Dissemination of information relating to the upcoming fifth season of the Netflix series "Stranger Things" has occurred prior to its official release. This includes details about the plot, characters, and potential events. Such pre-release information, often appearing online prematurely, can vary significantly in reliability, ranging from credible insights to unfounded speculation.
The existence of these leaks underscores the significant anticipation surrounding the new season. This anticipation is often a driving force behind considerable media attention and discussion surrounding the series. These leaks, while potentially spoiling the viewing experience for some, can also generate substantial online buzz and generate discussion about themes and narrative trajectories even before official release. The influence of these leaks on viewer engagement and critical reception is a topic for future analysis.
Further exploration of this phenomenon will delve into the source, reliability, and impact of such leaked information. It will also consider the ethical and legal implications involved, as well as the potential effect on the show's overall reception and marketing strategies.
Stranger Things 5 Leaks
Pre-release information regarding the upcoming fifth season of "Stranger Things" has generated significant interest and discussion. Understanding the multifaceted nature of these leaks is crucial for comprehending their impact.
- Anticipation
- Speculation
- Plot details
- Character arcs
- Potential spoilers
- Media response
- Impact on marketing
- Source reliability
The leaks highlight the intense anticipation for "Stranger Things 5," influencing online speculation and discussions even before release. Plot details, character arcs, and potential spoilers are common leak components, affecting viewers' experience. Media responses, often varying in tone and intensity, demonstrate the public's engagement. Understanding the sources of these leaks and their reliability is crucial, as these elements can directly impact the show's marketing strategies and overall reception. For instance, accurate leaks about a key character's fate could significantly influence audience perception and anticipation, while unreliable information might detract from the viewing experience. Overall, understanding the intricacies of these leaks provides a lens for examining the complexities of media hype and the powerful connection between creators, media, and viewers.
1. Anticipation
Anticipation surrounding the release of "Stranger Things 5" is a significant factor influencing the impact of pre-release information, or leaks. The intense desire for new content fuels a complex interplay between viewer expectation and the dissemination of potentially spoiler-laden details.
- Public Discourse and Speculation
The pre-release period for "Stranger Things" often generates significant online discussion and speculation. This involves analysis of existing content, potential plot directions, and character development. Leaks, even unsubstantiated ones, can become focal points in these conversations, amplifying their significance within existing anticipation. The eagerness to interpret clues and hints within the series, and the online community's engagement with them, exemplifies this pattern. Examples include online forums, social media posts, and fan theories. This dynamic creates an environment where leaks, regardless of their accuracy, often play a prominent role in shaping anticipation and influencing the narrative surrounding the season.
- Impact on Viewership and Engagement
Heightened anticipation, fueled by leaks, can significantly affect audience engagement with the series. Early exposure to potential plot points or character developments can create excitement, driving interest and anticipation before the official release. However, leaks can also potentially diminish the impact of the surprises or plot twists intended by the creators, potentially reducing the viewing experience's initial impact. Conversely, if leaks prove accurate, they can reinforce anticipation by confirming audience predictions or highlighting significant plot developments. This demonstrates a complex relationship between anticipation and leaks, wherein the value and perception depend heavily on accuracy and timing.
- Influence on Marketing Strategies
Leakage can impact marketing strategies surrounding "Stranger Things 5". Creators may adapt their release strategy to counter the implications of leaks or utilize them to generate further buzz and excitement. The timing and nature of leaks can influence promotional campaigns and public relations efforts. For example, carefully released bits of information might be leveraged to manage expectation or generate pre-launch hype. This emphasizes the need for creators and marketers to consider the effect leaked information has on audience engagement and anticipation.
- Effect on Critical Reception
The anticipation generated by leaks and the overall response to the season can affect critical reception and audience analysis. Excitement generated by leaks may raise pre-release expectations. Subsequently, the degree to which the final product meets or exceeds those expectations may impact initial reviews and eventual long-term assessments of the season. Conversely, negative leaked information could diminish anticipation, leading to a potentially lower critical reception.
In summary, anticipation surrounding "Stranger Things 5" is intrinsically linked to leaks. The degree and nature of these leaks affect the public's perception, engagement, and overall experience leading up to and following the season's release. The precise relationship between leaks and anticipation remains complex and multifaceted, demonstrating the significant influence that pre-release information can have on viewer expectations and overall reception.
