"Agios Paisios — Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano" (Άγιος Παΐσιος — Από τα Φαράσα στον Ουρανό) is a Greek-language biographical drama series centered on the life, spiritual journey, and legacy of Elder (Saint) Paisios of Mount Athos (Saint Paisios the Athonite). Season 1 dramatizes his early life through key events that shaped his faith, monastic vocation, and reputation as a spiritual father and healer.
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Agios Paisios: Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano (Season 1) is a historical-biographical Greek television series that chronicles the early life of Saint Paisios the Athonite. Directed by Stamos Tsamis and written by Giorgos Tsiakkas, the first season premiered on 10 February 2022 on Mega Channel in Greece and Alpha TV in Cyprus. Narrative and Plot
Season 1 follows the life of the Saint (born Arsenios Eznepidis) from his birth in 1924 Cappadocia to his decision to enter monasticism. Key narrative arcs include:
The Uprooting: The story begins in Farasa, Cappadocia, coinciding with the population exchange between Greece and Turkey. Little Arsenios is baptised by Saint Arsenios the Cappadocian just days before the family is forced to flee as refugees.
The Refugee Path: The series depicts the family's arduous journey through Corfu and their eventual settlement in Konitsa, Epirus, where Arsenios grows up.
Early Spiritual Life: It explores the deep influence of his mother, Evlogia, and grandmother, who nurtured his faith through stories of Saint Arsenios.
Army Service and Mount Athos: The season covers his time as a radio operator in the Greek Army (1945) and his initial visits to Mount Athos, culminating in his permanent departure for the monastic life in March 1953. Cast and Production
The production is noted for its high aesthetic value and for being filmed in authentic locations where the Saint lived, including Konitsa and Mount Athos.
Prokopis Agathokleous stars as the adult Saint Paisios, a performance praised by critics for its emotional depth.
Nikitas Tsakiroglou portrays Saint Arsenios the Cappadocian.
Christina Pavlidou plays Evlogia Eznepidi, the Saint's mother.
The series features a poignant musical score by Tuomas Kantelinen, incorporating Byzantine melodies.
Season 1 was a major success, reaching high viewership ratings in Greece. Audiences lauded it for its historical accuracy regarding the Asia Minor refugee crisis and its portrayal of Orthodox spirituality. On IMDb, the series maintains a high rating, with reviewers highlighting the "incredible acting" and its ability to inspire reflection on faith and humility.
The first season of the Greek biographical series Agios Paisios: Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano
(Saint Paisios: From Pharasa to Heaven) follows the early life of Saint Paisios of Mount Athos, from his birth in Cappadocia to his final decision to enter monasticism. Season 1 Story Arc The Uprooting (1924): The story begins in Farasa, Cappadocia
, with the birth of Arsenios Eznepidis (the future Saint Paisios). His birth coincides with the population exchange between Greece and Turkey. He is baptized by Saint Arsenios the Cappadocian
, who predicts the infant's future by giving him his own name so he may "leave a monk at his feet". The Journey as Refugees:
The Eznepidis family and their fellow villagers endure a painful journey to Greece. They first settle in
, where they face significant hardships and the death of their spiritual guide, Saint Arsenios. Settling in Konitsa: The family eventually moves to Konitsa, Epirus
, where Arsenios grows up. His mother and grandmother nurture his deep faith through stories and prayer. At age 12, he chooses to become a carpenter's apprentice to help support his family instead of attending high school. Military Service & Spiritual Trials:
As a young man, Arsenios is called to serve in the Greek army during a period of conflict (WWII and the Greek Civil War). He serves as a radio operator and prays fervently to the Virgin Mary that he might complete his service without ever having to kill another person. The Path to Monasticism:
After fulfilling his obligations to his family and finishing his military service, Arsenios makes the permanent move to Mount Athos
. The season concludes with his entrance into the Esphigmenou Monastery as a novice, where he begins his formal journey into monastic life. Key Characters
Agios Paisios: Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano (Season 1) – A Spiritual Journey to the Small Screen
In early 2022, Greek television witnessed a rare phenomenon. A biographical series titled Agios Paisios: Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano (Saint Paisios: From Pharasa to Heaven) premiered on Mega Channel, shattering viewership records and sparking a renewed interest in the life of one of the most beloved figures in modern Orthodox Christianity.
