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redfurrycat · 9 months ago

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🤠📜🐓Retelling, Backstory & cie Fic Recs🐓📜🤠

Check the Top Gun Masterlist post for the latest updated version. 💕

Ao3 Authors: AnadoraBlack, Barnes_Brain, Bartonfink, Bitter_Rabbit, Blood_mocha_latte, Booklover03, Bottledyarn, Cedricslove, Charlie_mou, ChexMix, Cltbsl, Comin2U, Content_Scrapbooker, DancingDisaster, Davidbyrne, Dracculaura, Drh0rrible, Earthangel_44, Fadedseas, Fuddlewuddle, Gamerring, Greatea, Greenstuff, Happypuppys, Haridwar, Heroic_pants, Indybob, Iridescent, Kiddi, Lesbiseresin, Llewellynprince, Lovelybattle, Martian_potato, MerielTLA, Midnights, Mtnofgrace, NikkiTe, OfTheDirewolves, Orphan_account, Pado_hyuck, Parcels, Percyjacksonfan3, Perishablealex, PerpetualDusk, Rararatatouille, Renai_chan, S_bean, Silvermoongirl10, Softerepilogue, Soisserieux, Stardustsunflower, Takingovermidnight, Teacupivy, The_Splendid_Wren, Thewonderzebra, Valkyrie_the_Bogwitch, VarjoRuusu, WaffleToaster, WhisperingNights.

> Post-Mission

Top Gun: Maverick retold by Fuddlewuddle {E}

I'll ride in this life with you

Rooster is called back to Top Gun along with 11 other pilots for an important mission. Not only does he have to deal with the unresolved issues with Maverick now the Captain is going to be the one training them, but he's also been assigned to live with the one person who seemingly lives to infuriate him; Hangman. He'll be lucky if he even makes it to fly in the mission in the first place. (Or, my alternate take on the events of Top Gun: Maverick if Rooster was made to live with Hangman).

Promise me, Just hold my hand

It follows Rooster and Hangman's relationship over the months and years following them getting together. Each chapter will be a difference slice of life--some will be between the end of the previous fic and the epilogue, and some will be after the epilogue. It will also expand on Maverick's developing relationship with Cyclone as hinted at in the previous fic.

Living after midnight, loving 'til the morning, then I'm gone. by WaffleToaster {E}

Nobody thought their actions back in the winter of '85 and beyond would end up having these consequences. A story woven from past mistakes, indecisions and loss that eventually helped shape his world and upbringing. But despite all the hardships one thing was for certain, Jake Seresin was destined to fly and he knew the Navy was where he belonged. A slightly altered kind of retelling that includes Jake 'Hangman' Seresin being Tom 'Iceman' Kazansky’s lost son, a story about revelations, love, loss, friendship and most importantly family. Where two rivals find out they may not be so different from one another and their journey to understanding, unity, serenity and eventually love. First by hating, then by loving and finally understanding and helping one another find a place they both deserve. Just not in the same order.

Stress Relief by lovelybattle {E}

Rooster stood in front of a door that was identical to his own that was just down the hall. He couldn’t bring himself to raise his arm and knock. He’d already been standing there for a good five minutes, frozen. He had been laying in bed that night unable to sleep, which wasn’t anything new, as he stressed about his upcoming suicide mission. He was restless, his mind had made a split second decision and his feet had followed.

I used to hate you by AnadoraBlack {M}

When Bradley Bradshaw and Jake Seresin first meet at Top Gun, they immediately decide that they hate each other. . It takes a looooooong time for that to change...

Now Say it Back by Earthangel_44 {E}

It's been two years since they broke up. Two years of Jake trying to forget the heart break of the day Bradley Bradshaw walked out of his life like Jake didn't mean anything. But as fate has it they are both recalled to Top Gun for a special mission and Jake is determined to not repeat past mistakes. What he doesn't count on is Bradley Bradshaw. AKA: An Angsty backstory to why there was so much bad blood between them during the movie and the story of before it all started.

Men Like Us by DancingDisaster {M}

Seresin men love with reckless abandon. It’s put every man before him in the ground. Jake refuses to be buried. He flies like he has nothing left to lose (he doesn’t), a one man army (he is), leaving everyone else in the dust (so they don’t leave him). Admiral Kazansky claps him on the shoulder, says he expects great things from him, and Jake’s smile is feral as the rest of his flight school cohort looks on in disbelief. Hangman, they all say, like Jake’s entire personality was a long con, and he ranks first in class. Rooster doesn’t look at all. (They've got history spanning the better part of a decade and they are absolutely, positively not over it.)

All The Love You Left Me by llewellynprince

Secret Keeper {T}

Jake Seresin is a lot of things, and Javy has been his secret keeper since the beginning.

Come on, Come on, Darlin' {M}

Bradley "Rooster" Bradshaw was born to love and he's going to spend the rest of his life writing the Encyclopedia Britannica on Jake Seresin, Callsign: Hangman.

Unwritten {M}

Jake is a work-in-progress. Like all those unfinished stories people start and never finish that everyone forgets long before there’s any chance of an ending, happy or otherwise.

Only The Good Die Young {M}

Seresins are warriors. They die young and they die bloody. They’ve got a debt somewhere one of them forgot to write down and now the rest of them are paying the price. Jake Seresin comes from a long line of fighters and desperados and gets an itch under his skin whenever he stops moving. Seresins are a law unto themselves and great men have tried to make it otherwise, and failed. Bradley Bradshaw was born with roots so deep the shifting of the tectonic plates can’t move them. There are mountain ranges less stubborn and more self-aware than he is. Javier Machado has beaten Bradley Bradshaw into the ground exactly three times in his life before the idiot finally realized. It might have been a bit extra, but Javy knows where all the bodies on the Seresin Ranch are buried. (AKA this time Jake comes from a loving, if tragic, family and he and Bradley still can’t get it right the first time)

invisible string by Bartonfink {M}

Bradley Bradshaw meets Jake Seresin. Bradley Bradshaw hates Jake Seresin. Bradley Bradshaw wants Jake Seresin. Bradley Bradshaw’s getting too old for this shit. Or: Before Top Gun, they're two kids who keep running into each other at the worst possible time. A study of fate and courtship over borders, milestones, and fifteen long, tension-filled years.

