Thanksgiving Day Movies To Keep The Cozy Vibes Alive

Thanksgiving is about more than just food—it’s a whole vibe. Sure, Thanksgiving dinner takes center stage with turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie, but what really carries the cozy energy after the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade ends? Thanksgiving day movies. They’re the secret sauce that keeps the holiday spirit alive long after the table is cleared.

Here’s the thing: Thanksgiving films don’t get the same hype as Christmas movies. But honestly, they deserve a seat at the Thanksgiving table too. These films mix family drama, heartfelt lessons, and laugh-out-loud humor in ways that hit close to home. From classics like A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973) to road-trip chaos in Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987), to quirky adventures like Turkey Hollow (2015), there’s a story for everyone.

So while the food is cooking—or maybe burning—don’t just stress about the turkey. Flip on a Thanksgiving movie. It’s the perfect excuse to laugh with friends, distract the kids, or escape from that one relative who always brings up politics. Pour yourself a drink, grab a slice of pie, and let’s dive into the best Thanksgiving movies to keep the cozy vibes alive.

1. A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973): The Classic Must-Watch

If there’s one Thanksgiving movie that’s stood the test of time, it’s A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973). This animated classic has been around for decades, and honestly, it still works every single year. The story is simple: Charlie Brown gets roped into hosting Thanksgiving dinner, and things go hilariously wrong.

Instead of turkey and stuffing, Snoopy and Woodstock whip up a meal of buttered toast, popcorn, pretzels, and jelly beans. It’s the most chaotic Thanksgiving table ever, but somehow, it still captures the meaning of the holiday better than any perfect roast could. That’s the magic of Charlie Brown—his awkward attempts always reveal something genuine about friendship, gratitude, and the importance of showing up.

The film isn’t just about food. It’s about celebrating Thanksgiving even when things go sideways. Peppermint Patty crashes the meal, Snoopy gets dramatic, and somehow, the kids still end up giving thanks in their own silly way. Watching it feels like stepping back into childhood, where the little things mattered most.

The jazzy Vince Guaraldi score adds a cozy touch, making it impossible not to feel the season in full swing. Year after year, families gather around the TV to re-watch this gem, proving that sometimes the simplest stories are the ones we’re most thankful for.

Family Drama and Dysfunctional Gatherings on Film

Let’s be honest: every Thanksgiving comes with at least one blow-up. Maybe it’s siblings bringing up old rivalries, parents asking too many questions, or a new girlfriend showing up to stir the pot. Movies know this well, which is why family dysfunction has become a Thanksgiving staple on screen.

Films like Home for the Holidays (1995) lean into this chaos. The awkward conversations, sharp comments, and chaotic dinners feel almost too familiar. Watching it play out on screen is both painful and hilarious, because it mirrors what so many of us experience. Thanksgiving dinner isn’t always about gratitude—it’s often about surviving the dysfunction while keeping the turkey from burning.

But that’s also why these films matter. They remind us that perfection isn’t the point. The beauty of the holiday lies in the imperfections—the loud debates, the mismatched traditions, and even the uncomfortable silences. At the end of the day, we gather anyway, and somehow, those cracks become part of the story we laugh about later.

So if your own Thanksgiving feels like a soap opera, don’t stress. You’re not alone—you’re just living in your own holiday movie.

2. Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987): Road Trip Chaos

When people think of Thanksgiving movies, Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987) usually tops the list. And honestly? It deserves the crown. Steve Martin plays Neal Page, a stressed-out businessman who just wants to make it home for Thanksgiving dinner. John Candy is Del Griffith, a shower curtain ring salesman who won’t stop talking. Together, they turn a simple trip home into pure comedy chaos.

Flights are canceled. Trains break down. Rental cars go up in flames. Every possible travel nightmare happens, and somehow it just keeps getting funnier. The humor is sharp, but it’s the chemistry between Martin and Candy that makes the movie legendary. Neal’s uptight frustration clashes perfectly with Del’s easygoing chatter, and the result is comedy gold.

But the film isn’t just laughs. It has heart. Beneath the disasters lies a story about compassion, patience, and connection. When Neal finally makes it home for Thanksgiving, the relief feels earned because we’ve been on the journey with him.

