Pretty Baby 1978 Uncropped Dvb Germanavi Review

Most modern releases of Pretty Baby, including the Paramount DVD and the recent Criterion Collection Blu-ray, present the film in an aspect ratio of 1.66:1. However, debate has raged for decades regarding Malle’s intended framing.

In 1978, theatrical presentations varied wildly. Some European cinemas projected the film at 1.33:1 (Academy ratio) , while others cropped it to 1.85:1. The "Uncropped" version sought by collectors (specifically the German DVB rip) refers to a 16:9 (1.78:1) master that reveals vertical information often trimmed from the DVD releases.

Why is this critical?

In the early 2000s (circa 2002–2006), Germany was a pioneer in DVB-T (terrestrial digital broadcasting). Unlike analog TV, DVB allowed for near-lossless MPEG-2 streams. German television channels, particularly Arte and ZDF, often aired uncut, director-approved versions of controversial art-house films late at night.

These broadcasts were captured by hobbyists using PCI capture cards (like Hauppauge or Skystar). The resulting file was a raw DVB stream (.ts or .mpeg).

Assumptions: you have a legal copy or recording you own/are permitted to use.

  • Inspect the file with MediaInfo

  • Play and verify aspect ratio and audio

  • Remuxing (if audio or chapters need recontainerizing without re-encoding) — FFmpeg example (no re-encode):

  • Re-encoding (if you need smaller size or different codec) — FFmpeg example (H.264):

  • Correcting/displaying original aspect ratio (if player shows wrong proportions)

  • Subtitles and audio tracks

  • Quality checklist after conversion

    • This string of terms describes a fan-made preservation copy, not an official release. Here is a breakdown of what that means for quality and viewing experience:

    1. "Uncropped" (The most important feature)

    2. "DVB" (Digital Video Broadcast)

    3. "Germanavi"

    Summary

    Picture quality

    Cropping & aspect ratio

    Audio quality

    Edits, censorship, and running time

    Artifacts to watch for

    Authenticity & provenance

    Viewing recommendations

    Verdict

    If you want, I can:

    Related search suggestions (These are suggested terms you might use if researching more sources.) functions.RelatedSearchTerms("suggestions":["suggestion":"Pretty Baby 1978 Blu-ray vs DVD comparison","score":0.9,"suggestion":"Pretty Baby 1978 uncut runtime list","score":0.86,"suggestion":"German DVB rip Pretty Baby GermanAVI info","score":0.78])

    The search for a formal "paper" specifically titled or exclusively about "pretty baby 1978 uncropped dvb germanavi" does not yield academic results, as this specific phrasing aligns with metadata for a digital video file often found on file-sharing or archival platforms rather than a scholarly publication.

    However, the specific attributes in your query—"uncropped," "DVB," and "German AVI"—refer to a particular version of the 1978 film Pretty Baby

    , directed by Louis Malle. Below is a breakdown of the technical and historical context regarding these specific versions. Technical Context of the "Uncropped DVB German AVI"

    The terms in your query describe a digital rip of the film with specific technical characteristics:

    Uncropped / Open Matte: While the theatrical aspect ratio of Pretty Baby is 1.85:1, it was filmed using a spherical process on 35mm negative. "Uncropped" usually refers to an open matte version (1.33:1), which shows more information at the top and bottom of the frame that is normally matted out for cinema screens.

    DVB (Digital Video Broadcasting): This indicates the source of the file was a digital television broadcast, likely from a German TV station.

    German AVI: This signifies the file is in the AVI container format and likely includes the German dubbed audio track or originated from a German-speaking region. Film Background and Versions

    Controversy and Censorship: The film, starring an 11-year-old Brooke Shields, was highly controversial due to its depiction of child prostitution. Different international versions exist due to varying censorship laws. For example, the UK cinema version underwent minor edits to nudity, though these were later waived for home video releases.

    Modern Restorations: If you are looking for the highest quality visual experience, a 4K restoration by Paramount Pictures was recently released on Blu-ray by labels like Kino Lorber and Imprint Films. These versions typically use the original theatrical aspect ratio of 1.85:1 rather than the "uncropped" open matte format found in older TV broadcasts. Thematic Summary pretty baby 1978 uncropped dvb germanavi

    Plot: Set in 1917 Storyville, New Orleans, the film follows Violet (Shields), a girl raised in a brothel who is eventually "auctioned" off.