Don't Leave Me Hanging by NikkiTe {T}

Hangman met Rooster and Phoenix when they were in Top Gun years ago. Now they are called back to Top Gun for a secret mission. But there is a complication, Hangman and Phoenix know that Rooster hates Maverick for reasons unknown to them. They try to protect him, keep him flying, motivated, happy, and as far away from Maverick as they could. Unfortunately for Hangman, he recognizes that his friend looks good. And there's also the way Rooster looks at him that is a little different than he did years ago. ~~~~ Or a retelling of the movie, mostly from Hangman’s POV. Also added a really really protective Hangman in the story who has no idea that he's feeling more than friendship towards Rooster.

You Broke My Will, But What a Thrill by soisserieux {_}

Bradley shrugs. “No one there knows about us yet. We didn’t really get together until after we graduated, and I don’t know about you, but I haven’t really mentioned to anyone that I’m dating the Jake Seresin.” “Are you trying to decide how to tell them?” Jake asks. Bradley settles back into his chair. “Actually, I was considering what would happen if we didn’t.” “If we didn’t tell them?” A mischievous grin appears on Bradley’s face, and holy shit, that’s another one of Jake’s favorite expressions. “I was thinking about challenging you to a competition.” Jake grins. “I’m listening.”

it's lily's world and sereshaw are just living in it by pado_hyuck {T}

Little Chick

It was supposed to be a normal exercise. Well, to be fair, it was a normal exercise. They got their asses kicked by their instructor, who Hangman (oh so conveniently) dragged out of the Hard Deck the day before being introduced, as they prepared for their new mission that brought “the best of the best” back to Top Gun. Only the aftermath changed everything he ever thought about Bradley “Rooster” Bradshaw. - a single parent au

I won't let go 'til the end by cedricslove {E}

“What’s wrong, sweetheart?” Bradley asked in a gentle tone, hands softly rubbing his shoulders. “Nothing,” he said, unwillingly tensing at his own response, knowing it would give him away. Bradley sighed, “Why do you always do this? You shut me out.” Re-telling of Rooster and Hangman's relationship from Hangman's perspective

show me again by dracculaura {E}

He hasn’t had a roommate on land-based assignments in years, not since flight school, so it takes him by surprise. He just isn’t used to it, not anymore. And he’s especially not used to sharing a room with fucking Bradley Bradshaw. (jake and bradley are roommates during their time at topgun)

Callsigns by Valkyrie_the_Bogwitch {M}

Callsign: Rooster

Callsigns are a tricky business, both ultimate weakness and greatest strength. These are some loosely connected vignettes around how Rooster earned his feathers, for the good and the ill of it.

Callsign: Hangman

Callsigns are a tricky business, both ultimate weakness and greatest strength. These are some loosely connected vignettes around how Hangman earned his noose, for the good and the ill of it.

so sorry mama by drh0rrible

Eight Weeks {T}

Rooster finally gets called up to attend Top Gun. He is determined to outfly his ghosts and graduate top of the class. There are a few obstacles in his way. -- Rooster, Phoenix, and Hangman's eight weeks together at top gun.

I Love You Honey, Give Me A Beer {T}

Hangman’s POV of the bar scene scene in TGM, or: Jake being a pining idiot

Don't Hate The Player {E}

After the mission Rooster can't settle back into his skin. -- Champagne, drinking games, and conversations on the beach with Hangman and Rooster.

Too Good To Be True {M}

5 Times Someone Finds Out Rooster and Hangman are Together + 1 Time Jake Needs Reminding

bombs are falling everywhere (it's heartbreak warfare) by blood_mocha_latte {T}

He doesn’t really remember the first time that he met Jake Seresin. (Or, the childhood friends to enemies to lovers to rivals to lovers we all desire, coupled with angst with a happy ending and a side of icemav)

low key in love by iridescent {T}

low key in love

Bradley runs warm by nature, always has. Today, half an hour after exercise, he’s practically a radiator. He figures he can be generous enough to share the surplus heat rather than suffer through the nuisance of watching Seresin gradually edge closer to hypothermia. (In which Hangman is often freezing and Bradley, who is a human furnace, notices and starts feeling begrudgingly obliged to do something about it.)

And If Your Heart Surrenders by perishablealex {E}

Bradley is wearing his aviators and his mustache has beer foam on it. Jake reaches out and brushes his thumb tentatively over the foam, hand lingering on Bradley’s jaw. He feels Bradley smirk a bit as he reaches over to place a hand over Jake’s thigh. He leans in and Jake holds his breath, but Bradley just brushes his mustache against his cheekbone and then the shell of his ear. Bradley says it softly into Jake's ear. Mine. And Jake runs. Or: A retelling of Jake's life, from his life at home, his time at the Naval Academy and first time at Top Gun, The Mission, and finally, the aftermath.

Beaten and Blown by the Wind by martian_potato {T}

Jake Seresin is the best of the best. He’s always been, because he hadn’t ever let himself be anything else. In high school, that meant being the varsity swim team captain and graduating top of his class. At the Naval Academy, that meant being the fastest 200 meter freestyle swimmer they’d ever seen, meant being Valedictorian of his class and graduating with an aerospace engineering degree. At the Corpus Christi Naval Air Station, it meant getting the top scores, it meant being sent to Top Gun. In the Navy, it meant being the only current generation Navy pilot to have a confirmed air combat kill since Captain Pete “Maverick” Mitchell. He’s worked hard to be where he’s at today and he’s never been afraid to flaunt it. Even if it means that his only constant, his only comfort, is the ghosts of the people he’s lost that dog his every move. - This is a story about how Jake collects Admirals as father figures, falls in love, loses people, and comes out on top.

Handle With Care by Barnes_Brain {E}

Ever since he could remember, Bradley wanted to be a pilot. When he was seventeen his dad, and Ice, pulled his papers from the Naval Academy. When he was barely 22 they did it again and pulled his wings out from underneath him. Stamped with a Do Not Fly he’d been delegated to Catapult Officer. After a particularly long deployment, and a very short fight, Bradley gets his chance at becoming a Naval Aviator as he’s always dreamed of. Once he’s got his wings of gold he meets Jake “Hangman” Seresin, another young pilot. He’s cocky, headstrong, handsome, brash, witty, striking, and most of all oblivious to the fact that Bradley is not flight deck crew anymore, or the son of the Commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet. So maybe Bradley has the hots for the obnoxious pilot who looks like a Greek god. And maybe he doesn’t want to scare him off. Sue him.

the man had killed the thing he loved (and so he had to die) by orphan_account {T}

Jacob Seresin was born and raised weak. Delivered prematurely, he was small and fragile; a pitiable baby who always needed to be watched over. His conception was welcomed, his birth, undesirable. (or: Jake Seresin throughout his life.)