It’s comedy, it’s drama, it’s relatable chaos. Anyone who’s ever been stranded during holiday travel knows this story all too well. That’s why this film continues to be a Thanksgiving tradition decades later.

Cooking Disasters and Thanksgiving Dinner Chaos in Movies

Thanksgiving and cooking disasters go together like mashed potatoes and gravy. In fact, some of the funniest and most relatable Thanksgiving movies lean on kitchen chaos to drive the story. Burnt turkeys, broken ovens, missing ingredients—it’s basically a rite of passage for any holiday gathering.

Take Pieces of April (2003) for example. April’s oven breaks, forcing her to beg her neighbors for help. Watching her panic as she runs from apartment to apartment is both stressful and hilarious. We’ve all had that moment where the dinner doesn’t turn out as planned, and that’s why it works so well on screen.

But these disasters aren’t just played for laughs—they carry meaning. They remind us that Thanksgiving isn’t about a flawless feast. It’s about the people around the table, even if the cranberry sauce comes from a can or the pie is burned beyond recognition.

In fact, some of the most heartwarming Thanksgiving stories are born out of these mishaps. The laughs, the improvising, and the shared struggle often become the memories families hold onto. So if your stuffing is too salty this year, don’t sweat it. Thanksgiving chaos is tradition—and in movies, it makes the story unforgettable.

3. Turkey Hollow (2015): Quirky Jim Henson Adventure

If you’re tired of the same classics, Turkey Hollow (2015) brings a quirky twist to your Thanksgiving break. Produced by the Jim Henson Company, this film is set in a quaint town where two children spend Thanksgiving with relatives. What starts as a typical holiday quickly shifts when they stumble upon furry, mystical creatures that look like cousins of the Muppets.

The movie blends holiday warmth with fantasy adventure. Instead of just sitting at a Thanksgiving table, the kids chase legends, uncover secrets, and learn about family in unexpected ways. There’s humor, a little mystery, and enough whimsy to keep both kids and adults entertained. Plus, the forest-dwelling critters are so bizarrely charming that they almost steal the spotlight from the human actors.

What makes this movie a hidden gem is how it balances the fantastical with real family themes. The siblings bicker, laugh, and ultimately discover the importance of sticking together. Even the Thanksgiving dinner scene avoids perfection—it’s messy, heartfelt, and relatable.

If your Thanksgiving movie lineup feels predictable, Turkey Hollow is your wild card. It’s imaginative, silly, and still manages to keep the holiday spirit intact. Sometimes, cozy doesn’t have to mean traditional—it can mean weird, funny, and wonderfully unexpected.

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Kids and Holiday Fun in Thanksgiving Movies

Let’s face it: kids are the secret spice of Thanksgiving movies. They bring the humor, the innocence, and the unpredictable energy that makes holiday films so fun to watch. From Linus and Sally in A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973) to the adventurous duo in Turkey Hollow (2015), children often carry the story forward with curiosity and chaos.

Kids keep the holiday lighthearted. They’re the ones sneaking extra pie, asking awkward questions at the table, or stirring up harmless drama that the adults can’t quite control. Their presence in movies mirrors real life—every Thanksgiving has kids running underfoot, keeping things from getting too serious.

Even in films with heavier tones, children symbolize hope and growth. In Free Birds (2013), the time-traveling turkeys partner with a young Native American boy, giving the movie heart. In The Blind Side (2009), Thanksgiving dinner takes on new meaning when Michael Oher is invited to sit down with the Tuohy family. These child-centered moments show how holidays are often about teaching, learning, and sharing.

Thanksgiving movies without kids? Honestly, they’d feel incomplete. The laughter, innocence, and unexpected lessons kids bring to the screen remind us of what the holiday is really about: joy, family, and a little bit of chaos.

4. Free Birds (2013): Turkeys Take on History

If you need a loud, silly animated flick to keep the kids entertained while you finish cooking, Free Birds (2013) is it. The premise is wild: two turkeys travel back in time to the first Thanksgiving to stop their species from becoming the main course. Ridiculous? Absolutely. Entertaining? Without a doubt.