2. Speculation
Speculation, a natural human response to uncertainty, plays a significant role in the context of pre-release information regarding "Stranger Things 5." This phenomenon, where individuals form hypotheses and opinions based on incomplete or ambiguous data, is intricately linked with leaks. Understanding the mechanisms of speculation provides insight into the dynamics of public anticipation and its impact on the overall narrative surrounding the series.
- Influence of Existing Content
Prior seasons of "Stranger Things" and related media, including promotional materials, provide a foundation for speculation. Characters' past behaviors, narrative threads, and overall thematic elements fuel discussion and predictions about potential plot developments and character arcs in the upcoming season. Leaks, even seemingly minor details, can further amplify or contradict existing speculation, leading to a complex interplay of prediction and confirmation bias. This fuels discourse and generates an environment where speculation becomes a prominent feature of fan engagement.
- Role of Online Communities
Online forums, social media platforms, and fan-created content become crucial environments for speculation. Discussion threads, fan theories, and analyses of potential plot points exemplify this pattern. The dissemination of leaked information directly impacts these communities. Leaked details can either validate existing theories, offering a sense of confirmation, or challenge them, provoking further analysis and speculation. The interaction between the pre-release information and existing theories and fan discussions highlights the active and dynamic nature of speculation in this context.
- Impact on Viewer Perception
Speculation surrounding "Stranger Things 5" leaks, whether fueled by confirmed details or conjecture, can influence how viewers interpret the final product. This is particularly true if certain speculations align with personal preferences or expectations. If those speculations are later proven accurate, it strengthens the sense of anticipation or recognition. Conversely, inaccurate speculation can detract from the viewing experience, creating a gap between anticipated narrative and actual execution. This interplay between speculation and reality, often triggered by leaks, emphasizes the emotional and cognitive response to the upcoming release.
- Limitations of Speculation
Speculation, by its very nature, is often based on incomplete information. The accuracy of speculation varies widely, and it is crucial to evaluate the source of information when considering the validity of various claims. The potentially misleading nature of speculation, especially when influenced by leaks, underscores the importance of critical thinking and discernment in approaching such discussions. This distinction is crucial for maintaining a nuanced understanding of the phenomenon and its connection to the actual narrative of the upcoming season.
In conclusion, speculation about "Stranger Things 5" is intrinsically linked to the phenomenon of pre-release leaks. The interplay between existing narratives, online communities, viewer perceptions, and the potential limitations of conjecture highlights the complexities of anticipating new content. These elements shape the reception and engagement with the series, ultimately shaping the discussion and impacting the overall narrative surrounding the new season.
3. Plot details
Plot details, inherently central to narrative structure, are a primary focus of pre-release information relating to "Stranger Things 5." The leaks concerning these details significantly impact anticipation and viewer engagement. Understanding the relationship between plot details and leaks requires analyzing how these elements interact in influencing the overall experience.
- Leaked Plot Points' Impact on Anticipation
Premature revelation of key plot points, often through leaks, can significantly alter audience expectations. Accurate leaks might heighten anticipation if they corroborate prevailing fan theories or confirm significant narrative developments. Conversely, leaks revealing surprising or controversial plot turns can raise concerns or lead to a shift in audience perception. The influence of these details on anticipation is often profound, shaping the reception of the final product. Examples include revelations about major character arcs or significant plot twists that could heighten or diminish the overall impact of the story.
- Influence of Plot Details on Speculation
Leaked plot details act as catalysts for speculation, analysis, and discussion within online communities. Fan theories often emerge based on fragmented details, with leaked information providing concrete points for consideration. These theories and analyses can evolve based on the progression of leaked details, shaping anticipation and creating an environment of conjecture and deduction around the season's narrative. This is particularly prevalent in cases where leaked plot points align with existing fan theories or add new layers of complexity to the storyline.
- Influence on Potential Spoilers
The disclosure of plot details through leaks can introduce potential spoilers for viewers. Early knowledge of crucial plot points can severely diminish the surprise factor intended by the creators. The impact on the viewing experience can be substantial. Understanding how these spoilers affect viewer expectations and their ability to fully appreciate the story is crucial in evaluating the overall impact of the leaks. For example, if a major character death is revealed, it removes one of the most dramatic elements from the surprise factor of the actual release.
