all shepherds in one way or another. We’re called to care for those entrusted to us, to know them by name, and to make our voices familiar and life-giving. And, like the apprentice shepherd, we are also called to learn from those ahead of us, so that in time, others may come to recognize our voice as well.

May we, like David, embrace our calling with humility and persistence.
May we lead from the front, not from behind.
May we walk beside seasoned shepherds as we grow.
May we continually anoint our flock with the oil of prayer, encouragement, and the Spirit’s presence. And may our “sheep” always recognize our voice, a voice that leads them safely home.

David Almgren – Two Pastors, Popcorn and a Movie Podcast



the power of second chances

Do you know someone who is down on their luck? Living with regrets? Wondering if it’s too late to make things right? Whether it’s a string of bad decisions, an unexpected crisis, or just life piling up. We all know people (or are people) who’ve felt like hope was out of reach. But what if the comeback is closer than we think?
I’ve heard powerful stories from my friends at the LA Dream Center, accounts of people who ended up homeless and broken, often because of just a few wrong turns. But time and time again, those same people found a way back.
How? Because someone stepped in. Someone believed in them, encouraged them, and introduced them to hope. It’s been said that just one person who believes in you can change the trajectory of your life and I believe that’s absolutely true.
The idea of second chances isn’t just motivational, it’s deeply biblical. Think about Moses. David. Paul. Peter. These weren’t men who lived spotless lives. They lied. They failed. They even ran from God. But their stories didn’t end in failure. Through God’s mercy, their lives were redeemed and repurposed.
God didn’t define them by their worst moments and He doesn’t define us that way either.
These powerful stories of second chances aren’t limited to real life or the pages of Scripture—they’re also found in cinema. Over the years, faith-based filmmakers have brought hope to life in inspiring ways. Here are just a few standout films that highlight this redemptive theme that God gives us more than just a fresh start, He gives us a new story.


Breakthrough (2019) Based on the true story of John Smith, a teenager who survives a near-fatal drowning. His miraculous recovery becomes a testament to faith and the power of prayer and second chances.
The VeggieTales movie Jonah (2002) playfully yet powerfully illustrates the theme of second chances, reminding viewers that God’s mercy is always available—even when we run the other way.
A New True Story of Redemption
This fall, another inspiring story hits the big screen nationwide called “The Senior”.
No, it’s not about a retirement home. It’s the true story of a former college football star who, at age 59, gets a second chance—at life, at redemption, and with the game he loves. It’s a powerful reminder that no one is ever too far gone or too old for a comeback.
Be a Messenger of Hope
As leaders in our churches and communities, we have the opportunity and the responsibility to be purveyors of hope. You never know who’s quietly waiting for someone to believe in them. Maybe you are the person God wants to use to ignite a second chance in someone’s life. So keep your eyes open. Speak life. Be bold with your encouragement. And never underestimate the power of believing in someone who feels forgotten. Because sometimes, all it takes is one voice to turn a broken past into a redeemed future.

Dave Almgren – Faithandfamilyfilms.info and Two Pastors Popcorn and a Movie Podcast.

A New larryboy movie – Is it True?

Hey everyone! Big news for VeggieTales fans—especially those who love our favorite suction cup-eared superhero, LarryBoy! I heard that Big Idea Content Group announced a brand-new LARRYBOY theatrical movie coming soon! And according to IMDBPro, the title of the new movie is LarryBoy Begins. That’s right, It looks like LarryBoy is finally making his big-screen debut!

“VeggieTales has always been the gold standard for faith-based kids’ animation,” says Art Ayris. “And there’s no better way to bring that magic to theaters than putting LarryBoy and all those classic VeggieTales characters front and center again.”

The VeggieTales franchise is the most successful faith-based children’s series ever, with over $1.7 billion in retail sales. And Big Idea has already released two theatrical films—Jonah: A VeggieTales Movie back in 2002 and The Pirates Who Don’t Do Anything in 2008—earning over $39 million at the box office combined. This new LarryBoy Begins film will continue that legacy with the faith-friendly storytelling, wacky humor, and silly songs fans have come to love.

The cast features familiar voices, including Mike Nawrocki as Larryboy, Kirk Cameron as the Barber, and many others voices returning to bring new and old characters to life.

“LarryBoy is a fan favorite and who doesn’t love a superhero with plungers on the side of his head?” says Leslie Ferrell, SVP at Big Idea. “Fans have been asking for more, and now they’re finally going to get it. We’re excited to bring a movie the whole family can enjoy.”

While the plot is still under wraps, Producer Dan Merrell is leading the charge with a team of talented writers, ready to give LarryBoy his first big-screen adventure.