Obviously by lovelybattle {E}

Jake groaned into the kiss, gripping at Rooster’s shoulders. Rooster pushed him against the door, hand roaming up and down his sides. He reached under Rooster’s shirt, running his fingers over the muscles that flexed under his touch. Rooster groaned and moved his lips down to Jake’s neck, making Jake moan under his breath. “Um- I should probably-” Jake fell off into a moan as Rooster sucked a spot into his pulse point. “Hang on I-” Jake tried again, “Rooster, I need-” Rooster just hummed, running his tongue over the mark. “Bradley, I need to tell you something.”

still got that old time feeling by haridwar {E}

This was where Bradley’s head had been stuck for the entirety of his trip home. Flying in to San Diego from overseas had given him ample opportunity to overthink. Not about his impromptu homecoming though, or the fact that he would be stopping by his childhood home for the first time in well over a decade, or what it would be like to retrace his steps through Top Gun again like the first time around wasn’t difficult enough. No. His mind was stuck inexplicably upon Jake goddamn Seresin, and his goddamn stupid handsome face, and the fact that he still had way too many feelings for a guy who had walked out on him without so much as a backward glance. Or: yet another retelling of TG:M which covers some of the hangster subtext Tom Cruise neglected to include in his movie

Guardian Goose by Comin2U {T}

Goose didn't mean to stick around when he died. But here he was, attached to 3 people and still yelling at Mav 30 years later. ________________________________ aka Guardian Angel Goose is tied to Iceman, Maverick, and Bradley and proceeds to spend 30 years yelling at all of them for being idiots in some fashion. Though only 1 of them can see him

mark on you by drh0rrible

Training Montage {E}

No matter where in the world you found yourself stationed, Navy bars were all the same. It was a comfort really, a nice bit of stability in a life defined by chaos. It starts in a Navy bar, and then another one, and another one. A one night stand, to half a relationship, to exes, to maybe something again. Another history of Rooster and Hangman

Carved on my Heart by ChexMix {G}

Jake's heart is a place for all types of stories, collected over the years, etched in with fine pen. Pain and failure and heartbreak and success and trust and love. Or: It'll take time. Some may even say it's impossible. But when has that ever stopped Jake Seresin? In which Jake "Hangman" Seresin learns to slow down and open up. One impossible step at a time.

why’d you wait so long (to tell me you need me) by thewonderzebra {E}

“Can you promise me something?” Jake calls into the darkness. Bradley tries to keep his muscles from tensing up at the thought of the broken promises he’s weathered in his lifetime. He slips his hands under the shirt Jake is wearing, palms and fingertips on warm, soft skin acting as a grounding mechanism. “That’s dangerous,” he warns. He knows he would do anything, say anything if it means never losing Jake again. But in their profession, promises are never a guarantee of permanence. Still, Jake seems aware of the danger and is determined to forge ahead, fearless as ever. “Promise me that we’re forever.” OR A retelling of TG:M explaining the background of Jake and Bradley’s relationship, and how it comes to evolve.

habits by rararatatouille {_}

Jake and Bradley come together in a series of jagged stops and starts. They fall apart in the exact same way. In which habits are hard to break, even for the people we love most.

on the other side by bottledyarn {T}

Between the scenes of Top Gun: Maverick, Jake and Bradley are falling in love and everyone knows it. Except Jake and Bradley.

everyone knows something I don't by greatea {E}

Rooster interrupts him, and damn it, that smirk is back from the bar. "Ah, so you paid attention to who was in the same year as me, Hangman? My my my darlin', I didn't know I left that much of an impression on you." With a scowl, Jake just shrugs his shoulders. "Gotta pay attention to the competition, right? Not that you turned out to be much competition after all, a bit too slow for me." "Ah, well, that might be true for my flying, but it certainly doesn't carry over into other aspects of my life, darlin' ," Rooster says, smirk almost painted onto his face, looking him up and down. - or the 5+1 fic where Jake doesn't realize Bradley is flirting with him, and the one time he does.

Burned on the back of your eyelids by The_Splendid_Wren {M}

They say when you're near death your life flashes before your eyes and he's had a long, complicated life. The first time he remembers trying to etch a memory on the back of his eyelids he's eight years old. His mom uncovers the piano in the living room and begins tapping at the keys, the notes to a song he's long since forgotten echoing around the living room. He can hear the melody as the wind whips past his ears and the wreckage of his plane crashes far below on the ice mountain side. Or Bradley contemplates the moments that stuck with him as he descends to the ground after ejecting in the woods - the good, the bad, and the ugly.

ride or die by parcels {T}

He’s newly thirty-five when he meets Bradley Bradshaw, the arrogantly charming graduate with a stupid name and a pornstache that makes him look like he’s stepped straight out of the 80s. From first glance, Bradshaw makes his vision tunnel, and Hangman can’t tell if it’s from jealousy, or admiration (he doubts it), or.. something else. orrrrr falling in love with a Naval Lieutenant is easier than it sounds and even less practical than one might initially think.

apple juice by cltbsl {_}

“I can’t do this.” Jake pulls away to inspect his face, this is some sick joke. Shock is written all over his face, there is so much anger, so much betrayal, so much sadness coursing through his veins he can’t even bear to look at Bradley anymore. Jake’s losing his mind, and laughs. “You could’ve just left me alone.” Jake breathes out, shaking his head, tears now flowing freely from his eyes. “You could’ve left me alone, but instead you kiss me, and tell me the same damn thing you’ve been telling me from the very beginning.” Jake snapped. Bradley stares at him with broken eyes, and opens his mouth to say something, but Jake holds up his finger. “You keep shutting me out,” Jake sighs, “This time you don’t get too.” He grabs his door handle and yanks the door open, not before looking at Bradley one last time. “Just stay away from me.” Jake spits, climbing into his car, and driving away.

