Exploring the Depths of Season Three of Chewing Gum
Rating: 8 out of 10
Release Date: May 4, 2023
Director: Anton Fyodorov
Cast Members: Yegor Gubarev, Yuri Borisov, Valentina Lyapina, Fyodor Roschin, Yevgeny Tkachuk, Viktor Sukhorukov, among others.
Summer of ’96: What’s New?
The third season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" takes us back to the summer of 1996, carefully preserving the beloved characters while allowing them to grow older and wiser. Set in the city of Tula, significant changes have occurred over the two years since season two ended. The protagonists, once carefree teenagers, now navigate the intricate challenges of adult life, dealing with family obligations, dubious adventures, and the stark reality of incarceration—all intertwined with their relentless quest for survival and happiness.
Key Storylines:
- Sanka (Yegor Gubarev): Fresh out of school, he grapples with the demands of adulthood, working at a market while trying to build a relationship with a new girlfriend.
- Vovka and Malaya (Egor Abramov, Polina Gukhman): Transitioning into parenthood, the young father searches for ways to support his family, often getting entangled in risky schemes.
- Ilya (Fyodor Roschin): Now obsessed with sports and weightlifting, his enthusiastic endeavors lead to comedic escapades, adding a lighthearted touch to the narrative.
- Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina): Returning to town with her fiancé, Zhenya stirs a mix of surprise and jealousy among her friends.
- Sanka's Mother: Facing prison time due to fraudulent schemes, her husband clings to the hope of saving their family from disarray.
Meanwhile, the series doesn’t shy away from the criminal undertones of Tula. With a noticeable reduction of criminal elements in previous seasons, new characters emerge to enliven the plot. Previously presumed dead characters, Alik and Vityok, make a comeback, this time with more plausible explanations for their return.
Strengths of the Season
Atmosphere and Music
As with previous installments, music remains a cornerstone in establishing the show's ambiance. The soundtrack not only encompasses chart-toppers from the ‘90s but also features original compositions crafted specifically for the series. The album "Morskaya" by the band "Mumiy Troll," while released earlier in this universe than in real life, symbolizes a fresh breath of the era. The musical cues amplify pivotal scenes, rendering them more impactful.
Attention to Detail
The visual aesthetics and screenplay meticulously recreate the essence of the 90s. Each shot immerses the viewer into that time period: street markets, fashion trends, and everyday dilemmas come alive. The blend of personal and societal themes forms a cohesive narrative of life back then.
Characters That Are Hard to Let Go
The journey of the characters in this season is rich with experience. The creators expertly balance comedy with drama, illustrating the clash between youthful exuberance and the harsh realities of growing up. The performances are noteworthy, especially from Yegor Gubarev and Yuri Borisov, who bring depth and authenticity to their roles.
Drawbacks and Controversial Aspects
Some viewers might find the season's beginning somewhat sluggish. While a slow build can typically increase tension, here, it risks boring those who were eager for immediate action.
The return of certain characters thought to be dead, though rationally portrayed, might be viewed as a narrative device aimed at restoring balance rather than seamlessly integrating into the story.
Overall Assessment
The third season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" continues to impress with its authenticity and emotional depth. The creators adeptly address significant themes of maturity, family, and friendship, all while reminding viewers that at its core, the series is a human story. Despite some contentious moments, this new season demands attention for its exceptional direction, strong acting ensemble, and its ability to evoke nostalgia for a bygone era.
Recommended for viewing for anyone who appreciates depth and sincerity woven into a vibrant 90s atmosphere.