- Accuracy and Reliability of Plot Detail Leaks
Evaluating the accuracy and reliability of leaked plot details is crucial. Unreliable sources can introduce misinformation, altering audience perceptions and expectations in ways that potentially undermine the integrity of the overall viewing experience. The accuracy of the leaked information plays a significant role in shaping how audiences engage with the story. This highlights the importance of critically evaluating the source of any leak and considering potential biases.
In conclusion, plot details are central to the narrative structure of "Stranger Things 5." Leaks concerning these details generate significant anticipation, influence speculation, pose potential spoiler risks, and ultimately impact the viewing experience. The accuracy and reliability of these leaks play a crucial role in their overall effect.
4. Character Arcs
Character arcs in "Stranger Things 5" are crucial narrative elements. Leaks concerning these arcs significantly impact audience anticipation, potentially revealing critical plot points and influencing how viewers perceive character development and narrative progression. Exploring the connection between character arcs and leaks illuminates the intricate ways pre-release information shapes audience expectation.
- Revealing Character Transformations
Leaks might reveal significant character transformations, impacting how viewers perceive their journeys. Detailed information about a character's struggles, growth, or descent could heighten audience engagement and pre-release anticipation. However, prematurely knowing the outcome of a character's arc may diminish the impact of the reveal. The potential spoilers linked to these reveals are undeniable.
- Influencing Audience Expectations
Information about key relationships, betrayals, or reconciliations significantly influence viewer expectations regarding character development. Leaks detailing emotional conflicts, pivotal decisions, or relationships' fates may establish expectations that could clash with the final product. This, in turn, could affect critical reception and audience satisfaction. A leak suggesting a character's betrayal, for instance, alters the way viewers anticipate their interactions with other characters.
- Impacting Narrative Dynamics
Leaks regarding character arcs can influence the perceived narrative dynamics of the entire season. Details about pivotal character actions, motivations, or underlying conflicts might shape how viewers interpret the overall narrative structure, potentially altering interpretations of plot developments or character motivations. For instance, a leak unveiling a previously unseen motivation for a character's actions could alter interpretations of crucial events.
- Creating Potential Conflicts and Discussions
Leaks regarding character arcs can create significant conflicts and discussions amongst fans. These discussions might center on the plausibility, logic, or morality of leaked events in the context of the established character, potentially stirring debate and speculation about the story's internal consistency or even leading to alternative interpretations of the overall narrative. This is particularly pronounced if leaked details challenge deeply held views about particular characters.
In conclusion, leaks concerning character arcs in "Stranger Things 5" directly affect audience anticipation and interpretation. Understanding the potential impact of these leakson both individual characters and the narrative as a wholeis essential for comprehending the complexities of pre-release information and its influence on the eventual viewing experience.
5. Potential Spoilers
Premature disclosure of narrative details, often referred to as "leaks," significantly impacts the viewing experience of "Stranger Things 5." The potential for spoilers, particularly concerning plot points, character arcs, and significant events, necessitates a nuanced understanding of their impact and implications within the context of public anticipation surrounding the series.
- Impact on Viewing Experience
Anticipating narrative developments, or knowing critical events in advance, alters the very nature of the viewing experience. The element of surprise, crucial for dramatic tension and emotional engagement, is compromised. Viewers deprived of this element may find their connection to the story diminished, focusing instead on the pre-existing knowledge of plot points rather than the unfolding narrative itself.
- Diminished Sense of Discovery
Knowing plot twists or crucial character developments beforehand reduces the sense of discovery and emotional impact. Viewers who have encountered potential spoilers may find themselves less invested in the unfolding events, potentially detracting from the experience. The excitement of anticipation is undermined by the knowledge of eventual outcomes.
- Impact on Critical Reception
The existence and dissemination of potential spoilers can significantly impact the critical reception of "Stranger Things 5." If the leaked information is widely considered inaccurate or misleading, it may fuel criticism concerning creative choices or plot execution. Conversely, if leaks prove reasonably accurate, it may raise expectations for quality or critical acclaim, or potentially incite disappointment when the final product does not fully live up to audience perceptions.
- Ethical Considerations of Disclosure
The deliberate or accidental release of potential spoilers raises ethical questions. The rights of viewers to experience the narrative unfold organically, without pre-emptive knowledge of key events, are potentially compromised. This raises concerns about fairness, respect for the creative process, and the responsibility associated with the dissemination of information, especially concerning a widely anticipated production like "Stranger Things."