Life Still Goes On by Renai_chan

Got to Make It on My Own {E}

Jake and Bradley spend one night together under the heavy, heavy influence of alcohol. It does not go well. But it goes worse for Jake than it does for Bradley because he wakes up with a bonding bite and his new alpha nowhere to be found. When they're recalled for a special training detachment eight years later, Jake finds out that Bradley doesn't remember giving him the bite at all and Bradley finds out about it for the first time. It still does not go well.

Always by greenstuff {E}

Jake meets Bradley for the first time when they're eighteen. This is the story about how they fall in love, break up, and then spend years finding their way back to each other. A modern Persuasion, if you squint a bit.

Left Hanging by takingovermidnight {T}

When Jake Seresin adopts the attitude that later earns him his "Hangman" call sign, Bradley Bradshaw cannot help but feel somewhat responsible.

got to get your lovin' (one more time) by Percyjacksonfan3 {E}

When the first opening for an assignment comes his way he grasps it with both hands. It’s long, it’s far away, and it’s a distraction.It’s that mission that he gets his first and so far only kill, marking him as the only Navy pilot in active duty to have one.A couple of the TOPGUN graduates text him congratulations when they hear.A couple of them don’t.Jake grits his teeth and moves on. It's the backstory breakup fic that I couldn't not write after watching this movie, along with these two figuring themselves out after the events of Maverick to realize they actually did belong together all along.Also Phoenix and Coyote are the best friends two disasters like Rooster and Hangman could ask for, and I love them.

Drops of Jupiter (Tell Me) by Earthangel_44 {E}

“Do you?” Bradley counters. Jake’s face morphs into confusion. “Do you want a divorce?” Jake is quiet and the quiet is scarier than when Bradley didn’t think that Jake would take the ring from him. “I don’t know.” Jake says softly and he looks lost. He looks small and Bradley’s heart hurts in his chest. “I love you.” Bradley says breaking the silence between them and a smile twitches over Jake’s face. “Do you?”

Rare by lovelybattle {E}

Bradley didn't think anything of all the different people he met that day. He couldn't even remember most of them. It was completely normal to meet people that you'd never see again in his line of work. What wasn't normal was the new bright red mark that he found on his arm when he got home. A soul mark.

You'd Say "I Love You and How Proud" by Comin2U {T}

Someone once asked Natasha where she got her ability to survive anything. It take her years before she learned it was a hereditary thing. ________________________ The one in which Natasha is Maverick's biological daughter but it's a little more complicated than that.

slow down (you're doing fine) by charlie_mou {M}

"But have you ever thought about what happened after?" Suddenly, Jake felt like the tone alarm was going off and he was stuck in the cockpit with the hydraulics out. "After?" "His dad died before he even turned three. His mom died a week after he turned nine. Have you thought about what happened after?" Or, Seven years after their break up, Jake and Bradley are finally about to admit why it happened. But instead of resolving whatever there is between them, Bradley starts giving Jake heart attacks while in the sky - and Jake has a feeling it's all about more than flying. Going to Maverick for advice might just clear things up for him.

Sereshaw (Taylor's Version) by s_bean {M}

Sparks few instantly, wingmen become friends, who then become lovers. Miscommunication lead to fall out. Unsaid words since the twist of fate when it all broke down. I don't know about you, but the story of us might be ending soon. Or: The story of Rooster and Hangman who are DEFINITELY exes.

A Kiss with a Fist by MerielTLA {E}

"If we´re both single by a certain age, we will marry each other" but they´re rivals making a drunken bet and they will do anything in their power to sabotage the other´s relationships because they´re secretly in love.

(sometimes I feel) like a monkey pilot by charlie_mou {_}

Mav’s both eyebrows twitched. “That does sound like it’s going to be a problem.” “I didn’t mean it like that,” he said, making himself look straight ahead, avoiding eye contact. “He’s a shithead in the same way you are.” “Bradley,” Mav said, and he was using that tone, the one that made Bradley feel like he was fifteen again. “What? It’s true. He has the same lack of brain-to-mouth filter, doesn’t know when to quit, I can go on if you want,” he said, but Mav didn’t take the bait. They marched down the tarmac, getting closer and closer to the others’ hearing range, and Mav was still staring at him, expecting an explanation. He sighed. “He’s my ex-boyfriend.” “Your—” Mav exclaimed, falling a step behind Bradley, before catching up, striding inches away from Bradley’s side. “From before?” "Yep." “Why didn’t you say anything?” God, why was this tarmac so long? “As much as I’d prefer to avoid him, orders are orders, Mav.” Or, it's time for the special detachment and Bradley's decisions from five years ago are finally catching up with him.

I Lost You Once, But I'll Love You More Than That by PerpetualDusk {E}

As hard as he would love to forget about the time where Bradley, Javy, Natasha, and him, had all went to the same Naval academy- Bradley being two years older than them, but managing to stick to Jake's side, and make time for their friend group-, and had become familiar with one another, than their time at Top Gun shouldn't have been anything short of a friendly reunion. Except, it wasn't. Not in Jake and Bradley's case, for the most part. For them, it was a back-and-forth game of pushing each other's buttons, in which, most cases, Jake would be the first one to comment something that would rile Bradley and get him to fight back, to continue and escalate their verbal war where both of them were too stubborn to back down or admit they were both wrong. That was their thing, however. It was always about pushing the other's buttons- albeit light bantering when they dated-, and that worked for them. The bickering and the arguments happened occasionally, but they never got bad to the point where they plunged a knife deep into the other's gut and twisted it slowly, killing them from the inside. Perhaps, what worked for them was just bound to explode in their faces- and it did, which is why they are the way they are.

obliterate me by fadedseas {T}

Jake Seresin comes from a long line of men that burn bright and fast, and flame out just as quickly. He knows that Bradley Bradshaw is his soulmate. He knows that he is destined to die young. He knows that Bradley Bradshaw is going to end up killing him one day. But Jake Seresin refuses to go quietly. Or a Cursed Soulmates AU in which all the men in Jake Seresin's family die young at the hands of their soulmates. And then Bradley's name appears on Jake's wrist.