“I’ve loved LarryBoy for decades,” says Merrell. “I can’t wait for longtime fans and new audiences alike to experience a fresh VeggieTales film that honors the classics while delivering some fun surprises.”

🎙️ I am looking forward to seeing LarryBoy to swing into theaters in LarryBoy Begins, plungers and all! So Veggietales fans, be on the lookout for updates and a theatrical release date.

Plungers Away! Dave Almgren – Faith and Family Films News and Notes

Where Does Hope Grow?

In a heartwarming blend of faith, film, and fun, Two Pastors, Popcorn, and a Movie caught up with the creative force behind Where Hope Grows and its unforgettable star, David DeSanctis. What followed was a rich conversation full of laughter, insight, and soul—as they unpacked the movie’s powerful message, shared real-life reflections, and bonded over their mutual love for buttery popcorn and meaningful cinema. The movie hit the big screen a few years ago and is now currently streaming on Netflix. Check out our interview—you won’t want to miss it!

Harnessing the Power of Animated Faith Films to Impact Your Community

There’s nothing quite like gathering together to watch an animated film on the big screen. The excitement, the adventure, and the ability to be transported into another realm make movies a powerful experience that captivates children and those that are kids at heart. But beyond the entertainment, animated films have the potential to serve as an special tool for ministry, bringing biblical truths to life in an engaging and meaningful way.

As we step into 2025, there is an unprecedented wave of animated faith-based content hitting theaters and streaming platforms. This is a remarkable opportunity for family and children’s pastors to harness these films as a means of teaching, disciplining, and uniting their communities around biblical values.

An Exciting Line Up of Faith-based Animated Content.

Here are some a few releases to mark on your calendar:

• The Dead Sea Squirrels Series – An engaging series that introduces kids to biblical truths through the adventures of animated squirrels. Check out the new animated series from VeggieTales Co-Creator, Mike Nawrocki, streaming exclusively on Minno! Featuring performances and songs by Beth Moore, Ellie Holcomb, Mike Nawrocki, Steve Taylor, Newsboys, Matthew West, & more! Available Now on Mino streaming platform.

The King of Kings Movie – A father tells his son the greatest story ever told, and what begins as a bedtime tale becomes a life-changing journey. Through vivid imagination, the boy walks alongside Jesus, witnessing His miracles, facing His trials, and understanding His ultimate sacrifice. The King of Kings invites us to rediscover the enduring power of hope, love, and redemption through the eyes of a child. In theaters starting April 11th, 2025.

The Chosen: Animated Adventure Series –Creator of The Chosen Dallas Jenkins’ new independent studio 5&2 Studios is currently working on a New Children’s Animated Series called The Chosen Adventures. The Chosen Adventures follows nine-year-old Abby in the Galilean city of Capernaum, circa 30 CE. Inquisitive young Abby is bursting at the seams with questions and feels she doesn’t have the kinds of answers she’s looking for. When she and her best friend, Joshua, meet Jesus will all that change? Release Fall 2025

The Light of the World Movie – It’s AD 30 and everyone is expectantly awaiting the coming Messiah. While Jesus isn’t exactly what they imagined, there is something special about this man. Soon, John, James, Andrew, Peter, and their new friends begin to follow Jesus on an unexpected adventure. This beautiful, 2D-animated story of Jesus is told through the eyes of his beloved young friend, the Apostle John. From the beginning of Jesus’ ministry through his crucifixion and resurrection, LIGHT OF THE WORLD powerfully illustrates how Jesus of Nazareth changed the world forever and still changes lives today!  In theaters September 5th, 2025.

Young David Movie – David is one of the most inspiring characters in human history. Warrior, poet, shepherd and king, David’s life is one of incredible color and energy. It’s the ultimate underdog story. It’s about much more than a shepherd boy who took on a giant. It’s a story that can inspire a generation to live more courageously, and love more generously. It has the power to change us. ​ David is a major animated feature film that will reach a global audience. Animation is arguably the most powerful medium through which to reach every generation, culture and language. The world’s most beloved animated films are re-watched again and again and David may become one of the classics for generations to come. Release Fall 2025

Why Animated Faith Films Matter

Animated content has a unique way of capturing attention and making complex truths understandable, especially for children. With their colorful visuals, compelling storytelling, and relatable characters, these films provide an accessible way to teach scriptural lessons. In addition, they serve as a catalyst for family discussions, helping parents reinforce biblical principles at home.

How to Leverage This Content for Ministry

1. Host Family Movie Nights – Create a fun and inviting atmosphere where families can watch these films together, followed by a discussion or devotional time.

2. Incorporate Film-Based Curriculum – Use these films as the foundation for your Sunday school or midweek lessons, helping kids connect the stories on screen with biblical truth.