Season 1 of this epic production is more than just a historical drama; it is a meticulously crafted pilgrimage through the early years of Arsenios Eznepidis, the man who would eventually become known to the world as Saint Paisios the Athonite. The Historical Backdrop: From Cappadocia to Greece
The first season begins in the early 1920s in Pharasa, Cappadocia. The narrative captures a pivotal and painful moment in Hellenic history: the Great Catastrophe and the subsequent population exchange between Greece and Turkey.
The Inspiring Life of Agios Paisios: A Journey from Farasa to Heaven - Season 1
Agios Paisios, a renowned Greek Orthodox monk, has been a beacon of spiritual guidance and inspiration for countless individuals around the world. His remarkable life story, which spans from his humble beginnings in Farasa to his eventual rise to sainthood, is a testament to the transformative power of faith and devotion. The television series "Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano" (From Farasa to Heaven) brings to life the extraordinary experiences of this beloved spiritual leader, offering viewers a glimpse into the life and teachings of Agios Paisios.
Early Life and Spiritual Awakening
Born in 1921 in the village of Farasa, Cappadocia, Turkey, Efstathios Veloulis, later known as Agios Paisios, grew up in a world marked by turmoil and upheaval. The Asia Minor Catastrophe of 1922, which led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Greeks from their ancestral homeland, had a profound impact on the young Efstathios and his family. This traumatic event would shape his worldview and ultimately guide him towards a life of spirituality and service.
As a young man, Efstathios was drawn to the Orthodox faith, sensing a deep connection to the teachings of Christ and the early Church Fathers. His spiritual awakening was gradual, yet profound, and he began to pursue a life of prayer, fasting, and charitable works. This early devotion would lay the foundation for his future as a monk and spiritual leader.
The Monastic Life
In 1945, Efstathios joined the Holy Apostle and Martyr Andrew Monastery in Burgas, Bulgaria, where he received the monastic name "Paisios." This marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to the monastic life, which would take him to various corners of the Orthodox world. Paisios' spiritual journey was guided by his unwavering dedication to prayer, humility, and love for his fellow man. Agios Paisios- Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano- Season 1
Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Paisios traveled extensively, visiting numerous monasteries and engaging with spiritual leaders, including the renowned Elder Joseph the Hesychast. These encounters not only deepened his understanding of Orthodox theology but also instilled in him a profound sense of compassion and empathy for those seeking spiritual guidance.
Theological Contributions and Legacy
Agios Paisios' teachings and writings have had a profound impact on contemporary Orthodox spirituality. His emphasis on the importance of prayer, watchfulness, and humility resonated with seekers from all walks of life. Through his counsel and guidance, he helped countless individuals navigate the complexities of modern life, pointing them towards the timeless wisdom of the Church Fathers.
One of Paisios' most significant contributions was his unwavering commitment to promoting ecumenical understanding and unity. He tirelessly worked to bridge the gaps between different Christian denominations, fostering dialogue and cooperation. His efforts continue to inspire ecumenical initiatives and Orthodox-Catholic dialogue.
The Television Series: "Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano"
The television series "Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano" (From Farasa to Heaven) brings to life the remarkable story of Agios Paisios, offering viewers a compelling and intimate portrayal of his journey. Through a combination of historical reenactments, interviews with those who knew him, and stunning cinematography, the series provides an immersive experience, transporting viewers to the world of Agios Paisios.
Season 1: An Overview
Season 1 of "Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano" explores the early life of Efstathios Veloulis, from his childhood in Farasa to his initial steps on the path of monasticism. The episodes weave a narrative that is both poignant and inspiring, highlighting the pivotal moments that shaped his spiritual journey.
Conclusion
The life of Agios Paisios serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith and devotion. Through his remarkable journey, we are reminded of the importance of humility, compassion, and love. The television series "Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano" offers a captivating glimpse into the life and teachings of this beloved spiritual leader, inspiring viewers to embark on their own path of spiritual discovery.