Coming Home by mtnofgrace {T}

Top Gun Maverick if Iceman had lived. Icemav raised Bradley, and Ice is determined to get him back home.

gold rush by gamerring {_}

All his life, Jake Seresin has wanted to live his life as loud as possible. So that when he dies, people can place flowers on his casket. When the light hits him, sunbaked and smiling and grinning. He's whole and happy and everything he could ever want. He bites down on his teeth. Later, he hunches over the porcelain, petals falling out of his mouth, and is already one step in his grave. - Flowers, fighter pilots and the true fatality of your feelings spilling out.

in this world, it's just us (you know it's not the same as it was) by happypuppys {_}

He changes in the bathroom quickly, brushing his teeth and fixing his hair before he walks out, rolling his eyes when Bobby wolf-whistles. “Really objectifying me.” Bradley grabs his phone, and Bobby laughs. “You just look like you need objectifying.” Bobby replies, laughing again when Bradley wrinkles his nose. “Don’t worry, I’ll leave that to Jake.” “I don’t even like him.” He argues, but even he can hear how much of a lie that it sounds like. or, the story of Jake and Bradley, from childhood to what comes after the mission

it was only ever you by haridwar {E}

Different lives, different faces, different names and identities. Centuries of chasing. Those eyes, that soul, still inexplicably the same. It was both a blessing and a curse that Jake was the one forever burdened to remember first. or: soulmates au where they reunite once they've recovered memories from their past lives

Hangman Origin by Bitter_Rabbit {E}

When they first meet, they aren’t Rooster and Hangman. Not yet. They are just Bradley Bradshaw and Jake Seresin. ----- Strangers to Lovers to Exes to Lovers, because we all know they had history!

share the same space for a minute or two by heroic_pants {E}

He notices a guy standing against the wall of the admin building looking down at his phone, maybe waiting for someone. One of their class probably, judging by his khaki naval uniform, and the way he holds himself. He’s tall – though Bradley thinks he’d probably be taller, just by a little – and he looks like a naval Ken Doll, handsome in a real Kennedy-wealthy way, blonde hair neatly cut and combed back. He looks like a jock in a teen movie, ready to go beat up some nerds. Bradley knows the type, through high school, college, and definitely the academy. All cocky hotshots with an ego the size of the Sun. Bradley doesn’t expect the guy to look up and meet his eyes. The guy half-smiles, kind of a smirk but it doesn’t feel mocking, it kind of warms his whole face bringing out his dimples – and Bradley is too caught off guard to do anything but look through his Dad’s old aviators before they’ve passed him by anyway. *** Rooster and Hangman get to Top Gun in 2008, the first time, and an intense rivalry develops into something else that echoes back when they return eight years later...

We Were Nothing by Renai_chan {M}

Jake and Bradley were together during their first stint at TOPGUN. Bradley breaks it off with Jake afterwards. Later, they meet again at the special detachment training, and Bradley tries to rekindle their once-upon-a-time romance. Except Jake doesn't know what the hell Bradley's talking about.

If I Could Turn Back Time by Earthangel_44 {E}

In the wake of Bradley’s death, Jake sells his soul to go back in time and save him. The only catch: they can’t be in love. AKA: The angsty demon timeloop au

Back and Forth in Love by WhisperingNights {M}

“Oh Rooster, tell me you didn’t fall for the cis hetero man,” Phoenix sighed, following her friend's line of sight. He took a large gulp of his beer, not denying it. “He’s an asshole, literally the straightest man in the bar. Something happened in Japan, didn’t it?”

there's oceans between you and me (once again) by davidbyrne {E}

Bradley doesn’t really know when it ended. If he’s honest, he doesn’t know when it began, either. He and Jake are like the tides, pulling in and pushing out on an endless cycle with no discernible edge. Sure, there’s a pattern there, but Bradley can’t find it, can’t control it. Or maybe he can, but he doesn’t want to. If there’s an end to be found, he doesn’t want it. Even if that means he’ll be dragged out every time he’s pulled in. Or bradley's afraid of fate, and jake doesn't believe in it

I Am Yours by Booklover03 {_}

Being an Omega with a mating bite and a half-finished mating bond without his Alpha in sight is hard. Hiding the fact that he’s a mated Omega is even harder. What happens when years later he meets his Alpha again? Especially when the other man doesn’t seem to acknowledge the bite mark he left on the Omega years prior.

Running Rings Around You by Content_Scrapbooker {T}

Hangman and Rooster had a deep and complicated history, even before the special detachment that would change both of their lives. But in the spirit of secrets coming to light, they both probably would have appreciated it if no one had found out they were married in the middle of the mission.

racing ghosts by stardustsunflower {T}

Jake hasn’t seen Bradley in almost two decades, and hasn’t seen Maverick for longer than that. But here they are again, the people he’s supposed to work with to save the country or the world or something, and hopefully not die in the process. Bradley is still just as angry as he was back then, which Jake doesn’t want anything to do with anymore. He got caught up in that mess years ago, and he isn’t about to do it again. Really. He’s staying out of it. So far out of it.

On Your Mighty Wings by VarjoRuusu {T}

Maverick has spent more than thirty years looking for the child he never had the chance to know. One dead end after another, one loss after another, and now when he finally has a chance to get to know the man his son is now, it could all be taken away from them in an instant. Or Jake is actually Maverick’s biological son…

If you find yourself thinkin' About that boy from East Texas by Kiddi {M}

“Funnily enough,” he decided to say, hoping he was reading the situation correctly, “this isn't the first sunrise we’ve had, is it?” Jake chuckled softly and made a small noise, “no it is not,” he agreed, “just as pretty though,” “No matter where I go,” he retraced old conversations, “the sunrise always feels like back home.” They settled in comfortable silence for a bit before Jake spoke, “it's been a while since we’ve seen each other,” he said, looking down at the sand, “Spain was it?” he looked over at Rooster, “the last time I saw you?” A little bit of shame and guilt rose in his chest, neither of them kept in touch after Spain but Rooster always felt like it was his fault, “yea, it was,” he nodded, “you haven't changed a bit though, still as annoying as ever,” he laughed, and so did Jake, “but you’re still one hell of a pilot,” Or Bradley and Jake haven't seen each other since running away from their feelings and now they have to realize that they never really went away in the first place

Somewhere on the East Side of Sorrow by softerEpilogue

Devils in the Canyon {M}

Rooster pitches down, too steep and too fast, daring Maverick to follow. Mav matches him, foot for foot, and they hurtle down, spiraling and twisting around each other in a deadly dance. “What’s past is past,” Maverick says, voice g-strained. “Pull up, Rooster.” To hell with you, Rooster thinks, and even he doesn’t know how literally he means it. Or It takes Rooster and Hangman ten years after they meet at flight school to get their shit together. It takes longer than that, a suicide run of a mission, Maverick's god-and-logic defying luck, and Iceman's indomitable common sense to get him and Maverick to sit down and talk.

