Exploring the 90s in Season Three of Chewing Gum
The Russian series "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" made its anticipated return with the third season premiere on May 4, 2023, on the PREMIER platform, and it continues to captivate audiences with its meticulous recreation of the 1990s. This retro drama unfolds as a rich tapestry of coming-of-age themes, a slice of social reality, and romantic entanglements, embodying the myriad challenges, aspirations, and tragedies of that pivotal era. Spanning eight episodes, each clocking in at about 52 minutes, viewers are promised an emotional journey replete with vibrant emotions, tough choices, and inevitable contradictions.
Plotline: Love, Poverty, and the Essence of the 90s
Set against the backdrop of 1996, when Russia was engulfed in economic turmoil and social disarray, the narrative follows Sanyka Ryabin (played by Yegor Gubarev), a character navigating a transformative phase in his life. He is grappling with memories of his first love, Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina), as he seeks solace in the company of a new character, Ksyukha (Alexandra Kromova). The daughter of a former policeman, Ksyukha exudes a spirited personality, heavily influenced by music and passionate about freedom; her presence is both daunting and enticing for Sanyka. Much of his daily life unfolds in a kiosk selling audio cassettes, where he dreams of a brighter future.
Meanwhile, his friend Vovka (Yegor Abramov) wrestles with the pressures of family life, which proves to be challenging even during more stable times. The drama intensifies with the unexpected return of Zhenya, accompanied by her new fiancé, a modern-day suitor (Fedor Fedotov), stirring a tumult of conflicting emotions within the characters.
A Criminal Drama: From Despair to Hope
The series isn’t shy of delving into the gritty aspects of life, featuring gang disputes that have come to define the genre. The return of Sanyka's former friend, Alik (Yura Borisov), who manages to survive but carries a heavy emotional burden, adds layers to the narrative. Alik is free, while his friend Vitek (Nikita Pavlenko) remains imprisoned, highlighting the harsh realities of their environment. The city evolves as new criminal factions establish their own rule, with their leader, an asthmatic named Vasya (Yevgeny Tkachuk), injecting further chaos into the mix.
Determined to embrace redemption, Alik strives to adhere to his principles, albeit the circumstances continually pull him towards his past criminal affiliations. Concurrently, Vovka stands at a crossroads, contemplating whether to remain on the sidelines or dive headfirst into the underworld.
Family Dramas: Prison, Hopes, and Broken Dreams
Sanyka's mother (Ksenia Katalymova) finds herself languishing in pre-trial detention, anticipating a trial that could lead to a decade behind bars. His father, Fyodor (Stepan Devonin), remains a shadow of a man, devoid of the strength to support their family in this tumultuous time. Amid these upheavals, Sanyka strives to find equilibrium between his feelings, duties, and aspirations for a better life.
The Atmosphere of the 1990s: Music, Decor, and Nostalgia
A standout feature of the show is its keen attention to the details emblematic of the 90s. The soundtrack, flaunting hits from that decade in fresh arrangements, helps immerse viewers in the nostalgic ambience. Every nuance, from set designs to costumes, meticulously reconstructs the realities of that era, especially resonating with those who grew up during those times.
Nostalgia plays a crucial role, serving as a bridge between generations. For audiences aged 40 and above, the series evokes memories of youth and the complex yet unforgettable years of their formative lives. The younger talents, such as Yegor Gubarev and Alexandra Kromova, ingeniously channel the spirit of the time, making their characters relatable and vibrant.
Script Strengths and Weaknesses
Despite its enchanting atmosphere, the script occasionally veers into predictability. The writers (including Alexander Belov, Pyotr Vnukov, Sergey Panasenkov, and others) lean on tried-and-true tropes: the reappearance of an old flame, moral dilemmas, and an inner battle with personal demons. Yet, this does not hinder viewers from empathizing with the characters and following their journeys with bated breath.
While the lack of an original plot arc is apparent, it is compensated for by the emotional stakes presented, with the criminal theme adding a sharp edge to the narrative. Fans of series like "Brigada" will likely appreciate these aspects.
The Cast and Direction
The impressive cast deserves commendation as well. Yura Borisov, Yegor Gubarev, Alexandra Kromova, and Yevgeny Tkachuk all contribute significantly to the depth of their roles. Director Anton Fedorov expertly juggles nostalgia, drama, and momentum, crafting a viewing experience that keeps audiences riveted from start to finish.
The End: A Story That Resonates
The third season of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" furthers its examination of adolescence, affection, camaraderie, and societal injustices. Even amidst narrative flaws, the series stands as a vibrant reflection of the era, evoking a whirlwind of emotions in its viewers. This story is both palatable and profoundly affecting, making it a piece that invites repeated viewings.
For those in search of more than just entertainment, the series offers an opportunity to glance back into the past, to reminisce on youthful dreams, and to draw insights about the present.