Exploring the Nostalgia in Season Three of Chewing Gum
Rating: 8 out of 10
Release Date: May 4, 2023
Director: Anton Fyodorov
Cast: Egor Gubarev, Yuri Borisov, Valentina Lyapina, Fyodor Roschin, Evgeny Tkachenko, Viktor Sukhorukov, and others.
A Glimpse into Summer 1996: What's New?
The third season of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" transports its audience to the bustling summer of 1996, skillfully retaining familiar characters while aging them and infusing them with new experiences. Set against the backdrop of Tula, the narrative unfolds two years after the second season, showcasing significant changes in both the characters and their environment. The once carefree teenagers now grapple with the complexities of adult life, balancing family commitments, engaging in questionable schemes, and facing the specter of incarceration—all intertwined with their ongoing quest for survival and happiness.
Key Plotlines:
- Sanka (Egor Gubarev): Having graduated high school, he navigates the challenges of adulthood, taking on work at a market while attempting to cultivate a budding romance.
- Vovka and Malaya (Egor Abramov, Polina Gukhman): As new parents, Vovka seeks innovative—and risky—methods to support his growing family.
- Ilya (Fyodor Roschin): Embracing fitness and weightlifting, Ilya's newfound passion adds hilarity and depth to his character.
- Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina): Making a grand return with her fiancé, Zhenya stirs a frenzy of surprise and jealousy among her friends.
- Sanka's Mother: Now imprisoned due to financial misconduct, her husband clings to hope for the family’s redemption.
In tandem with these personal stories, a crime narrative unfolds within the city. The creators unabashedly position Tula as a pivotal setting, introducing new characters to fill the void left by the diminished presence of "criminal figures" from earlier seasons. Moreover, previously thought dead characters Alyk and Vityok make a surprising return, their reappearance cleverly justified within the storyline.
Strengths of the Season
Atmosphere and Music
As in prior installments, the soundtrack plays a pivotal role in crafting the season’s atmosphere. The musical selection encompasses not just beloved hits from the 90s but also original compositions tailored for the show. The album "Sea" by the band "Mumiy Troll," though technically released later, serves as an anthem to the era's vibrant resurgence. Musical interludes punctuate key scenes, enriching their dramatic impact.
Attention to Detail
The visual presentation and screenplay meticulously resurrect the essence of the 90s. Each frame immerses the audience in the era—street vendors, fashion trends, and everyday dilemmas. The confluence of personal and societal narratives produces a holistic portrayal of life during that transformative time.
Characters Worth Holding Onto
The characters' journeys in this season are laden with challenges and growth. The writers artfully straddle the line between comedy and drama, illustrating the clash between youthful carefree attitudes and the harsh realities of maturation. The performances are particularly noteworthy, with Egor Gubarev and Yuri Borisov delivering portrayals rich with depth and authenticity.
Drawbacks and Controversial Moments
Some viewers might find the season's beginning to be overly drawn-out. The slow unfolding of events, while typically serving to build tension, risks losing the interest of those eager for an immediate dive into action.
The return of former characters, once believed to be deceased, may seem like a narrative crutch to restore balance rather than an organic progression of the story, which can lead to mixed feelings among the audience.
Overall Assessment
Season three of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" continues to captivate with its authenticity and emotional richness. The creators skillfully tackle crucial themes of growth, family, and friendship, all while reminding viewers that, at its core, this series revolves around human experiences. Despite some contentious aspects, this latest season deserves attention for its quality direction, stellar cast, and its ability to evoke nostalgia for a bygone era.