As we reflect on the life of Agios Paisios, we are invited to contemplate our own relationship with the divine, to seek guidance from the wisdom of the Church Fathers, and to cultivate a deeper sense of empathy and understanding for those around us. May his example inspire us to strive for holiness, and may his legacy continue to illuminate the path of those seeking spiritual growth and enlightenment.
Here is some content for "Agios Paisios- Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano- Season 1":
Title: Agios Paisios - Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano (Saint Paisios - From the Trenches to Heaven)
Season 1: The Life and Struggles of a Modern Saint
Episode 1: "The Call to Sainthood"
The series begins with the birth of Arsenios Pavlakis, later known as Saint Paisios, in 1921 in Farasa, Cappadocia, Turkey. We follow his early life, marked by a deep connection to his faith and his family. As a young boy, Arsenios experiences a strong sense of spirituality, which would eventually lead him to become a monk.
Episode 2: "The Refugee's Journey"
The Greco-Turkish War forces Arsenios and his family to flee their homeland. We see the hardships they face as refugees, and how these experiences shape Arsenios' worldview and faith. This episode sets the stage for his future spiritual struggles and his desire to dedicate his life to God.
Episode 3: "The Monk's Robe"
Arsenios arrives at the Holy Apostle and St. Menas Monastery in Nea Skiti, Mount Athos. He meets his spiritual father, Fr. Dionysius, who sees the potential for sainthood in the young monk. Arsenios takes the name Paisios and begins his journey as a monastic, learning the ways of the Orthodox Church and struggling with his own weaknesses.
Episode 4: "The Struggle with Temptation"
Fr. Paisios faces numerous challenges as a young monk, including temptations and spiritual attacks. We see his inner struggles and how he overcomes them through prayer, fasting, and guidance from his spiritual father. This episode highlights the importance of spiritual guidance and the role of the Church in the life of a monk.
Episode 5: "The Gift of Healing"
As Fr. Paisios grows in his spiritual life, he begins to exhibit extraordinary gifts, including the ability to heal others. We see examples of his healing ministry and how it affects those around him. This episode explores the relationship between spiritual growth and the manifestation of spiritual gifts.
Episode 6: "The Martyr's Crown"
The series takes a dramatic turn as Fr. Paisios faces severe persecution and imprisonment for his faith during the Communist regime in Greece. We see his bravery and witness to Christ, even in the face of extreme suffering. This episode serves as a testament to the power of faith and the impact of a life dedicated to God.
Episode 7: "The New Prophet"
After his release from prison, Fr. Paisios becomes known for his prophetic gifts and his ability to counsel and guide others. We see him helping pilgrims and monks, offering spiritual direction and guidance. This episode showcases his role as a spiritual father and a vessel for God's wisdom.
Episode 8: "The Transfiguration"
The season concludes with Fr. Paisios' later years, marked by increased physical suffering and spiritual exaltation. We witness his transfiguration, a glimpse of his spiritual state, and his passing into eternal life. This episode provides a fitting conclusion to the first season, highlighting the journey of Saint Paisios from the trenches to heaven.
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This content provides a solid foundation for a compelling and informative series about the life and struggles of Saint Paisios. The episodes can be expanded or modified to fit the specific vision and goals of the production team. "Agios Paisios — Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano"
The Greek television series " Agios Paisios: Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano
" (Saint Paisios: From Farasa to Heaven) is a historical-biographical drama that chronicles the life of Saint Paisios the Athonite. Season 1, which premiered on Mega Channel in Greece on February 10, 2022, consists of nine episodes. Plot Summary
Season 1 follows the early life of Saint Paisios (born Arsenios Eznepidis) and the turbulent historical context of his childhood.
Uprooting and Refuge: The series begins in 1924 in Farasa, Cappadocia, coinciding with the population exchange between Greece and Turkey. Shortly before the village was abandoned, Arsenios was baptized by Saint Arsenios the Cappadocian, who named him after himself.
Settlement in Greece: The Eznepidis family, along with other refugees, journeyed to Greece, temporarily settling in Corfu before eventually putting down roots in Konitsa, Epirus.