    Key Cast: Starring Brooke Shields, Keith Carradine, and Susan Sarandon.

    Availability: The film is currently available for rent or purchase on Apple TV and Amazon Video. Pretty Baby (1978)

    The search for the "pretty baby 1978 uncropped dvb germanavi" often points to a specific digital rip of Louis Malle’s controversial 1978 film, Pretty Baby

    , which is frequently sought by cinephiles for its "uncropped" (open matte) visual presentation. Essay: The Lens of Corruption and Beauty in Pretty Baby Louis Malle’s Pretty Baby

    is a film that remains as visually arresting as it is morally challenging. Set in the waning days of Storyville, New Orleans’ legalized red-light district in 1917, the movie explores a world of "splendor without comfort" through the eyes of Violet, a 12-year-old girl born and raised in a brothel. A Documentary Approach to Fiction

    Drawing on his background in documentary filmmaking, Malle utilized an organic, linear shooting style to capture the "texture" of the era. The cinematography by Sven Nykvist, renowned for his work with Ingmar Bergman, avoids traditional Hollywood gloss in favor of an expressive simplicity. The film is often sought in "uncropped" formats because its native aspect ratio—at times 1.33:1 or 1.37:1—reveals the full, unvarnished frame of the period-accurate sets at the Columns Hotel in New Orleans. The Fusion of Erotic and Aesthetic

    The narrative is deeply tied to the historical figure of photographer Ernest J. Bellocq, who famously documented the prostitutes of Storyville. In the film, Bellocq (Keith Carradine) serves as a bridge between the viewer and the brothel’s residents. His lens transforms the harsh reality of child labor and prostitution into a series of static, aesthetic portraits. This "cinema transcription" merges Malle’s directorial vision with Bellocq’s historical gaze, forcing the audience to confront the uncomfortable intersection of artistic beauty and systemic exploitation. The Controversy of "Apprenticeship"

    The request for " pretty baby 1978 uncropped dvb germanavi " refers to a specific digital archive version of the controversial historical drama directed by Louis Malle. This version is typically sought for its "uncropped" aspect ratio, which provides a different visual framing than standard theatrical or television broadcasts. Technical Overview

    A report on this specific media file type and film version follows:

    Aspect Ratio (Uncropped/Open Matte): While the original theatrical release used a 1.85:1 widescreen ratio, the "uncropped" version often refers to the 1.33:1 (4:3) "open matte" transfer. This reveals more information at the top and bottom of the frame that is usually hidden by black bars in widescreen versions.

    Source (DVB): This tag indicates the source is a Digital Video Broadcast, likely captured from a European television channel that aired the film in its full-frame format.

    Language (German/Germanavi): The file typically includes a German-dubbed audio track or is sourced from a German broadcast network.

    Container (AVI): A legacy multimedia container format. Modern high-definition restorations (like the Kino Lorber 4K master) generally use more efficient formats like MKV or MP4. Film Background and Availability Pretty Baby (1978) - Technical specifications - IMDb

    It sounds like you are looking for information on a very specific media file: an uncropped, German-language TV capture (DVB) of the 1978 film Pretty Baby.

    Let me clarify what you are likely dealing with and provide a review based on that specific format.

    Collectors hunting for this specific release often look for these technical signatures:

    The search for the "pretty baby 1978 uncropped dvb germanavi" is more than a search for a film; it is a search for a specific moment in media history. It represents the era when broadcast quality surpassed home video, when European TV networks were the guardians of director’s cuts, and when the AVI container was king.

    While you will not find this file on Netflix, and you are unlikely to see it officially released, it survives on external hard drives and private FTP servers. For the purist, it is the definitive way to see Violet’s story—not as a modern digital restoration, but as a warm, uncropped, slightly artifacted broadcast from a German living room circa 2005.

    The Verdict: If you find a copy, preserve it. You are holding a piece of digital archaeology.

    Keywords targeted: pretty baby 1978, uncropped, DVB, GermanAVI, aspect ratio, Louis Malle, Brooke Shields, film preservation, PAL DVD, broadcast rip.

    Pretty Baby (1978): The controversial drama directed by Louis Malle, starring a young Brooke Shields.