Some Unspoken Thing by indybob {M}

With paths that have crossed for the better part of a decade, Jake and Bradley have a history unlike any other. A history that sees their relationship develop from best friends, to bitter rivals, to eventual lovers. The five times that Jake felt there was some unspoken thing between himself and Bradley, and the one time he decided to do something about it.

it’s always say goodnight & go by lesbiseresin {E}

It’s hard to tell who actually walks into who, but if there’s one thing Bradley does soon become certain of, it’s that it isn’t his drink that sloshes all over the front of his shirt when he collides with the person standing in front of him. Bradley groans and takes a reflexive step back while the damage is still soaking in. “Fuck.” The person in front of him seems to share a similar sentiment. “Oh, shit.” “What the hell, man?” Bradley gingerly pinches the front of his now sopping-wet shirt between two fingers and unsticks it from his chest. Great. So much for a carefree night out. “You think I just wasted the rest of my drink on purpose?” (alternatively: the story of bradley bradshaw’s life, as told through making out with jake seresin.)

I’m alright with a slow burn by lesbiseresin {M}

Maverick’s eyes lower to focus on the figure whose head barely reaches Copperhead’s hip, a blonde boy that looks to be around Bradley’s age. “And this must be Jacob.” “Jake,” the boy corrects. He only crosses his arms when Copperhead taps his shoulder in a silent reprimand, but Maverick doesn’t seem to mind. He laughs and exchanges an amused look with Copperhead before moving his hand into a similar grip on Bradley’s shoulder. “Well, Jake. It’s nice to meet you. I’m Maverick. This is Bradley.” Bradley blinks owlishly at them both until Maverick nudges him. “Hi.” (alternatively: jake & bradley over the years)

What's my worth? by WaffleToaster {E}

Twenty-six, twenty-seven, twenty-eight… These were the only thoughts that rang through his head. Twenty-nine, thirty. Two breaths. One and two. They weren't friends, they didn't even like each other and whatever they had going between them meant nothing. And then the mission happened. Or how Bradley and Jake went from hating each other to caring a little too much.

the stars align (just one time) by OfTheDirewolves {M}

In one world a prince fell in love with a lord but the world was cruel and they were robbed of the time they deserved... In another two pilots meet at top gun but it will take them too long to fully understand what they mean to each other. or Jake and Bradley fall in love over multiple lifetimes, will they finally get it right? or will they keep getting in their own way? A Bradley Bradshaw x Jake Seresin Reincarnation AU

top gun missing scenes by teacupivy {E}

the whole time, under the lights

Jake "Hangman" Seresin is unraveling the mystery that is Bradley "Rooster" Bradshaw, one thread at a time, if it kills him. They've been fighting and fucking for years, and everything comes to a head when they're recalled to Top Gun for a special training detachment and find themselves competing to be team leader.

as he falls from his perch

Bradley Bradshaw has a knack for losing people, either watching them go or running them off. Jake Seresin seems to just keep coming back.

Into the Light by silvermoongirl10 {T}

In a world where Goose and Carole Bradshaw didn't die and got to raise their son. Bradley doesn't get his papers pulled and meets Jake Seresin at the Acadmey and Flight School falling in love. The Dagger mission causes angst within the '86 class and Bradshaw family. Bradley and Jake are due to get married in four months and they've both been chosen as mission candidates, Maverick has been chosen to teach them and he is being harder on Bradley because he needs his godson to survive. Goose and Slider step in to help and everyone has to prepare themselves for the possibilty that the long awaited wedding could turn out to be a funeral instead.

A Kazansky Redemption by WhisperingNights {E}

This is a Kazansky love story. Can one win back the love of their life? Can the other find love in a storm of hate? **** “Sarah, that’s been over for 26 years, besides your my wife, remember? It wouldn’t be good to go tell a man I love him now would it?” Ice grinning playfully at her. She gave a small laugh that quickly turned into a cough, causing him to lean toward her in concern. “I’m alright, I’m alright, sit down,” she rasped, waving him off, then she looked at him “I love you Tom, but we both know our love was foraged in partnership nothing else. We did what was necessary for the safety of ourselves and your career. But it’s 2017, it's easier now. Sexuality rights are better, people are more open. I’ll never get to have a wife, but you Tom, you deserve to have a husband.” ***** Jake’s eyes landed on a figure in an awful Hawaiian shirt and sunglasses. His irritation instantly grew, the universe really must hate him.

don't need a reason to bleed until we're even by midnights {_}

he walks into the little bar and jake seresin is there, because this mission is for the best of the best, and jake is the best, he’s always been the best. best thing bradley ever had, that's for damn sure. or... another take on rooster & hangman meeting again as exes when they're called to TOPGUN for the mission.

#Retelling Backstory & cie Recs List #hangster #sereshaw #hangaroo #bradley rooster bradshaw x jake hangman seresin #bradley rooster bradshaw #jake hangman seresin #Red Note ==> I know there are more. Trust me I know. I'll find them! <3 This is like the first phase of my Top Gun Verse Recs List.... ;)#🐈red🐈furry🐈cat🐈tag🐈

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doomonfilm · 4 years ago

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Ranking : The Coen Brothers (1954/1957 - present)

Directing a film can be one of the most vast, task oriented and stress inducing undertakings imaginable, which makes it odd that more directing duos, specifically sibling duos, do not exist. Sibling duos like the Wachowskis, Hughes, Farrellys, Safdies and even the Zellners have made names for themselves, but one set of siblings easily towers above the rest : the Coen brothers. With nearly 20 films under their belt, and nearly as many stylistic varieties and storytelling approaches found within, it is hard to argue the impression they have left on moviegoers worldwide over the past nearly four decades they’ve existed professionally. With such a stellar record of films under their collective belts, I’ve decided to do the most stress-inducing task of all : rank these films from least to most favorite.

18. Intolerable Cruelty (2003) For a duo with so much distinct style and flair for storytelling, this film feels the least like a Coen Brothers film. If anything, this feels like a script that sat on a shelf in pre-development hell, possibly for years, only for someone considering themselves a bit of a ‘maverick’ or ‘forward thinker’ to discover it and think that a dose of Coen Brothers magic could save it. Even with the star power of George Clooney and Catherine Zeta-Jones behind it, this one feels a bit too ‘by the numbers’ to stand out from an oeuvre that nears perfection.