In conclusion, potential spoilers embedded within "Stranger Things 5" leaks represent a significant factor in shaping viewer anticipation and experience. The impact ranges from diminished enjoyment to critical reception adjustments, and underscores ethical considerations concerning the disclosure of potentially sensitive narrative details. Understanding these implications is vital in comprehending the broader context of pre-release information for this and similar productions.
6. Media Response
Media response to leaks surrounding "Stranger Things 5" encompasses the various ways media outlets, online communities, and individual commentators react to and discuss pre-release information. This reaction is multifaceted, influenced by the reliability and nature of the leaks themselves. The public discourse generated by media responses plays a significant role in shaping anticipation and potentially impacting the overall reception of the series.
- Coverage and Dissemination
Media outlets, from mainstream news to specialized entertainment sites, often cover leaks. This coverage, regardless of the leak's veracity, can significantly increase public awareness and discussion. Dissemination of information, even if potentially inaccurate, can contribute to a sense of heightened anticipation and drive online conversation. Examples include news articles, social media posts, and online forums discussing leaked plot details.
- Tone and Intensity of Coverage
The tone and intensity of media coverage can vary greatly depending on the nature of the leaks and the perceived credibility of the source. Dramatic or shocking leaks often generate more intense coverage, whether confirming or contradicting existing fan theories. The response might range from enthusiastic speculation to cautious skepticism, depending on perceived reliability and the potential impact on viewer experience. Articles speculating about a major character death, for instance, would likely elicit a more intense response than a leak regarding a minor plot point.
- Impact on Fan Theories and Speculation
Media coverage of leaks often fuels and directs fan theories and speculation. Articles analyzing leaked information provide context and prompt discussion among viewers. This can create a dynamic interaction between media reports and viewer interpretations, with subsequent responses and commentaries adapting to the ongoing dialogue. Examples of this interaction include online discussions on forums or social media platforms where articles or posts serve as the catalyst for speculation.
- Influence on Marketing Strategies
Media coverage of leaks can influence the strategies of production companies or streaming services. A substantial media response to leaks might lead to adjustments in promotional plans or public relations strategies. It highlights the need for a reactive approach to potential leaks and underscores the intricate connection between media response and broader marketing strategies, given the potential impact on viewership and overall reception.
In summary, media response to "Stranger Things 5" leaks underscores the significant interplay between pre-release information, public perception, and the production process. The nuanced nature of media coverage, from initial reporting to ongoing public discourse, reveals the significant role played by leaks in shaping expectations, fan speculation, and marketing strategies surrounding the show's release. Ultimately, the intensity and type of media response can greatly influence the overall reception of the final product.
7. Impact on Marketing
Premature release of information, or leaks, concerning "Stranger Things 5" can significantly impact marketing strategies. The timing and nature of these leaks force production teams to adapt their approach to maintaining audience interest and managing expectations. Understanding this connection requires examining how leaks can influence promotional efforts, potentially requiring adjustments in various stages of the marketing plan.
- Reactive Adjustments to Promotional Campaigns
Leaks often necessitate swift adjustments to planned promotional campaigns. If a leak reveals a crucial plot point, a production team might need to modify or supplement existing materials to counter potential spoilers or mitigate negative reactions. This necessitates proactive communication strategies to address emerging concerns and manage audience perception. For example, if a leak reveals a major character death, marketing materials might need to subtly avoid explicit detail or focus on the overall emotional impact rather than the specifics.
- Impact on Publicity and Public Relations Strategies
Leaks can significantly alter public relations efforts. Production teams must carefully navigate public perception. Responding to leaks promptly and appropriately can prevent misinterpretations and manage the narrative surrounding the series. This might involve clarifying ambiguities in leaks, addressing misinformation, or subtly shifting the focus of public discussion. Careful management of press releases and social media engagement becomes paramount during this period.
- Alteration of Release Strategies and Timing
Leaks can influence release strategies. If significant plot details emerge, production teams might need to reconsider initial launch plans to maximize the impact of the unveiling. Postponing certain promotional activities or adjusting the release schedule to better manage the narrative around the series might be required. This might involve a delay in unveiling specific marketing materials or strategic adjustments in social media releases to minimise potential spoilers.