3. Encourage Family Engagement – Provide parents with discussion guides and activities that allow them to continue the conversation at home.

4. Community Outreach – Use these films as a way to invite families from your neighborhood into the church, providing an easy entry point for those who may not regularly attend.

The Time is Now

In all my years working in faith-based films, I have never seen such a rich offering of animated content that aligns with biblical values. This is an giant opportunity to use high-quality, faith- driven entertainment to disciple young people and support the spiritual growth of families in your church.

I challenge you, as a children’s pastor, to plan ahead and make the most of these incredible resources. Organize events, integrate these films into your teaching, and encourage families to use them as tools for faith development. Let’s seize this moment to inspire the next generation with biblical truths through the power of animated storytelling!

David Almgren

Faith and Family Films New and Notes.

Co-host of Two Pastor, Popcorn and a Movie Podcast

The Power of Story – “mo’olelo”

A few nights ago, I encountered someone whose very presence was a story in itself: a man who is 104 years old, born in 1920. It’s remarkable to think about what this man has lived through. In over a century of life, his story has likely been shaped by historic changes, cultural shifts, and countless personal experiences. His existence sparked a larger contemplation for me—what is his story, and how has it shaped him?

This reflection extended to everyone I saw that night while walking through the park in Waikiki. People passed by, some sitting on the grass, others strolling along the pathways. Each person carried with them their own narrative. Did they grow up in Hawaii, or did they move here? What led them to this specific moment in time? Do they know Jesus? Their stories, though perhaps less known than those of public figures or historical icons, are no less significant. Every person’s life is a mosaic of experiences, decisions, and encounters, and in Hawaiian culture, storytelling plays a crucial role in recognizing this.

In traditional Hawaiian society, storytelling was an oral art form, passed down through generations in the form of “moʻolelo” (narratives) and chants. These stories weren’t just for entertainment; they were the primary way to preserve history, cultural practices, and moral lessons. Storytelling connected people to their ancestors and the land. While the medium of storytelling has expanded —from oral traditions to written word, to digital media —the core purpose remains the same: to communicate, to connect, and to remember.

Today, storytelling often takes place on the big screen. Films have become one of the most powerful mediums for sharing stories on a grand scale. True-to-life narratives, whether they depict historical events or personal struggles, have the ability to deeply move audiences. Films can evoke emotions, challenge perspectives, and inspire change. In many ways, they help individual stories become universal. The films we watch are not only entertainment—Movies like ‘The Best Christmas Pageant Ever’ or the soon to be released animated movies “David” and The King of Kings‘. They are reflections of human experience.

But what is it that makes certain stories land on the big screen? What elevates some narratives to global recognition while others remain untold? It’s worth considering that even though some stories get the spotlight, every narrative holds value. The elderly man in the park, the runner passing by, the quiet onlooker at the café —each story holds meaning. Yet, for some, the stage is larger, and their stories resonate more broadly.

However, it’s not the size of the audience that determines the value of a story—it’s the impact it has on those who hear it. In the realm of faith, storytelling also plays a central role. Churches have long been places where the greatest stories are shared—stories of hope, redemption, and transformation. The story of Christ is a narrative of profound significance, and the ways in which it’s communicated continue to evolve. Just as we use modern media to tell personal stories, we can also use these tools to share messages of faith.

Ultimately, stories are bridges. They connect us to others, allow us to understand different perspectives, and inspire us to think beyond ourselves. Whether told in a park, in a church, or on the big screen, stories have the power to make people feel heard, valued, and part of something larger.

Dave Almgren – The Movie Guy and Co Host of Two Pastors, Popcorn and a Movie Podcast.

Have You Lost Your Vision?

Not long ago, I watched the movie ‘Sight’ about a young girl who lost her vision. She had to navigate life with no ability to see her world. I somewhat cursorily thought about the challenges that one would face with being blind, having your world upended, and about what I would do if I lost my vision. How would I handle the loss? These were good questions, but there was no real danger of it happening to me.

Fast forward just a few months and I faced the thing I thought would never happen to me; I was suddenly losing the vision in my left eye and the reality was crazy and traumatic. I began to project about what would happen If I lost the vision in my right eye too, resulting in total blindness. How would I accomplish the simple undertakings I take for granted? The possibilities took a very real toll on me. The enemy started depositing thoughts about being worthless and having to depend on others for the rest of my life. How would I have an impact or still fulfill any purpose in my life? Life would be merely an existence. I’d need assistance for the rest of my life. There’d be no path forward to fulfill God’s intended purpose for my life.

. . .So I thought, and Satan hoped for.

