Exploring Season Three of "Peace! Friendship! Gum!"

Rating: 8 out of 10
Release Date: May 4, 2023
Director: Anton Fyodorov
Cast: Yegor Gubarev, Yuri Borisov, Valentina Lyapina, Fyodor Roshchin, Evgeny Tkachuk, Viktor Sukhorukov, and others.

The Summer of ‘96: What’s New?

Bringing viewers back to the vibrant world of 1996, the third season of "Peace! Friendship! Gum!" continues to follow our beloved central characters, now older and wiser. The events unfold in the city of Tula, capturing the story two years after the dramatic experiences of the second season. As these former teenagers step into adulthood, they grapple with the trials and tribulations of life: familial obligations, dubious adventures, and even incarceration—each intertwining with their relentless quest for survival and happiness.

Key Plotlines:

• Sanyka (Yegor Gubarev): Having graduated from school, he embarks on his adult life, working at a market while navigating a budding romance with a new girlfriend.
• Vovka and Malaya (Yegor Abramov, Polina Gukhman): As new parents, they face the challenges of family life, with the young father resorting to risky schemes to provide for their household.
• Ilya (Fyodor Roshchin): Now passionate about sports and body weights, Ilya adds a streak of absurdity to his character.
• Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina): Returning to town with her fiancé, she stirs a mix of surprise and jealousy among pals.
• Sanyka’s Mother: Faced with incarceration due to financial schemes, her husband struggles to keep the family afloat.

Additionally, the criminal underbelly of the city plays a significant role. Without holding back, the creators depict Tula as a backdrop, where the previous seasons' lack of gritty characters is rectified by introducing fresh faces. Surprisingly, previously assumed dead characters, Alik and Vitek, reappear, providing a more credible rationale for their return.

Strengths of the Season

Atmosphere and Music

Much like its predecessors, music takes center stage in crafting the season's ambience. The soundtrack not only features 90s hits but also includes original compositions tailored for the series. One standout is the album "Morskaya" from the band "Mumiy Troll," which, though released here before its actual debut, symbolizes the uplifting spirit of the era. Musical interludes underscore critical scenes, enhancing their emotional weight and resonance.

Attention to Detail

The visual artistry and script skillfully recreate the essence of the 90s. Every frame dives into the decade’s experience, highlighting market stalls, fashion trends, and everyday dilemmas. Personal and societal elements blend seamlessly, crafting a holistic portrayal of life during those formative years.

Characters We Can’t Let Go Of

The journey of the characters in this third season is replete with poignant developments. The creators adeptly strike a balance between comedy and drama, illustrating how youthful carefree attitudes clash with the sometimes harsh realities of maturation. Particularly commendable is the acting, especially from Yegor Gubarev and Yuri Borisov, who impart depth and authenticity to their roles.

Weaknesses and Controversial Elements

Some viewers might feel that the season begins at a rather languid pace. While gradual story progression often amplifies tension, in this instance, it may run the risk of losing the attention of those yearning for an immediate plunge into action.

The revival of certain characters previously thought lost, while it fits into the narrative, can occasionally be perceived as a contrived plot device to restore balance rather than an organic continuation of the story.

Overall Evaluation

The third season of "Peace! Friendship! Gum!" continues to enchant with its authenticity and emotional depth. The creators successfully delve into important themes of growing up, familial bonds, and friendship, all the while remembering that their project is fundamentally a human story. Despite its moments of contention, the new season deserves attention for its quality direction, exceptional cast, and the ability to evoke nostalgia for a bygone era.

Recommended Viewing for anyone who appreciates depth and sincerity, paired with a vibrant 90s atmosphere.