- Modifying Pre-Release Hype and Promotion
Unexpected leaks can necessitate adjustments to pre-release hype and promotions. A team might shift the focus of marketing from specific plot points to broader themes or character development, prioritizing strategies to maintain excitement without explicitly revealing plot details. This might entail using more evocative imagery or focusing on the overall emotional impact of the season, rather than specific events.
In summary, leaks concerning "Stranger Things 5" create a dynamic environment where marketing strategies must adapt. The need for responsiveness and strategic adjustments to promotional plans, public relations, and even release timings highlights the delicate balance between generating excitement and maintaining the integrity of the viewing experience. Production teams must proactively address emerging information to minimize negative consequences and maximize the positive impact on audience anticipation and overall reception.
8. Source Reliability
Assessing the reliability of sources is paramount when evaluating pre-release information, particularly leaks concerning "Stranger Things 5." The veracity of such information directly impacts audience expectation, potentially influencing critical reception and the overall viewing experience. Determining the credibility of sources is crucial for navigating the complex landscape of anticipatory speculation and ensuring a fair evaluation of potential plot details or character arcs.
- Identifying Credible Sources
Establishing trust in a source necessitates examining its track record, reputation, and potential biases. A source with a history of accurate reporting or insider connections within the production or distribution networks surrounding "Stranger Things" would likely carry more weight than one with a history of inaccuracy or known biases. Consideration should also be given to the source's motivation; is it attempting to generate excitement, or does it have a clear agenda?
- Evaluating Information Context
Analyzing the context surrounding leaked information is crucial. Leaks emerging from specific, verifiable sources within the production process, coupled with corroborating evidence, increase reliability. Conversely, anonymous sources or those lacking clear connection to the production process often carry less weight. This context should be examined to assess potential biases or motivations driving the disclosure.
- Assessing Consistency and Corroboration
Evaluating the consistency of leaked information with established narrative elements or public knowledge is important. Leaks that seamlessly integrate with existing content and are corroborated by multiple sources increase reliability. In contrast, information that contradicts established lore, lacks supporting details, or is contradicted by other sources should be viewed with skepticism.
- Considering Potential Motivation
Understanding the potential motivations of information providers is critical. A source seeking to manipulate expectations, generate controversy, or disrupt marketing strategies would likely provide less reliable information. Examining the potential benefit or harm associated with the leak is key to discerning potential motivations, and helps assess accuracy.
In the case of "Stranger Things 5" leaks, the reliability of sources is fundamental to navigating the complex environment of pre-release anticipation. By carefully evaluating the credibility and potential motivations behind disclosed information, audiences can develop a more informed understanding of the narrative, avoiding potentially misleading or inaccurate details. This critical evaluation is vital for forming accurate expectations and maximizing enjoyment of the eventual release.
Frequently Asked Questions
The recent pre-release information surrounding "Stranger Things 5" has sparked considerable discussion. This FAQ section addresses common concerns and misconceptions surrounding these leaks, providing context and clarity.
Question 1: How reliable is the information contained in these leaks?
Answer: The reliability of "Stranger Things 5" leaks varies significantly. Some leaked information may be accurate, corroborated by reliable sources; other leaks might be entirely fabricated or contain inaccuracies. Critical evaluation of the source and context is essential to discern validity.
Question 2: How do these leaks impact the viewing experience?
Answer: Leaks can potentially diminish the viewing experience for some viewers by spoiling plot twists or key character developments. Early knowledge of critical events reduces the element of surprise and potential emotional impact.
Question 3: What is the source of these leaks?
Answer: Sources of leaks are diverse and range from individuals within the production process to those outside. Determining the authenticity and reliability of these sources is crucial to assessing the validity of leaked information.
Question 4: How do leaks influence fan theories and speculation?
Answer: Leaked information often fuels and shapes fan theories, providing concrete details for analysis. This interplay between leaked information and existing theories generates both excited anticipation and potentially misplaced expectations.
Question 5: How do these leaks affect marketing strategies for "Stranger Things 5"?
Answer: The existence of leaks necessitates adaptations to marketing strategies. Production teams often adjust promotional efforts to manage potential spoilers or misinformation.
Question 6: What are the ethical implications of disclosing potential spoilers through leaks?