Owen Wilson voices Reggie, a laid-back turkey, while Woody Harrelson brings the intensity as Jake, a determined freedom fighter. Together, they form the oddest duo imaginable. Their mission? Rewrite history so turkeys aren’t on the Thanksgiving dinner menu. Along the way, they team up with a young Native American boy and a group of resilient birds who refuse to be roasted.

The film thrives on slapstick humor, clever one-liners, and nonstop action. It doesn’t take itself seriously for even a second—and that’s the charm. For kids, it’s goofy fun. For adults, it’s a lighthearted break from more dramatic holiday films.

What makes Free Birds worth including is its fresh take on the Thanksgiving story. Instead of showing the same traditional meal, it flips the script with turkeys as heroes. It’s weird, it’s funny, and it actually has a sweet message about friendship and bravery tucked inside the chaos. It may not win awards, but it will definitely win laughs.

5. Addams Family Values (1993): Wednesday’s Dark Thanksgiving Play

Thanksgiving gets a delightfully dark twist in Addams Family Values (1993). While the film isn’t centered on the holiday, it includes one of the most iconic Thanksgiving scenes ever put on screen. At summer camp, Wednesday Addams (Christina Ricci) is forced to take part in a cheerful “first Thanksgiving” play. But in true Addams style, she burns the script—literally and figuratively.

Instead of playing along, Wednesday delivers a razor-sharp monologue about the realities of history and leads a full-scale rebellion on stage. The scene includes a young Native American boy character, satire that still feels relevant, and Wednesday’s signature deadpan delivery. It’s dark comedy at its finest and a moment that has made this film a cult favorite for the holiday season.

Outside of the play, the movie delivers plenty of Addams Family dysfunction. There’s gothic humor, bizarre family bonding, and an endless stream of witty one-liners. But it’s that camp performance that cements this film in the Thanksgiving movie lineup.

If your holiday needs more sass than sentiment, Addams Family Values delivers. It’s proof that Thanksgiving on screen doesn’t always have to be cozy or heartwarming—it can be sharp, funny, and deliciously rebellious. Watching Wednesday torch tradition is almost as satisfying as pumpkin pie.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on Screen

Before the turkey hits the oven, millions of families gather around the TV for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. On screen, it’s become the ultimate signal that the holiday has begun. Whether it’s the iconic floats, the giant balloons, or Santa Claus waving at the end, the parade is pure Thanksgiving tradition.

Movies have leaned on the parade for decades as an instant holiday cue. Miracle on 34th Street (1947 and 1994) is the best example, opening with Kris Kringle stepping in when the original Santa gets a little too tipsy. That single scene ties the story to Thanksgiving while smoothly transitioning into Christmas magic. Other films slip in parade shots to say, “Yes, it’s Thanksgiving—let’s celebrate.”

The beauty of the parade is its universality. It doesn’t matter if you’re in New York or watching from a childhood home miles away—it connects people. It’s the shared beginning of the holiday season, and seeing it on screen sparks nostalgia.

So while the Thanksgiving table is being set, throw on a film that includes the parade. It’s the perfect backdrop of music, balloons, and excitement to kick off a day of family, food, and cozy traditions.

6. Pieces of April (2003): Holiday Chaos in a Tiny Apartment

Pieces of April (2003) is one of those Thanksgiving day movies that feels way too real if you’ve ever tried hosting dinner for the first time. Katie Holmes plays April, a college girl with a rebellious streak who’s determined to cook Thanksgiving dinner for her family. The problem? Her oven is broken, her apartment is tiny, and her dysfunctional family is already skeptical she can pull it off. You can almost smell the disaster cooking before it even begins.

The film thrives on the chaos of Thanksgiving dinner. April has no idea what she’s doing in the kitchen, so she has to depend on her neighbors for help. These strangers, from all walks of life, become unexpected allies in her quest to put a meal together. Meanwhile, her family’s road trip to the city is filled with tension, sarcasm, and the kind of sharp remarks only families can get away with.