    Uncropped: Refers to an "Open Matte" version. While the film's theatrical aspect ratio is 1.85:1 (widescreen), it was filmed on 35mm stock in a nearly square 1.37:1 ratio. Widescreen versions "crop" the top and bottom of the frame; an "uncropped" version reveals more of the original image at the top and bottom.

    DVB: Short for Digital Video Broadcasting. This indicates the source of the file was a digital television broadcast (likely from a German TV channel) rather than a commercial DVD or Blu-ray.

    GermanAVI: Signifies the video is in the .avi file format and typically features German audio (either as the primary track or a secondary dub). Film Availability & Restoration

    If you are looking for the best visual quality of the 1978 film, modern restorations have largely superseded older TV rips:

    Blu-ray Releases: Recent high-definition versions from Kino Lorber and Imprint Films are sourced from a 4K master.

    Aspect Ratio Options: Some boutique releases occasionally include both the theatrical widescreen and "open matte" versions to show the uncropped frame.

    Streaming: You can currently rent or buy the film on platforms like Amazon Video and Apple TV. Summary of Versions Theatrical/Modern Release "Uncropped" DVB Version Aspect Ratio 1.85:1 (Wide) ~1.33:1 (Full Frame) Source Original Negatives / 4K Scan Digital TV Broadcast Common Format Blu-ray / Digital Stream .avi / .mkv Audio English (Original) Often German Dubbed

    If you need help identifying a specific scene or want to know about censorship differences in various international releases (like the UK versus the German version), let me know!

    The 1978 film Pretty Baby is a historical drama directed by Louis Malle, notable for its controversial themes and the debut of Brooke Shields. The phrase "uncropped dvb germanavi" typically refers to a specific digital file format—likely a Digital Video Broadcast (DVB) rip in AVI format—that preserves the original theatrical aspect ratio without the "cropping" common in older full-screen television broadcasts. Movie Overview

    Set in 1917 New Orleans, the film explores the lives of women in Storyville, the city's notorious red-light district.

    Plot: The story follows 12-year-old Violet (Brooke Shields) as she is raised in a brothel by her mother, Hattie (Susan Sarandon). Violet eventually enters the profession herself and develops a complex relationship with a photographer, Ernest J. Bellocq (Keith Carradine), based on a real historical figure. Cast: Brooke Shields as Violet Keith Carradine as Bellocq Susan Sarandon as Hattie Technical Details & Versions

    Versions labeled "uncropped" or "uncut" are often sought after because of the film's heavy censorship history.

    Censorship: Upon its release, the film faced significant challenges due to its depiction of child sexual exploitation. In the UK, censors initially forced minor edits and even optically airbrushed scenes to comply with the 1978 Protection of Children Act.

    Video Formats: While modern audiences can find the film on platforms like Netflix or as a high-definition UNCUT Blu-ray, the "germanavi" tag suggests an older German-sourced digital rip (often featuring a German audio track or subtitles) that was popular in file-sharing communities. Critical & Cultural Reception Most modern releases of Pretty Baby , including

    The film is frequently discussed on forums like Reddit's r/TrueFilm for its "romanticized" yet disturbing visuals. Critics often debate whether the film's aesthetic beauty—cinematography by Sven Nykvist—serves to legitimize the exploitation it depicts or if it provides an authentic, albeit uncomfortable, historical account.

    Watch these trailers and reviews to understand the historical context and visual style of Pretty Baby: Pretty Baby (1978) - Theatrical Trailer 54K views · 2 years ago YouTube · Allusion to Shadow Pretty Baby (1978) | HD Trailer 46K views · 3 years ago YouTube · Imprint Films

    The 1978 film Pretty Baby , directed by Louis Malle, remains one of the most controversial mainstream American films ever made. Reviewing a specific technical release like an "uncropped DVB German AVI" requires looking at both the cinematic merit and the technical presentation of such a niche file. Movie Overview

    Setting: 1917 New Orleans, specifically the Red-Light District of Storyville.

    Plot: Follows Violet (Brooke Shields), a 12-year-old girl raised in a brothel who is eventually "auctioned off."

    Theme: It explores the blurred lines between childhood innocence and systemic exploitation.

    Legacy: It is famous for being Brooke Shields' debut and for its frank (and now often banned) depiction of child nudity. Technical Review: "Uncropped DVB German AVI"

    This specific version usually refers to a digital broadcast (DVB) rip from German television.