Formative Years: The narrative depicts Arsenios growing up in Konitsa, where he learned the trade of carpentry to support his family. His mother and grandmother were pivotal in nurturing his deep faith and love for monastic life.
Military and Monastic Beginnings: The season covers his service in the Greek Army as a radio operator in 1945. Upon his discharge, it traces his initial visits to Mount Athos, leading up to his ultimate decision to embrace monasticism. Production and Cast
The series was created by Giorgos Tsiakkas and directed by Stamos Tsamis. It was filmed on location in areas where Saint Paisios lived, including Konitsa, Corfu, and Mount Athos.
Apo ta Farasa ston ourano (TV Series 2022– ) - Episode list
Agios Paisios: From Farasa to Heaven (Season 1) – A Journey of Faith
In the landscape of modern television, it is rare to find a production that captures both the historical gravity of the early 20th century and the ethereal nature of spiritual devotion. "Agios Paisios: Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano" (Saint Paisios: From Farasa to Heaven) has done exactly that. Season 1 of this acclaimed Greek series offers a profound look into the early life of one of the Orthodox Church’s most beloved contemporary saints.
If you are looking for a deep dive into the historical context, the production quality, and the spiritual themes of the first season, here is everything you need to know. The Historical Backdrop: From Cappadocia to Greece
Season 1 begins not in a monastery, but in the village of Farasa in Cappadocia. The story opens during a period of immense upheaval—the 1924 population exchange between Greece and Turkey.
The series masterfully portrays the heartbreak of the "Megali Katastrofi" (the Great Catastrophe) through the eyes of the Eznepidis family. We witness the birth of Arsenios Eznepidis (the future Saint Paisios) and his baptism by Saint Arsenios the Cappadocian, who prophetically gave the infant his own name so he would "leave a monk in his place." Plot Summary: The Making of a Man of God
The first season follows Arsenios from his infancy to his young adulthood. Key narrative arcs include:
The Exodus: The grueling journey of the Farasa refugees as they travel to Greece, eventually settling in Konitsa.
Youthful Piety: The depiction of Arsenios as a young boy who preferred prayer and the lives of the saints over the typical games of childhood.
The Carpenter’s Life: Before he was a monk, Arsenios was a skilled carpenter. The series highlights his diligence and his reputation for being a "selfless" worker who often helped the poor without pay.
The Army Years: A significant portion of Season 1 focuses on his service as a radio operator (the "God's telegraphist") during the Greek Civil War, showcasing his bravery and his refusal to carry a weapon, choosing instead to protect his comrades through prayer. Production Values and Casting
What sets this series apart from typical hagiographies is its cinematic quality. Directed by Stamos Tsamis and written by George Tsiakkas, the show avoids "preachy" tropes, opting instead for a gritty, realistic portrayal of rural Greek life.
Prokopis Agathokleous: His performance as the adult Arsenios is transformative. He captures the saint's characteristic humility and the "joyful sorrow" that defined his countenance.
Nikitas Tsakiroglou: As Saint Arsenios the Cappadocian, Tsakiroglou provides a powerful spiritual foundation for the early episodes.
Authenticity: The filming locations in Konitsa and the use of traditional music create an immersive atmosphere that transports viewers back to the 1930s and 40s. Spiritual Themes: Why It Resonates
"Agios Paisios: Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano" is more than a biography; it is a meditation on patience and sacrifice. Season 1 emphasizes that sanctity isn't born in a vacuum—it is forged in the fires of displacement, poverty, and war.
Viewers are drawn to the relatable nature of Arsenios’ struggles. He isn't portrayed as a distant, perfect figure, but as a man who constantly struggled to align his will with God's, even when faced with the societal pressures of his time. Where to Watch and Impact
The series originally aired on MEGA TV in Greece, achieving record-breaking viewership. Its success proved that there is a massive global appetite for high-quality, faith-based storytelling.
Season 1 concludes as Arsenios finally sets off for Mount Athos, marking the end of his worldly life and the beginning of his legendary ascetic journey. It leaves the audience eager to see his transformation into the Elder Paisios that the world would eventually come to know.