Answer: The release of potential spoilers raises ethical concerns related to viewer experience. Disclosing significant events before release deprives viewers of the surprise and potentially diminishes the overall enjoyment.
In conclusion, approaching "Stranger Things 5" leaks with critical thinking is essential. Evaluating source reliability and recognizing the potential impact on the viewing experience are crucial components of understanding the phenomenon. These questions highlight the complexities involved when anticipation and pre-release information intertwine.
This FAQ section provides a starting point for understanding the multifaceted nature of leaks. Further critical analysis of individual leaks and their context is recommended.
Tips for Navigating "Stranger Things 5" Leaks
Pre-release information, or "leaks," surrounding "Stranger Things 5" can significantly impact viewer experience. Approaching this information with careful consideration is crucial. The following tips offer guidance for navigating the complexities of these leaks.
Tip 1: Evaluate Source Reliability. Scrutinize the origin of any information. Consider the source's track record, potential biases, and connection to the production process. Anonymous sources or those with a history of inaccuracy should be treated with skepticism. Reliable sources often corroborate information with multiple accounts or demonstrably verifiable details.
Tip 2: Distinguish Between Speculation and Confirmation. Many pre-release details are speculative interpretations or fan theories. Differentiating genuine insights from unfounded conjectures is important. Look for evidence-based analysis rather than conjecture alone.
Tip 3: Avoid Premature Conclusions. Do not allow leaked information to dictate expectations for the final product. Focus on enjoying the unfolding narrative without predetermined assumptions, preserving the element of surprise.
Tip 4: Develop a Critical Approach to Media Coverage. Evaluate media reports that cover leaks critically. Assess the tone, intensity, and potential biases presented by different outlets. Consider the context surrounding reporting and whether the information presented aligns with other verifiable details.
Tip 5: Limit Exposure to Potentially Spoiler-Filled Content. If encountering leaked information, prioritize controlling exposure to maintain the integrity of the viewing experience. Delay access to specific details or news coverage to preserve the surprises intended by the creators.
Tip 6: Engage in Constructive Discussion. Engage with online discussions surrounding leaks with a critical mindset. Avoid spreading misinformation, and focus on constructive discourse that avoids spoilers for others.
Tip 7: Prioritize Personal Discretion. Consider the impact of leaked information on fellow viewers. Exercise thoughtful judgment in sharing potential spoilers or interpretations, especially with those who might not want to know details before release.
By diligently employing these practical approaches, viewers can navigate the pre-release landscape surrounding "Stranger Things 5" responsibly and efficiently, prioritizing both a critical approach to information and the preservation of a complete and engaging viewing experience.
These tips aim to assist viewers in making informed decisions. Ultimately, the best approach is to engage with the anticipation surrounding "Stranger Things 5" while reserving the full experience for the official release. Avoid premature conclusions and focus on actively participating in the discussion surrounding the series.
Conclusion
The phenomenon of pre-release information, or leaks, surrounding "Stranger Things 5" underscores a complex interplay between audience anticipation, production processes, and media response. Analysis reveals that leaks significantly impact audience expectations, potentially altering the viewing experience. The reliability of these leaks varies greatly, demanding critical evaluation of sources. This pre-emptive disclosure of details can influence online speculation and fan theories, while also potentially affecting marketing strategies and the overall reception of the series. Key aspects highlighted include the impact on anticipation, the role of speculation, the potential for spoilers, the media's response, and the necessity of careful evaluation of source reliability. These elements collectively illustrate the multifaceted nature of pre-release information in the context of highly anticipated productions.
The future of similar situations requires a thoughtful approach. The presence of leaks necessitates a nuanced understanding of their influence on public perception, necessitating a sophisticated balance between generating pre-release excitement and preserving the integrity of the viewing experience. A critical evaluation of sources, a cautious approach to speculation, and a mindful awareness of the potential impact of spoilers are vital for media consumers and producers alike. Maintaining a balance between fostering anticipation and protecting the element of surprise remains a significant consideration in the production and consumption of future highly anticipated media releases. Ultimately, recognizing the power and complexities of pre-release information is crucial for a more informed and responsible engagement with media content.
Article Recommendations
- Georgias Rule Cast Meet The Stars
- Top Muscular Actresses Fierce Fit Female Stars
- Sylvester Stallones 80s Iconic Action Rocky Returns