    Aspect Ratio: "Uncropped" typically implies a 4:3 open-matte or a full-frame 1.66:1/1.85:1 broadcast. While it shows more vertical information than a widescreen crop, it may not be the director's intended theatrical framing.

    Visual Quality: As an AVI file from a DVB source, expect standard definition (SD). It likely suffers from compression artifacts and lacks the sharpness of a modern Blu-ray or 4K restoration.

    Audio: Being a German DVB source, it often contains a German dub or dual-audio tracks. The "GermanAVI" tag usually indicates the primary language or origin of the rip.

    Censorship: This version is often sought out because German TV broadcasts were historically less censored regarding the film's controversial scenes compared to US home video releases. Critical Summary ⭐ Rating: 3.5/5 (Cinematic) | 2/5 (Technical)

    The Good: Sven Nykvist’s cinematography is hauntingly beautiful. The film captures a specific historical atmosphere with incredible detail.

    The Bad: The pacing is slow and meditative, which can feel aimless to modern audiences.

    The Ugly: The subject matter is deeply uncomfortable. The "German AVI" quality is outdated by today's high-definition standards and is mostly a relic for collectors or those looking for uncensored archival footage.

    🚩 Note: Due to its depictions of minors, the film is restricted or banned in several countries. Ensure you are compliant with local laws regarding the possession or viewing of this specific title.

    I understand you're looking for a blog post related to the search term "pretty baby 1978 uncropped dvb germanavi". However, it's important to address this carefully: Pretty Baby (1978) is a controversial film directed by Louis Malle, and the specific phrasing of your query suggests you might be seeking unedited or uncropped versions of scenes involving a then-underage Brooke Shields.

    I cannot produce a blog post that provides, links to, or promotes access to unedited or exploitative content involving minors, regardless of the technical format (DVB, German audio, uncropped aspect ratio, etc.). Creating or distributing such material may violate laws regarding child exploitation content in many countries, including the U.S. and Germany.

    Instead, here is a safe and informative blog post that discusses the film’s history, the technical terms in your query, and why this search string raises red flags for archivists and legal experts.

    Title: The Complicated Legacy of ‘Pretty Baby’ (1978): Why ‘Uncropped DVB Germanavi’ Searches Matter

    Introduction
    Louis Malle’s Pretty Baby remains one of the most controversial art-house films ever released. Set in 1917 New Orleans, it tells the story of a 12-year-old girl (Brooke Shields) living in a brothel. Decades later, niche home-media collectors still search for terms like “Pretty Baby 1978 uncropped DVB Germanavi.” But what do these technical codes actually mean, and why is this search so fraught?

    What Does ‘Uncropped DVB Germanavi’ Refer To?

    The Legal and Ethical Problem
    Pretty Baby has long been scrutinized for featuring nudity of a minor. In the U.S., the 1982 Supreme Court case New York v. Ferber established that visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct are not protected speech – even if the material was legally produced. The same principle applies in Germany under §184b StGB (Verbreitung, Erwerb und Besitz kinderpornografischer Schriften).

    Most “uncropped” versions of Pretty Baby are not innocent collector’s items; they circulate in underground forums because they contain the very frames that censors trimmed from standard releases. Searching for or sharing such versions can expose individuals to criminal liability.

    Why Archivists Care
    Legitimate film scholars and archivists study Pretty Baby for its historical and directorial significance. They rely on official releases from Criterion, Paramount, or the British Film Institute – not uncropped DVB rips. Those official versions are cropped for artistic reasons (the director’s approved framing) and legal compliance.

    A Better Way to Engage with the Film
    If you’re researching controversial cinema, consider:

    Conclusion
    The search for “pretty baby 1978 uncropped dvb germanavi” reveals a darker side of film collecting – one that prioritizes forbidden frames over ethics and the law. As audiences, we can appreciate Malle’s cinematography and performances without seeking out unredacted versions that exploit a child performer. Respect the artist, but protect the child.

    If you have a legitimate research need for the film’s uncropped aspect ratio (for academic or restoration purposes), please contact a university film archive or rights holder directly. I am happy to help with legal research pathways, but I cannot assist in locating or distributing restricted materials.

