Exploring the Depths of Season Three of Chewing Gum
Review of the Third Season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!": "How Little Lived, How Much Experienced"
Rating: 8 out of 10
Release Date: May 4, 2023
Director: Anton Fyodorov
Cast: Egor Gubarev, Yuri Borisov, Valentina Lyapina, Fedor Roshchin, Evgeny Tkauchuk, Viktor Sukhorukov, and others.
Summer of 1996: What’s New?
The third season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" takes viewers back to the summer of 1996, skillfully evolving its main characters who are no longer the carefree adolescents they once were. Set in the historic city of Tula, this season explores the significant transformations that have occurred over the two years since the conclusion of the second season. Our beloved characters, once naive teens, are now grappling with the complexities of adulthood, facing family obligations, shadowy ventures, and even prison time—all while navigating their eternal quest for happiness and survival.
Core Plot Lines:
- Sanyka (Egor Gubarev): Recently graduated from high school, he embarks on the arduous journey of adulthood, taking a job at the local market while attempting to foster a new romantic relationship.
- Vovka and Malaya (Egor Abramov, Polina Gukhman): They step into parenthood, with the young father desperately seeking ways to provide for his growing family, often leading him into precarious schemes.
- Ilya (Fedor Roshchin): Passionate about sports and weightlifting, his newfound hobbies introduce a slew of comedic moments to his character arc.
- Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina): Returning to Tula with her fiancé, she stirs feelings of astonishment and jealousy among her friends as they navigate the complexities of their relationships.
- Sanyka's Mother: Facing incarceration due to her involvement in shady dealings, her husband clings to hope for their family’s redemption.
Simultaneously, a gritty criminal storyline unfolds in the city. The creators boldly set their narrative in Tula, tackling the decrease in "criminal personnel" from previous seasons by introducing new characters. Moreover, previously assumed-dead figures, Alik and Vitya, make surprising comebacks supported by more believable explanations.
Strengths of the Season
Atmosphere and Music
The essence of this season is undeniably intertwined with its evocative music, which plays a pivotal role in shaping the viewing experience. The soundtrack not only boasts popular hits from the '90s but also features bespoke compositions crafted specifically for the show. The album "Sea" by the renowned band Mumiy Troll, while appearing here ahead of its actual release, becomes a cherished emblem of this fresh epoch. Musical interludes enhance critical scenes, amplifying their emotional weight and making them more vivid.
Attention to Detail
Every aspect of the visual presentation and script has been meticulously designed to authentically recreate the 1990s. Each frame serves as a portal to the past, showcasing everything from bustling market stalls to prevailing fashion trends and everyday dilemmas. The intertwining of personal lives and societal issues builds a robust tapestry of the era's life.
Characters That Are Hard to Part With
The journeys of the characters in the third season are rich with events that resonate deeply. The writers deftly juxtapose comedy with drama, illustrating how the carefree spirit of youth clashes with the harsh realities of growing up. The performances, especially by Egor Gubarev and Yuri Borisov, impressively infuse depth and sincerity into their roles.
Weaknesses and Controversial Moments
Some viewers might find the season’s opening a touch sluggish. While the gradual crescendo of events typically enhances tension, in this instance, it risks exhausting those eager for a swift plunge into action.
The revival of certain characters previously deemed "deceased" might appear logical at times, yet it can also feel like a narrative maneuver to restore balance rather than an organic evolution of the storyline.
Overall Impression
The third season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" continues to captivate with its authenticity and emotional depth. The creators effectively address significant themes of maturation, family dynamics, and friendship while never losing sight of the fact that at its core, this series is fundamentally about people. Despite its debated moments, this new season certainly merits attention due to its exceptional direction, a stellar cast, and its skillful ability to evoke a nostalgia for a bygone era.