17. Hail, Caesar! (2016) I’ll be completely honest with you all... I don’t remember much about this film. I remember enjoying it, but I don’t remember being blown away by it. I remember enjoying the colorful display of old Hollywood, and it’s always refreshing to see George Clooney lean into roles that border upon slapstick. For as much as I found this film not all that memorable, however, it stands above Intolerable Cruelty simply because it does not trigger bad memories.

16. Burn After Reading (2008) This film is what Intolerable Cruelty wanted to be... a property that is a hair closer to by the books, but full of a screwball approach that heralds to a forgotten era of film while using an incredibly stacked cast. Of all the Coen Brothers films I’ve seen, Burn After Reading feels like the property that all involved enjoyed making the most. Like many of the Coen Brothers films, the cast on this one is mega-stacked, and from top to bottom, everyone involved shines in roles that go against their standard types, or amplify the most off-beat aspects of their performing ability.

15. The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (2018) The fact that Netflix was able to pull the Coen Brothers for a film is a win in itself, and with the duo choosing to do an anthology piece, Netflix was primed to maximize on their investment. While highly entertaining, however, the anthology nature of the property leaves it feeling a bit unfocused and disjointed at times... none of these stories really had enough meat on the bone to be expanded into feature-length films of their own, but for some reason, all parties involved passed on the opportunity to make a multi-episode serial rather than a film comprised of multiple tales. While using variance in storytelling methods and visual styles may work for some less talented directors, in the case of The Ballad of Buster Scruggs, it feels more like snack-sized bites in the place of true sustenance.

14. The Ladykillers (2004) On paper, this film should have been a disaster. The Coen Brothers generally opt for original stories, so the fact that they chose to adapt such an obscure 1950s property for the modern day was strange, especially in light of the fact that most every element with the exception of Tom Hanks’ character was given a modern update. Somehow, despite all of this oddness, The Ladykillers managed to capture a sense of the classic Coen Brothers slapstick comedy that they famously established themselves with early on in their career. Tom Hanks is given the green light to go completely ridiculous, and to much of the viewers’ delight, he does so with great aplomb. His supporting cast shines, the comedic turn brings new energy to the story, and the southern gospel setting brings a rich sense of spirituality to an otherwise run of the mill film.

13. O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000) The Coen Brothers were essentially household names by the turn of the 20th century, but O Brother, Where Art Thou? propelled them into a legendary status. The grassroots mix of The Odyssey and the Robert Johnson crossroads legend took on a life of its own, leaving behind a soundtrack that birthed an entire generation of folk and bluegrass enthusiasts, as well as a film that showed the world George Clooney’s comedic chops. Much like The Ladykillers, O Brother puts viewers deep into the unfamiliar territory of Southern ‘discomfort’, with the African-American experience playing a major role in the narrative. Of all the Coen Brothers films one could use to introduce a stranger to their catalog, this one may be the best, as its infectious nature and stunning look leaves an impression on most anyone who has the pleasure to view it.

12. True Grit (2010) The Coen Brothers had already covered a wide bit of genre ground within their first three decades, but surprisingly, they’d not done a true western up to that point (though many argue that No Country For Old Men is a modern take on the western). Therefore, when it was announced that their first western would be a remake of the iconic John Wayne film True Grit, many were surprised, and curious if they could pull it off. Not only did they pull it off, but in my humble opinion, they made a version that more than holds its own against the original. For the handful of big name and seasoned actors that signed on, it was the breakthrough performance of relative newcomer Hailee Steinfeld that outshined all. While The Ballad of Buster Scruggs was a fun revisit to the world of the western, True Grit was the kind of achievement that makes me want more traditional westerns from the duo.

11. The Man Who Wasn’t There (2001) Listing the Coen Brothers films is by far the most difficult ranking I’ve done to date, and the first film that really gave me trouble in terms of placement was The Man Who Wasn’t There. Personally, I find this film to be captivating and nearly flawless... Billy Bob Thornton’s detachment is rich and intrusive, which makes it all the more sinister when he does choose to exude even a hint of passion about something, be it positive or negative. The black and white photography, in league with the tone of the film, puts me in the mindset of films like In Cold Blood, and some of the sequences in the film stand out as some of the most iconic in the world of Coen Brothers films, especially the car crash. For a classic-style film noir, a genre that anyone with half a brain knew was a slam dunk for the Coens, the duo went above and beyond to both modernize and wholly embody the style. One of several Coen Brothers films that sits with you long after the final credits have faded away.

10. Inside Llewyn Davis (2013) If this isn’t the darkest comedy in the Coen collection, it’s certainly giving the number one contender a run for its money. The intimacy of this film is unmatched within the broader collection of Coen characters, excluding The Dude, but the difference between Llewyn and The Dude is the personality equivalent of the difference between oil and water. You may marvel at Llewyn’s talent, but all the while, the film is screaming at you that ��THIS IS A CHARACTER YOU SHOULD NOT ROOT FOR”. The symbolism found in the film is minimal while being incredibly effective in how it punctuates Llewyn’s personality and character, and the story structure is an equally subtle swerve that baits you into paying deeper attention, only to realize that the setup was the punchline the entire time.

9. The Hudsucker Proxy (1994) I’m a sucker for a Coen Brothers comedy, especially the ones that play like human cartoons, and one of their absolute best was The Hudsucker Proxy. The writing on this film is so tight that it would absolutely pop if it were any tighter. The entire A Christmas Carol-esque approach to the story makes it a wonderful moralistic tale that makes people laugh so much that they often don’t realize they are being taught a lesson about morals, integrity and self-respect. Tons of familiar character actors fill the frames, everyone tasked with supporting roles fit firmly and comfortably into the created world, and the man trio of Tim Robbins, Jennifer Jason Leigh and Paul Newman are functioning on genius levels of performance... especially Jennifer Jason Leigh. While not quite a holiday movie, there is enough of a holiday sense that it could be shoehorned into a seasonal viewing, but any time set aside for this gem is the right time to watch it.