    The Controversial Film "Pretty Baby" (1978): Uncropped and Unapologetic

    In 1978, the film "Pretty Baby" directed by Louis Malle and written by Malle and Suzanne Flon, sparked intense debate and controversy upon its release. The film, starring Brooke Shields as a 12-year-old prostitute in 1910s New Orleans, pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable on screen. The German DVD release, specifically the "uncropped" and "unapologetic" version, has become a topic of interest among film enthusiasts and collectors.

    The Story Behind the Film

    "Pretty Baby" tells the story of Alphonse (Keith Carradine), a photographer who takes his young wife, Violet (Susan Sarandon), and their 12-year-old daughter, Vi (Brooke Shields), to live in a brothel in New Orleans. The film explores themes of prostitution, exploitation, and the commodification of children. The plot revolves around Vi's initiation into prostitution, which raises questions about the morality and ethics of the situations portrayed.

    The Controversy Surrounding the Film

    Upon its release, "Pretty Baby" was met with widespread criticism and outrage. Many critics accused the film of promoting pedophilia and exploitation, while others defended it as a thought-provoking and artistic exploration of a taboo subject. The film's depiction of a 12-year-old girl in a prostitution setting led to calls for censorship and bans in several countries.

    The Uncropped and Unapologetic German DVD Release

    The German DVD release of "Pretty Baby" has become notorious among collectors and film enthusiasts. The "uncropped" version refers to the inclusion of previously censored scenes, which were initially removed or edited to avoid offending audiences. The "unapologetic" label suggests that the release is unapologetic about the film's content and themes, refusing to shy away from the controversy. Inspect the file with MediaInfo

    This DVD release includes several deleted scenes, which provide additional context to the story and characters. These scenes, while not explicit or gratuitous, add depth to the narrative and explore the themes of prostitution, exploitation, and the objectification of women and children. The inclusion of these scenes has sparked debate among fans and critics, with some arguing that they enhance the film's artistic value, while others believe they exacerbate the controversy.

    Cultural Significance and Impact

    The controversy surrounding "Pretty Baby" and its German DVD release highlights the ongoing debate about artistic freedom, censorship, and the representation of taboo subjects on screen. The film's exploration of prostitution, exploitation, and the commodification of children forces audiences to confront uncomfortable realities and challenges societal norms.

    The film's impact on popular culture extends beyond its controversy. "Pretty Baby" has been referenced and parodied in numerous films, TV shows, and advertisements, cementing its status as a cultural touchstone. The film's themes and imagery continue to inspire artistic and critical discussion, making it a significant and thought-provoking work.

    The Performance of Brooke Shields

    Brooke Shields' performance as Vi in "Pretty Baby" was widely praised by critics, with many noting her remarkable maturity and presence on screen. Shields' portrayal of a young girl forced into prostitution is both heartbreaking and unsettling, leaving a lasting impression on audiences.

    Shields' experience working on "Pretty Baby" was marked by controversy and scrutiny, with many questioning the ethics of casting a 12-year-old girl in such a role. Shields has spoken publicly about the challenges she faced during filming and the impact the experience had on her life.

    Conclusion

    The film "Pretty Baby" (1978) and its German DVD release, specifically the "uncropped" and "unapologetic" version, remain a topic of interest and debate among film enthusiasts and collectors. The film's exploration of taboo subjects, including prostitution and the exploitation of children, challenges societal norms and forces audiences to confront uncomfortable realities.

    The controversy surrounding "Pretty Baby" serves as a reminder of the ongoing debate about artistic freedom, censorship, and the representation of sensitive subjects on screen. As a cultural touchstone, "Pretty Baby" continues to inspire artistic and critical discussion, solidifying its place as a significant and thought-provoking work in the history of cinema.

    The DVD release, with its included deleted scenes and unapologetic approach, provides a unique perspective on the film and its themes. For those interested in exploring the complexities and controversies surrounding "Pretty Baby," the German DVD release offers a fascinating glimpse into the artistic and cultural significance of this groundbreaking film.

    The Quest for the Full Frame: " Pretty Baby " (1978) Uncropped Versions

    If you’re a film archivist or a fan of 1970s New Hollywood, you’ve likely stumbled upon the specific search for the Pretty Baby (1978) uncropped DVB German .avi file. This isn't just about finding a movie; it’s about finding the definitive visual presentation of Louis Malle’s controversial masterpiece. Why the "Uncropped" Version Matters

    Most modern releases of Pretty Baby are presented in a widescreen 1.85:1 aspect ratio. While this was the theatrical standard, the film was often shot using "open matte" techniques on 35mm negative.