I went to the ophthalmologist and eye surgery was quickly scheduled. Would it work? Would I still be blind in my left eye and maybe lose sight in my right eye as well? I was anxious and scared. I decided I needed to dive into the Word to be reminded to have faith, and that God is still in the miracle business. In the movie “Sight” God used a doctor to produce a miracle in the life of the young girl. Her sight was restored through the miracle of medicine. I was now believing in the same, by faith. My surgery was successful, and it was, indeed, a miracle, ‘I once was blind but now I see!’ Did I need to go through this trial to recapture my sense of purpose and re- prioritize what’s important in life? Perhaps. I will take this win – and allow the experience to remind me once more to look to the Lord for everything I need in this life.

For those of you reading this article today, maybe you still have the ability to see with your eyes, but have lost your vision to reach the world and to impact culture? The Bible says that “without vision the people perish.” I encourage you today to hold onto God’s promises. You have inestimable value. Even through your trials and tribulations, God has a purpose, a calling for you. Consider it pure joy when you face trials. God is at work in your life as he was in mine and in the girl in the movie, ‘Sight.’

Dave Almgren – The Movie Guy and Co Host of Two Pastors, Popcorn and a Movie Podcast.

A Fork in the Road

12375233_10208225852984748_2333248504309808376_oWould you like some fresh ideas and methods to effectively reach your community and fulfill the great commission? That’s where I found myself in 2008, and God answered that question for me in an amazing way in my life.

I was born and raised in Hollywood. Not the Hollywood of Southern California, but the Hollywood District in Portland Oregon. In 1983 I became a follower of Christ and my desire was to fulfill the great commission in some form or fashion. In 1993 I graduated from Multnomah University and I was ready to embark on the journey to make a difference in the world. Over the years, I have been able to fulfill that desire with many mission trips, two church plants and numerous years as a pastor to youth and children. I have definitely had numerous mountain top experiences and a few low points of desperation along the way. But all in all the first few chapters have been exciting and fulfilling in so many different ways.

The next few chapters were about to be written in my story. In 2008 the story of my life was about to make a major change in the midst of uncertainty. I was facing a fork in the road and did not know what I was going to do and how I would continue to fulfill the great commission. Well, an opportunity was presented to me. But not in Portland or the Hollywood District this time, instead the Hollywood in Southern California.

The opportunity was to help spread the gospel through the medium of film and over the last twelve years I have had the privilege of working on the marketing teams for over 55 feature films. This opportunity has allowed me to continue to fulfill the great commission.14889989_793656094108018_8680511736822919009_o-1  With stories of lives challenged and changed because of films like Warroom, October Baby, Hacksaw Ridge, Woodlawn, Soul Surfer, The Star, Paul The Apostle of Christ, Breakthrough and I Can Only Imagine. The stories have been nothing short of inspiring and they reminds me that God can use anyone and anything to fulfill the great commission. I am so thankful for the door that the Lord has opened for me to be used in the “other Hollywood”.

film-movies-600xx3157-2105-0-233Currently I am working on two incredible films that deliver a powerful message that will encourage the church and will provide the opportunity to laugh and learn to love through the pain of life. The first film is “I Still Believe” and the second is a family comedy called “Selfie Dad”.

I Still Believe opens in theaters nationwide March 13th and is an inspiring love story for the ages. It’s based on the real-life story of chart-topping singer Jeremy Camp and is a powerful reminder that in the midst of life’s storms, true hope can be found. The film stars Gary Sinise as Jeremy Camp’s father and he does a fabulous job bringing insight to the story.

On June 12th, 2020 Selfie Dad hits theaters one week before Fathers Day. Some films have an inspiring faith-based message and others are fall-out-of-your-chair funny, but I don’t think there has ever been a faith film that was both? I believe Selfie Dad is that movie. Watch for the launch of the official Selfie Dad trailer on Tuesday February 25th, 2020.

Both I Still Believe and Selfie Dad are films that will inspire the church and cause people to reflect on their personal journeys. I hope and pray these films will play a part in stirring renewal and personal revival throughout America.

My journey continues and allows me to fulfill the call the Lord put on my life many years ago ‘to go into all the world and preach the gospel’ with some fresh new ideas using the medium of film to impact culture with the good news.

If you are interested in learning more about these two films and how you can utilize them to impact your community, please email me or give me a call.

David Almgren
dave@faithandfamilyflms.info
503-333-1026

 

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I Still Believe movie website
https://istillbelievemovie.com
https://istillbelievemovie.com/share-tools

 

Selfie Dad the Movie Website
The Selfie Dad official trailer is coming Tuesday February 25th, 2020.
https://selfiedadmovie.com
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