Captivating Journey in World! Friendship! Chewing Gum! Season 3

Review of the Third Season 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 Fedorov
Cast: Egor Gubarev, Yuri Borisov, Valentina Lyapina, Fyodor Roshchin, Evgeny Tkachuk, Viktor Sukhorukov, and others.

A Summer Scene in 1996: What’s New?

The third season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" transports viewers back to the summer of 1996. While preserving the essence of its central characters, the show acknowledges the passage of time, aging its protagonists into seasoned adults. Set in Tula, the narrative explores significant changes that have transpired in the two years following the events of the previous season. The story follows the now-adolescent characters as they grapple with the challenges of adulthood: familial responsibilities, dubious schemes, and incarceration—all intertwined with their relentless quest for survival and happiness.

Key Story Arcs:

• Sanya (Egor Gubarev): Having graduated from high school, he embarks on his adult life, finding a job at the market and trying to build a relationship with a new girlfriend.
• Vovka and Malaya (Egor Abramov, Polina Gukhman): They embrace parenthood, but as a new father, Vovka finds himself caught up in risky endeavors to provide for his family.
• Ilya (Fyodor Roshchin): Captivated by sports and weightlifting, Ilya adds an amusing twist to his character's journey.
• Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina): She returns to Tula with her fiancé, sparking surprise and jealousy among her friends.
• Sanya’s Mother: She lands in prison due to fraudulent activities, while her husband clings to hopes of family restoration.

Meanwhile, a crime storyline unfolds within the city. The creators, unreserved in their approach, explicitly establish Tula as the setting for the series. Given the previous season's notable reduction in "criminal characters," new figures enter the mix. Additionally, previously thought-to-be deceased characters, Alik and Vityok, make unexpected returns with explanations that feel more credible.

Season Highlights

Atmosphere and Music

As in its prior seasons, music plays a pivotal role in enhancing the overall ambiance. The soundtrack showcases not only the iconic hits of the 90s but also original compositions crafted specifically for the series. The album "Morskaya" by the band "Mumiy Troll," though released after the show’s timeline, emerges as a poignant emblem of a revitalized cultural era. These musical interludes amplify crucial scenes, enriching the viewing experience.

Attention to Detail

The visual design and script diligently recreate the essence of the 90s. Each scene serves as a portal to that decade, showcasing market stalls, fashion trends, and everyday challenges. Personal and societal issues intertwine, painting a comprehensive portrait of life during that time.

Endearing Characters

The journey of the characters in this third season is nothing short of eventful. The creators skillfully juggle humor and drama, capturing the clash between youthful carefree spirits and the harsh realities of growing up. The performances are striking, particularly those of Egor Gubarev and Yuri Borisov, who imbue their characters with depth and sincerity.

Drawbacks and Controversial Elements

Some viewers might find the pacing of the season's opening a touch sluggish. While a slow build often heightens anticipation, it risks alienating those eager for an immediate adrenaline rush.

The return of characters previously presumed dead can feel either like a well-considered narrative twist or merely a calculated move to regain narrative balance, potentially undermining the story's organic flow.

Overall Assessment

The third season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" continues to captivate with its authenticity and emotional richness. The creators adeptly explore fundamental themes of growing up, family, and friendship, while ensuring that at its heart, the series remains a human story. Despite its contentious moments, the new season merits attention for its exemplary direction, stellar acting ensemble, and ability to incite nostalgia for a bygone era.

Recommended for viewing by all who appreciate depth and authenticity combined with the vivid atmosphere of the 90s.