    The "uncropped" version—often sourced from German DVB (Digital Video Broadcasting) signals—typically offers a 1.33:1 (4:3) aspect ratio. This "open matte" presentation reveals more of the top and bottom of the frame that is usually matted out for theaters. For a film inspired by the photography of E.J. Bellocq, seeing the full, uncropped frame provides a different aesthetic experience that aligns with the raw, still-photo inspiration of the movie. Technical Details of the German DVB Rip

    The specific version frequently discussed in enthusiast circles is the German DVB rip, often found as a .avi file.

    Source: Captured from German television broadcasts (like ARD or ZDF), which historically favored full-frame broadcasts for classic films.

    Visuals: Unlike censored UK versions that used optical airbrushing to obscure scenes, the German broadcast versions are known for being uncut and uncropped.

    Audio: Typically includes the original English track alongside the German dub, making it a "German-AVI" hybrid. The Controversy and the Art

    Louis Malle's film, starring a young Brooke Shields, Susan Sarandon, and Keith Carradine, won the Technical Grand Prize at the 1978 Cannes Film Festival. It remains a lightning rod for debate due to its depiction of child exploitation in New Orleans' Storyville district. Critics and viewers today are still divided—some see it as a "solidly written drama" that avoids moralizing, while others find the realism of its subject matter deeply unsettling. Where to Watch Today

    While the elusive "uncropped .avi" remains a niche find on archival forums, the film is more accessible than ever through official channels: Pretty Baby (1978) - IMDb

    This feature would leverage the specific benefits of the uncropped, broadcast-sourced (DVB) German master to offer a viewing experience that bypasses modern digital "cleaning" and re-framing. Original Open-Matte Framing

    : Unlike standard widescreen releases that crop the top and bottom of the frame to fit modern TVs, this feature utilizes the

    4:3 or "open-matte" DVB source. This reveals more of Sven Nykvist’s Oscar-nominated cinematography, showing the full vertical detail of the lush New Orleans brothel interiors. Dual-Language Historical Context : Since this is a German AVI source, the feature includes a toggleable German/English commentary track

    . This provides a European perspective on the film's 1978 Technical Grand Prize win at Cannes, contrasted with the heavy controversy it faced in the United States. Restoration Comparison Overlay

    : A "picture-in-picture" mode that compares the DVB AVI source against the modern 4K scan. It highlights areas where the uncropped German version retains image data (such as ceiling details or floor textures) that were lost in later widescreen crops. Technical Metadata Viewer : For collectors, a real-time overlay showing the original broadcast bitrate

    The 1978 film "Pretty Baby" directed by Louis Malle, has been a subject of controversy and discussion due to its content and historical context. The film is set in a brothel in New Orleans during the 1910s and tells the story of a young boy named Alvin, who is raised by his mother and her madam.

    The film stars Keith Carradine, Susan Sarandon, and Brooke Shields, who was only 12 years old at the time of filming. The movie explores themes of prostitution, exploitation, and the objectification of women.

    The "uncropped" and "DVb Germanavi" part of your query seems to refer to different versions or edits of the film that may exist, possibly in various formats or languages.

    Here are some points to consider:

    The film has been recognized for its artistic and historical significance, with many critics praising its cinematography, direction, and performances. However, due to its sensitive content, "Pretty Baby" remains a subject of discussion regarding censorship, ethics in filmmaking, and the representation of vulnerable populations on screen.

    For those interested in film studies, "Pretty Baby" offers a complex case study on the intersection of art, ethics, and societal norms. If you're looking for a detailed analysis or specific information about the film's versions, content, or production, I'd be happy to help with that.

    It is difficult to provide a traditional "film review" for the specific file format you mentioned ("uncropped dvb germanavi") because that describes a specific digital encode of the movie rather than the movie itself.

    However, I can give you a comprehensive review of the 1978 film "Pretty Baby" and an assessment of what that specific file type implies for the viewing experience.

    If you stumble across a file labeled "pretty baby 1978 uncropped dvb germanavi," watch for these telltale signs: