A Deep Dive into Season 3 of 'World! Friendship! Chewing Gum'
Review of Season Three of the Series "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!": "So Little Lived, So Much Experienced"
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, among others.
Summer 1996: What’s New?
The third season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" takes us back to the summer of 1996, reuniting the beloved characters who have noticeably matured and gained life experiences. Set in the town of Tula, the narrative unfolds two years after the conclusion of season two, with significant changes reshaping the environment.
The central protagonists, once carefree teenagers, now face the daunting challenges of adulthood. Themes of family responsibilities, questionable ventures, and even incarceration intermingle with timeless struggles for survival and happiness.
Key Storylines:
- Sanya (Egor Gubarev): Now a high school graduate, he grapples with the shift into adulthood, hustling at the market while navigating a budding relationship with a new girlfriend.
- Vovka and Malaya (Egor Abramov, Polina Gukhman): Step into the roles of parents, with the young father frantically seeking ways to provide for his family, often getting entangled in risky schemes.
- Ilya (Fyodor Roschin): Excited about sports and weightlifting, his new passion adds further comedic moments to the mix.
- Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina): Returns to town accompanied by her fiancé, stirring a whirlwind of surprise and jealousy among her friends.
- Sanya’s Mother: Now behind bars due to fraud, her husband clings to hope of reuniting their family.
In addition, the series weaves in a criminal subplot that places Tula prominently in its narrative. The authors, unreserved, emphasize Tula as a backdrop. The previous seasons observed a rapid decline in "criminal characters," so new faces arise to fill the void. Moreover, the presumed deaths of characters Alik and Vitek are creatively revisited, now with a more plausible backstory.
Strengths of the Season
Atmosphere and Music
True to its roots, music plays a pivotal role in crafting the show’s atmosphere. The soundtrack is a rich tapestry of not only 90s hits but also original compositions tailored for the series. The album "Morskaya" by the band "Mumiy Troll," which appears in the show prior to its actual release, becomes a symbol of a newfound breath in the era. Musical interludes punctuate critical scenes, enhancing their emotional resonance.
Attention to Detail
The visual presentation and script painstakingly recreate the essence of the 90s. Every frame immerses us in the decade, showcasing market stalls, fashion trends, and everyday struggles. The personal intertwines with societal issues, presenting a holistic portrait of life during that time.
Characters We Can’t Let Go Of
The characters’ journeys in this season are filled with dimension and drama. The writers skillfully traverse the boundaries between comedy and tragedy, illustrating the juxtaposition between youthful carefree living and the harsh realities of growing up. The performances, particularly by Egor Gubarev and Yuri Borisov, are commendable for the depth and authenticity they bring to their roles.
Weaknesses and Controversial Moments
Some viewers might find the season's onset sluggish. A deliberate pace often heightens tension, but in this case, it risks alienating those anticipating a rapid plunge into action.
The revival of certain characters previously thought to be dead, while explained logically, can occasionally feel like a contrived plot development implemented to bring back balance, rather than a natural evolution of the story.
Overall Assessment
The third season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" continues to delight with its authenticity and emotional depth. The creators deftly illuminate essential themes surrounding growth, family, and friendship, always bearing in mind that, at its core, this show celebrates human stories. Despite a few contentious elements, the new season merits attention for its quality direction, robust cast, and its remarkable ability to evoke nostalgia for a bygone era.
Recommended for viewing by anyone who appreciates deep narratives interwoven with the vibrant atmosphere characteristic of the 90s.