What makes this movie stand out is its honesty. It doesn’t glamorize Thanksgiving. Instead, it shows the cracks, the awkward silences, and the constant pressure to impress. But it also highlights moments of grace—the kindness of neighbors, the courage of trying, and the small victories that keep hope alive. It’s funny, it’s heartbreaking, and it’s deeply relatable. Pieces of April reminds us that even if the turkey is ruined, the true feast is connection.

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7. Miracle on 34th Street (1947/1994): From Thanksgiving to Christmas Magic

Few films capture the spirit of Thanksgiving and the transition into Christmas quite like Miracle on 34th Street. Whether you watch the 1947 black-and-white original or the heartwarming 1994 remake, the film begins at the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. It’s there that Kris Kringle steps in to play Santa Claus after the original performer falters. This opening instantly ties the story to Thanksgiving while setting the stage for holiday wonder.

The cozy vibes come from its mix of warmth, charm, and old-fashioned magic. At its heart, the story is about belief—belief in goodness, in Santa Claus, and in the importance of family. The parade scenes, the festive department store moments, and the heartfelt relationships all create an atmosphere that’s both nostalgic and timeless.

What makes it a great Thanksgiving movie is how it blends gratitude with anticipation. Thanksgiving day marks the beginning of the holiday season, and this film perfectly bridges that gap. Watching Kris Kringle win over skeptics while spreading joy reminds us that the season is about more than food and shopping—it’s about kindness, connection, and a little bit of faith.

Miracle on 34th Street is more than just a Christmas classic—it’s a Thanksgiving tradition that warms the heart and keeps the cozy vibes alive long after the turkey leftovers are gone.

Mixing Holidays: From Halloween to Thanksgiving to Christmas Movies

Some films don’t stop at just one holiday—they give us the full stretch of the season. You know the type: the ones that begin with Halloween costumes, flow into Thanksgiving day dinners, and wrap up with Christmas movies full of Santa Claus and Kris Kringle magic. It’s like a seasonal sampler platter, and honestly, it’s genius.

Why does it work? Because life itself doesn’t neatly separate these holidays. One moment you’re picking out candy for trick-or-treaters, and the next you’re buying stuffing for Thanksgiving dinner. Blink again, and suddenly you’re hauling out Christmas decorations. Movies that blend these holidays capture that rhythm perfectly. They keep the momentum going from October to December without missing a beat.

Watching films like Addams Family Values (with its Halloween-meets-Thanksgiving camp play) or Miracle on 34th Street (which kicks off at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade before diving into Santa Claus magic) feels like a seasonal bridge. They remind us that gratitude, family, and joy aren’t tied to one date on the calendar.

So when you’re planning your movie marathon, don’t just stick with turkey-themed films. Slide in one that mixes holidays. It’s efficient, fun, and keeps the holiday season alive long after dessert is served.

8. Home for the Holidays (1995): Dysfunction at Its Finest

Home for the Holidays (1995) is the movie that makes everyone say, “Yep, that’s my family.” Directed by Jodie Foster, it stars Holly Hunter as Claudia, a woman who returns to her childhood home after losing her job. From the moment she walks in the door, the drama begins. Her eccentric brother, played by Robert Downey Jr., stirs trouble. Her parents push her buttons. Dinner quickly spirals into a battlefield of awkward conversations and old resentments.

This isn’t the glossy version of Thanksgiving. It’s the messy one. The dysfunctional family that argues, judges, and yet somehow finds a way to laugh together. The film blends comedy and drama seamlessly, pulling you between laughter and cringing every few minutes. The acting is sharp, and the dialogue feels like it was lifted straight from a real Thanksgiving table.

What makes this one of the best Thanksgiving movies is its honesty. It doesn’t pretend that holidays erase problems. Instead, it shows that even when family drives you bonkers, the connection is still there. By the time dessert rolls around, you realize that surviving Thanksgiving is sometimes the real celebration.

If you want a movie that mirrors reality—with humor, heart, and a side of chaos—Home for the Holidays deserves a prime spot in your lineup.