Whether you are a devout believer or a fan of historical dramas, Agios Paisios: Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano - Season 1 is a landmark piece of television that explores the heights of human spirit and the depths of divine love.
Introduction
"Agios Paisios- Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano" (Saint Paisios: From the Farasa to Heaven) is a Greek television series that aired in 2022, based on the life of Saint Paisios, a beloved Greek Orthodox monk known for his remarkable spiritual gifts and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. The show's first season follows the saint's journey from his early years to his monastic life, showcasing his struggles, spiritual growth, and interactions with the people he encountered. This essay will provide an overview of the first season of the series, exploring its themes, character development, and historical context.
The Life of Saint Paisios
Saint Paisios (1921-1994) was a Greek Orthodox monk who lived a life of extraordinary spirituality, humility, and love. Born in Farasa, Cappadocia, Turkey, he experienced the traumatic events of the Asia Minor Catastrophe, which led him to seek a life of spiritual devotion. He became a monk in the Holy Mount of Athos, where he spent many years cultivating his spiritual gifts, developing a deep understanding of human nature, and offering guidance to those seeking it. His fame spread, and people from all over the world sought his counsel, which was characterized by simplicity, compassion, and spiritual depth.
The Series: Season 1
The first season of "Agios Paisios- Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano" explores the saint's early years, his family background, and the formative experiences that shaped his spiritual journey. The show's creators aimed to bring to life the saint's story, highlighting his relationships with his family, friends, and spiritual guides. The series portrays his struggles with his own nature, his search for meaning, and his gradual turn towards a life of prayer and asceticism. Agios Paisios: Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano (Season
The show's narrative is structured around key events and encounters that marked Saint Paisios' path. From his childhood in Farasa to his monastic tonsure, the series presents a compelling portrayal of a young man's transformation into a spiritual giant. The production values are high, with engaging cinematography, and performances that bring the characters to life.
Themes and Character Development
Throughout the first season, several themes emerge, central to which is the saint's spiritual growth and development. The show explores the complexities of his personality, revealing his vulnerabilities, struggles, and triumphs. His relationships with others are also skillfully depicted, demonstrating his capacity for empathy, compassion, and discernment.
One of the most striking aspects of the series is its attention to historical detail. The show's creators have made a concerted effort to accurately represent the cultural, social, and spiritual context of Saint Paisios' life, transporting viewers to the landscapes of Cappadocia, the Holy Mount of Athos, and other significant locations.
Conclusion
"Agios Paisios- Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano- Season 1" offers a captivating portrayal of a remarkable individual's life, journey, and spiritual transformation. By exploring the saint's early years, relationships, and struggles, the series provides a compelling narrative that both informs and inspires. The show's attention to historical detail, engaging performances, and thoughtful character development make it a valuable contribution to the world of Greek television and a worthy tribute to the legacy of Saint Paisios.
The series not only sheds light on the life of a remarkable spiritual figure but also invites viewers to reflect on their own spiritual journeys, encouraging them to seek a deeper connection with God, themselves, and others. As such, "Agios Paisios- Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano" is a series that will resonate with audiences seeking inspiration, guidance, and a deeper understanding of the human experience.
The first season of Agios Paisios: Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano
(Saint Paisios: From Pharasa to Heaven) is a 9-episode biographical drama that chronicles the early life of Saint Paisios the Athonite from his birth in 1924 to his entry into monasticism. Season 1 Overview
Season 1 focuses on the Saint's secular years as Arsenios Eznepidis, emphasizing his family's refugee journey from Cappadocia and his spiritual formation. Genre: Biography, Drama, History. Original Network: Mega Channel (Greece).
Filming Locations: Authentic sites where the Saint lived, including Konitsa, Corfu, and Mount Athos.
Key Creative Team: Written by Giorgos Tsiakkas and directed by Stamos Tsamis.
Prokopis Agathokleous: Portrays the young Arsenios (Saint Paisios).
Nikitas Tsakiroglou: Features as Saint Arsenios the Cappadocian, who baptized Paisios.
Hristina Pavlidou: Plays Evlogia Eznepidi, the Saint's mother.