8. Barton Fink (1991) In my humble opinion, this may be the strongest end to end performance from John Turturro in his long and storied career. As clear-cut fans of film, it is always a pleasure to see the Coen Brothers explore the world of film, and by using this approach, they are able to tell a bold, brash and haunting tale about the issues that come with assumptions about character and talent. The takes on Hollywood and the indifference of those in power, especially when it comes to assisting young and promising talents that may one day usurp them, and powerful. The real bow on the story, however, is the larger than life presence of John Goodman, who goes from being a slightly aggressive and overbearing sense of support to a literal madman by both name and action. For a film that mainly consists of individuals talking to one another about passion, talent and secrets, there is a kinetic energy that feeds the forward momentum of this movie, and for that, it stands out in the Coen collection.

7. Miller’s Crossing (1990) It’s not surprising that the Coen Brothers could make a compelling and memorable gangster film, but I don’t think that anyone expected a film as vicious and dark as Miller’s Crossing. For a duo that generally relies on nuance and contemplation to get their points across, this film certainly proves that they are more than capable of excelling in the direct approach as well. The era-specific costuming is outstanding, the murky city areas stand in stark contrast to the woods of the titular Miller’s Crossing, and the sheer volume of bullets are a stark reminder of the Prohibition-era story we are viewing. Gabriel Byrne shines in his lead role, bringing a world of fury, deceit and mistrust in tow with him. The iconic hat blowing in the wind serves as not only the biggest memorable moment from the film, but possibly also the single moment of peace and beauty found in a film that holds up a dirty mirror to a dark world.

6. A Serious Man (2009) Of all Coen Brothers films, this is easily the most underappreciated and slept on of the bunch. I’m a sucker for movies that embrace Murphy’s Law, and when mixed with the parable nature of the Book of Job, we are presented with a darkly comic and relatively unique version of the hero’s journey. The way that the personal, professional and philosophical problems pile up on Michael Stuhlbarg’s Larry are meant to be felt by the audience, and the way that his bad luck boomerangs out into the world during the film’s resolution must be seen in order to be believed. The way that destiny and chance dance around one another in this film is narratively breathtaking, and for such a subtle film, it is a truly remarkable achievement.

5. No Country For Old Men (2007) When you think of the Coen Brothers, you don’t necessarily think of evil incarnate, and yet, the duo succeeded in capturing a character in the form of Anton Chigurh, the closest thing to the Terminator that the duo has ever created (to my knowledge). The story is a wonderful, subtle tale of how the times can change into something we don’t recognize before we recognize the change, but it is easily Javier Bardem’s iconic performance that gives this film all of its power and ominous energy. His unyielding forward momentum, his disdain for obstacles in any form, and his disregard for human life are enough to instill real fear into those who partake in viewings, and his presence will more than likely haunt you far beyond completion of the film. A true modern-day masterpiece that would have been higher, if not for...

4. Blood Simple (1984) What a powerful debut, and one that not only hinted at, but outright put the spotlight on the promise of the Coen Brothers when it came to stark visuals and stunning storytelling. For such a simple, small scale story, the tangled web that is woven is a slippery slope of deception and distrust that leaves little to no survivors in its wake. The scale of the film is deceptively small, but the quality shines in every aspect that it can. Seeds are placed that pay off wonderfully, and the color palette presented gives the film the feeling of a Technicolor film-noir. Much like A Serious Man, Blood Simple deserves to be talked about and held up much more than it is by fans of film.

3. Raising Arizona (1987) What a wonderfully ridiculous movie about something as simple as the trials and tribulations of navigating love, marriage and parenthood. The most hilarious aspect of this film, in my opinion, is how it feels like a living and breathing cartoon, both in terms of the character performances and the outrageous events that take place within the world of the film. Nicolas Cage is operating on a completely different level, Holly Hunter is equal parts charming and hilarious, Trey Wilson is wonderfully over the top, John Goodman and William Forsythe bring excess hilarity to the wild proceedings, and Randall “Tex” Cobb is downright iconic in terms of his ridiculous character. The pacing of the film is breakneck and feverish, the comedy hits never stop coming, and the utter charm emanating from the midst of the caper presented is infectious. As a second film, this could not be any more different than Blood Simple, and yet somehow, it connected so vividly with viewers that it remains a must-watch film to this day.

2. Fargo (1996) What is there to be said about Fargo that has not already been said? For a duo with more iconic films to their name than some directors have completed films, Fargo was an immediate signal that the limits of the Coen Brothers’ creativity and skill had not even began to show its full breadth. Within less than five years of release, the film was already heralded as a classic (of all-time, not just modern day), the mystery surrounding its possibility of being based on a true story built a world of intrigue around the movie, and it has gone on to create a universe of its own in the form of an FX TV show that recently wrapped its fourth season. There is not a wasted role in this film, and to this day, any movie fan worth their salt will happily bust out their version of a Minnesota accent that is almost certainly based on one of the many memorable characters that inhabit the world of Fargo. Numerous actors, including William H. Macy, Frances McDormand and Steve Buscemi, all found breakout success in the wake of this wonderful film.

1. The Big Lebowski (1998) Was there ever any doubt for this placement? For everything that Fargo did in terms of success within the world of the film industry, The Big Lebowski did that and more for the worlds of the counter-culture and cult film fans. The story we are presented with is so simple, yet so ridiculous in its journey, that it almost insists on viewers revisiting it over and over. Like many Coen Brothers films, nobody cast in the film is wasted or misused, and due to these stellar performances, the film finds itself as one of the most quotable in recent memory. Much like the performances of the cast, the writing does not waste any words or opportunities, often referring back to itself in extremely subtle and nuanced ways that present themselves over time, and to hilarious effect. Nobody would have expected a film of this nature to have a fandom, and yet, the legions of fans for this film are unique to that of the Coen Brothers catalog in the sense of their dedication, devotion to and love of the movie. While not everyone’s cup of tea upon first viewing, The Big Lebowski is truly an example of the gift that keeps on giving.

If the Coen Brothers never make another film, they’ve already created and achieved more in their journey that most filmmakers can dream of. Many of their films could honestly be considered works of art, and nearly all of them are compelling with an ability to leave deep and lasting impressions. If you are unfamiliar with the Coen Brothers, do yourself a favor and check out their work, as it may bring a new sense of invigoration to your love of film.

Editor’s Note (12/10/2020) : Inside Llewyn Davis added to the number 10 position, all films ranked lower adjusted accordingly.

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