9. Paul Blart: Mall Cop (2009): Silly Fun After the Turkey

Sometimes, after a big Thanksgiving dinner, you just want a light, silly comedy that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Paul Blart: Mall Cop (2009) delivers exactly that. Starring Kevin James as the overly dedicated mall security guard, this film takes place during the holiday shopping rush that begins right after Thanksgiving day. With Black Friday chaos just around the corner, the timing makes it a fun seasonal watch.

The story follows Paul Blart, a lovable underdog who dreams of being a real police officer but instead protects a New Jersey mall. When a group of criminals takes over the mall on Black Friday, Blart has to step up and save the day. Sure, it’s goofy and over the top, but that’s what makes it perfect for post-Thanksgiving watching. You’ve had the turkey, you’ve heard the family drama, now it’s time for pure slapstick fun.

What makes Paul Blart: Mall Cop work for Thanksgiving vibes is its mix of humor, family-friendly comedy, and the connection to the holiday season. The mall setting is filled with Christmas decorations, shoppers, and food courts, giving it a festive atmosphere. At the same time, Blart’s underdog determination and big heart keep it from being just another mindless comedy.

If you want something light to watch with kids, close friends, or family after the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and before the Christmas movies take over, this film is a surprisingly solid pick. It may not be gourmet cinema, but it’s like comfort food for the funny bone — warm, silly, and satisfying.

10. The Blind Side (2009): A Thanksgiving Dinner That Changes Everything

The Blind Side (2009) may be more of a sports drama than a holiday film, but one Thanksgiving dinner scene makes it unforgettable for this list. Sandra Bullock plays Leigh Anne Tuohy, who takes in Michael Oher, a teenager struggling without a stable home. The film follows his journey to becoming an NFL player, but at its core, it’s about family, kindness, and second chances.

The Thanksgiving moment is simple but powerful. Instead of the family spreading out in front of the TV to watch football, Leigh Anne insists everyone sit at the Thanksgiving table. Michael, nervous at first, is invited to join in. That small act of inclusion changes everything. It’s not about food—it’s about belonging.

The scene reminds us that Thanksgiving is about more than traditions. It’s about pulling close friends and strangers into your circle and showing gratitude for connection. Even though the film isn’t “a Thanksgiving movie” by definition, that moment makes it a must-watch around the holiday season.

It’s heartfelt, inspiring, and a reminder to celebrate Thanksgiving with generosity. And honestly? It pairs just as well with pumpkin pie as any official holiday classic.

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Gratitude, Thankfulness, and Reflection in Movies

At its heart, Thanksgiving is about gratitude. And plenty of films—not just the obvious Thanksgiving day movies—carry themes of being thankful, even if they don’t feature turkey or stuffing.

Take It’s a Wonderful Life (1946). Sure, it’s a Christmas staple, but the entire film is about recognizing the value of life and the people who love you. That kind of reflection fits Thanksgiving perfectly. The same goes for dramas like Good Will Hunting (1997), where connection and second chances take center stage. Gratitude doesn’t have to come with cranberry sauce—it shows up in any story where people realize what truly matters.

Even comedies often slip gratitude in between the laughs. Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987) isn’t just about road trip disasters—it’s about learning patience and compassion. Pieces of April (2003) isn’t just about a broken oven—it’s about neighbors stepping up when family falters.

These films remind us to pause. Whether we’re sitting at a Thanksgiving table with family or watching alone during Thanksgiving break, they nudge us to look around and feel grateful. Sometimes the message comes wrapped in humor, sometimes in drama, but it always sticks.

11. Dutch (1991): A Road Trip with Heart

If you enjoyed the misadventures of Planes, Trains, and Automobiles, then Dutch (1991) is a natural follow-up for your Thanksgiving movie marathon. Ed O’Neill stars as Dutch Dooley, a working-class guy tasked with driving his girlfriend’s snobby son Doyle home from prep school for Thanksgiving.

What starts as a simple road trip spirals into comedic chaos. The boy resents Dutch, the car ride turns bumpy, and soon they’re stuck in one disaster after another. But like all good Thanksgiving movies, the laughs are paired with genuine heart. Through their clashes, Dutch and Doyle slowly start to bond, showing that family isn’t just about blood—it’s about effort, patience, and showing up when it matters.

