Exploring the Complexities of Season Three of 'Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!'

Rating: 8 out of 10
Release Date: May 4, 2023
Director: Anton Fyodorov
Cast: Egor Gubarev, Yuri Borisov, Valentina Lyapina, Fedor Roshchin, Yevgeny Tkachek, Viktor Sukhorukov, among others.

A Journey Back to Summer 1996: What’s New?

The third season of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" whisks viewers back to the year 1996, preserving the beloved central characters while bestowing upon them the wisdom and experiences that come with age. Set in the city of Tula, significant changes have transpired in the lives of the protagonists since the events of the previous season, just two years prior. Now, those once carefree teenagers must navigate the turbulent waters of adulthood: familial obligations, shady ventures, and even prison—each spiral intertwining with the timeless quest for survival and happiness.

Key Plotlines:

• Sanka (Egor Gubarev): Ventures into adulthood after completing school, embarking on a new path by working at the market while exploring a budding relationship with a new girlfriend.
• Volka and Malaya (Egor Abramov, Polina Gukhman): Step into parenthood, with the young father hunting for ways to provide for his family, often entangled in precarious schemes.
• Ilya (Fedor Roshchin): Blossoms into his passion for sports and weightlifting, adding a humorous twist to his character arc.
• Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina): Returns to town with her fiancé, instigating waves of surprise and jealousy among her old friends.
• Sanka's Mother: Ends up behind bars due to her fraudulent dealings, leaving her husband grasping for solutions to mend the fraying strings of their family.

Simultaneously, the city’s criminal subplot thickens, with the creators unashamedly situating Tula as the backdrop. In response to the notable cutback on the portrayal of "criminal figures" in earlier seasons, new characters emerge in the narrative, breathing life into the storyline. Additionally, formerly presumed deceased characters, Alik and Vitek, make a return with a more plausible explanation for their survival.

Strengths of the Season

Atmosphere and Soundtrack

True to form, the soundtrack plays a pivotal role in crafting the immersive atmosphere of the show. It features classic hits from the 90s alongside tunes specifically penned for the series. Notably, the album "Morskaya" by the band "Mumiy Troll," although released here ahead of its actual launch, epitomizes the fresh breath of the era. The musical interludes significantly enhance key scenes, elevating their emotional weight.

Attention to Detail

The visual design and script meticulously recreate the essence of the 90s. Each frame serves as a portal back in time: from street vendors to fashion trends and domestic dilemmas. The intertwining of personal and societal issues provides a holistic glimpse into the lives and challenges facing that generation.

Endearing Characters

The journey of the characters in this third season is brimming with unforgettable moments. The writers deftly navigate the delicate equilibrium between humor and drama, illustrating how youthful carefree attitudes clash with the stark realities of growing up. The performances are striking, especially by Egor Gubarev and Yuri Borisov, who breathe depth and sincerity into their roles.

Drawbacks and Controversial Points

Some viewers might find the beginning of the season a bit drawn out. The gradual unfolding of events tends to build suspense; however, it risks losing the interest of those yearning for swift action right from the start.

The return of certain characters presumed "dead," while seemingly logical, can occasionally come off as a narrative maneuver aimed at restoring equilibrium rather than feeling like an organic part of the story.

Overall Assessment

The third season of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" continues to impress with its authenticity and emotional depth. The creative team skillfully tackles significant themes of maturation, family connections, and friendship while keeping in mind that their project primarily revolves around human experiences. Despite some contentious moments, the new season deserves attention due to its robust direction, talented cast, and ability to evoke nostalgia for a bygone era.

Highly recommended for anyone who values depth and sincerity, intertwined with the vibrant ambiance of the 90s.