Dimitris Xanthopoulos: Portrays Prodromos Eznepidis, the Saint's father. Season 1 Episode Guide
Season 1 premiered on February 10, 2022, and concluded on April 7, 2022. Key Plot Points 1-2
Arsenios is born in Farasa, Cappadocia; his family and fellow villagers are uprooted and take the road of refuge to Greece. 3-4
The refugees settle in Corfu; spiritual guide Father Arsenios passes away; the family eventually settles permanently in Konitsa, Epirus. 5-6
Young Arsenios grows up in Konitsa, facing the difficulties of a refugee child while deepening his faith and starting his first prayers. 7-8
Arsenios serves as a radio operator in the army during World War II; upon discharge, he reveals his intention to leave for Mount Athos. 9
Arsenios fulfills his family obligations and moves to Mount Athos, where he is tonsured as a monk and takes the name Paisios.
Apo ta Farasa ston ourano (TV Series 2022– ) - Episode list
Here’s a content concept for “Agios Paisios - Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano - Season 1” (Saint Paisios: From Farasa to Heaven). The title suggests a biographical drama or documentary series tracing his life from his birthplace in Farasa, Cappadocia, to his heavenly glorification.
Agios Paisios – Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano (Season 1)
Tagline: “From the sands of Farasa to the glory of Heaven – the journey of a humble saint.”
The series shows repentance not as morbid self-hatred but as a joyful return to God. Young Arsenios’s mistakes are presented as stepping stones to humility.
Title: Agios Paisios - Apo ta Farasa ston Ourano (Season 1) Verdict: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
In an era of television dominated by anti-heroes, political intrigue, and cynicism, Agios Paisios arrives as a stark, almost alien counter-programming. It is a series that dares to be quiet in a loud world. While Season 1 covers the early years of the saint—from his birth in the mystical atmosphere of Farasa, Cappadocia, to his struggles as a young monk—it is less of a biopic and more of a hagiography brought to life.
The Pilgrimage of Production Filmed largely on location at the Holy Monastery of St. John the Theologian in Souroti, the series carries an air of authenticity that studio sets simply cannot replicate. The cinematography is warm and earthy, capturing the rugged beauty of the landscapes and the austere serenity of the monastic cells.
Aris Servetalis undertakes the monumental task of portraying Elder Paisios. It is a performance built not on grand gestures, but on micro-expressions. He captures the Saint’s famous humility and the distinct "childlike" joy often described by those who knew him. However, he does not shy away from the physical and spiritual struggles of a young man named Arsenios before he became the Elder we venerate. You see the weight of his asceticism, not just as a plot point, but as a lived, exhausting reality.
Narrative Pacing and Tone If there is a criticism to be leveled at Season 1, it is the pacing. For viewers accustomed to the breakneck speed of modern drama, the show’s tempo will feel glacial. But this slowness is clearly intentional. The director forces the viewer to align their rhythm with the rhythm of the monastery. We are meant to sit in the silence, to endure the boredom of the cell, and to listen to the prayers.
This season excels at contextualizing history. The scenes depicting the exodus from Asia Minor and the family’s struggles in Greece provide a necessary historical anchor. It reminds us that the Saint was not born into a vacuum; he was shaped by the tragedy of the refugee experience (the "Prosfyges") and the poverty of the times.
A Spiritual Spectacle What makes this review "interesting" to write is the show’s primary conflict. In most TV, conflict is external (man vs. man, man vs. nature). Here, the conflict is almost entirely internal (man vs. self, man vs. sin).
Watching a character battle his own ego and his own will to submit to God’s will is unexpectedly gripping. The show treats miracles not as Hollywood special effects, but as quiet, intimate ruptures of reality that often go unnoticed by the crowd. It grounds the supernatural in the soil of daily life.
The Verdict Season 1 is a success because it knows its audience and respects its subject. It does not try to modernize the Saint to make him "cool"; it presents him as he was—a fool for Christ.
It is a soothing balm for the soul, best watched not as entertainment, but as a meditation. While it may lack the "hook" of secular thrillers, it offers something rarer: a sense of peace that lingers after the credits roll.