The road trip scenes echo the holiday travel nightmares we all know too well—flat tires, bad motels, and endless bickering. Yet underneath it all, the story leads us to a warm conclusion: sometimes Thanksgiving isn’t about a perfect beginning, but about the connections built along the way.

Dutch doesn’t get the same attention as other holiday films, but it deserves a spot. With its mix of comedy, drama, and an ending that lands with heart, it captures the spirit of Thanksgiving perfectly.

Food, Cooking, and the Thanksgiving Table in Movies

Food is practically a character in Thanksgiving movies. The turkey, the pies, the stuffing—they’re more than just background props. They represent tradition, family, and the little disasters that make the day memorable.

Films like Julie & Julia (2009) and Chef (2014) aren’t Thanksgiving movies, but their cooking scenes resonate with the same energy. They remind us how much effort goes into preparing a meal meant to bring people together. In Pieces of April (2003), the broken oven becomes a symbol of struggle, but also community, as neighbors help save the day.

Even comedies lean on food for humor. Burnt turkeys, exploding ovens, and last-minute pizza deliveries show up often, and honestly? They hit too close to home. Who hasn’t had one Thanksgiving where the “perfect plan” turned into ordering takeout?

The Thanksgiving table on screen is rarely flawless, and that’s the point. What matters is the laughter, the conversations, and the people crowded around it. Food isn’t just fuel—it’s the excuse for gathering, for storytelling, and for remembering that no one cares if the rolls are store-bought. So when watching Thanksgiving day movies, pay attention to the cooking chaos. It’s always the food scenes that carry the most heart.

12. Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009): Autumn Colors and Family Feasts

Though not a traditional Thanksgiving movie, Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009) embodies cozy autumn vibes that make it a perfect seasonal watch. Directed by Wes Anderson, this stop-motion masterpiece tells the story of Mr. Fox, who tries to outsmart three grumpy farmers while protecting his quirky family.

From the very first scene, the film oozes fall atmosphere. The golden-orange color palette, the rustic countryside, and the focus on food—apples, cider, roasted poultry—make it feel like Thanksgiving without ever mentioning the holiday. Watching Mr. Fox sit down with his family for meals, strategize with neighbors, and try to provide a better life hits close to the themes of gratitude and togetherness.

The story balances humor, adventure, and family lessons. While Mr. Fox wrestles with his own flaws and struggles, the film shows how unity and love matter more than perfection. The dinner table scenes, where mismatched characters gather to eat and laugh, feel like exaggerated versions of real Thanksgiving tables.

What makes Fantastic Mr. Fox such a cozy pick is its combination of humor, clever dialogue, and heartwarming family moments. It may be about woodland animals and a sly fox, but the themes are universal: family, food, and finding joy even in chaos. If you’re looking for something offbeat yet perfectly seasonal, Fantastic Mr. Fox is a fantastic addition to any Thanksgiving watchlist.

Creating the Perfect Thanksgiving Movie Night

Thanksgiving isn’t just about cooking or eating—it’s about slowing down and enjoying the season with family and friends. And what better way to do that than with a Thanksgiving movie marathon? Planning one is easier than you think.

Start with variety. Kick things off with a classic like A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973) for nostalgia. Follow it with a laugh-out-loud comedy like Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987). Then mix in something quirky like Turkey Hollow (2015) for the kids, and maybe close with a thoughtful drama like Scent of a Woman (1992) or Hannah and Her Sisters (1986). Switching tones keeps everyone engaged—no one falls asleep after the turkey.

Set the scene. Dim the lights, keep the leftovers within reach, and let the living room transform into your own holiday theater. Snacks don’t need to be fancy. Popcorn, pie slices, or even cold stuffing (yes, some people love it) pair perfectly with a cozy movie marathon.

Finally, make it a tradition. Watching these films year after year turns them into markers of time, just like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade or football games. Whether you’re with close friends, kids, or your loudest relatives, the movies create shared laughter and reflection.

Thanksgiving day movies may not outshine Christmas blockbusters, but when the credits roll, you’ll feel thankful—and that’s exactly the point.

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