In-Depth Review of 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 Fyodorov
Cast: Egor Gubarev, Yuri Borisov, Valentina Lyapina, Fyodor Roshchin, Evgeny Tkatchuk, Viktor Sukhorukov, and others.

Summer of 1996: What’s New?

The third season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" whisks viewers back to the summer of 1996, rejuvenating familiar characters who have matured and become more seasoned. Set in the vibrant city of Tula, the new episodes unfold two years after the dramatic events of the second season, revealing a landscape of significant change. Our beloved protagonists, who were once carefree teenagers, now grapple with the realities of adult life: familial responsibilities, precarious ventures, and the looming threat of prison—all intricately woven into a perpetual struggle for survival and happiness.

Key Plotlines:

• Sanyka (Egor Gubarev): Freshly out of high school, he is on the brink of adulthood, trying to make a living at the market while navigating new romantic entanglements.
• Vovka and Malaya (Egor Abramov, Polina Gukhman): As new parents, the duo is confronted by the challenges that come with raising a child, and Vovka finds himself entangled in dubious schemes to support his family.
• Ilya (Fyodor Roshchin): With an enthusiasm for sports and bodybuilding, Ilya’s character adds layers of comedy and absurdity, much to the viewers' delight.
• Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina): Returning to Tula with her fiancé, Zhenya elicits a mix of surprise and jealousy among her friends, which further complicates the social dynamics.
• Sanyka's Mother: After getting caught up in shady dealings, she is now behind bars, leaving her husband to salvage the family’s future.

Additionally, the city’s criminal underbelly continues to unfold. The writers unabashedly designate Tula as the backdrop for these events. Following a noticeable drop in “criminal elements” in previous seasons, fresh characters are introduced to spice things up. Notably, characters presumed dead, Alik and Vitek, make a comeback, this time with a more believable narrative for their return.

Strengths of the Season

Atmosphere and Music

Music remains integral, enriching the series’ distinctive atmosphere. The soundtrack not only features chartbusters from the 90s but also includes newly composed pieces specifically crafted for the show. The album "Morskaya" by the band "Mumiy Troll," despite its earlier-than-expected appearance in the series, becomes a beacon of the era’s fresh spirit. These musical interludes accentuate crucial scenes, enhancing their emotional impact.

Attention to Detail

Visually, the show meticulously resurrects the essence of the 90s. Every frame immerses the audience in that era, capturing bustling street stalls, style staples, and everyday dilemmas. The intertwining of personal and societal struggles creates a comprehensive portrayal of life at that time.

Characters Who Steal Hearts

The journey of the characters throughout the third season is anything but dull. The creators deftly navigate the realms of comedy and drama, illustrating the sharp contrast between youthful carefree existence and the sobering realities of growing up. Performances, particularly by Egor Gubarev and Yuri Borisov, stand out with profound depth and authenticity, making it hard to part ways with these newly evolved individuals.

Downsides and Controversial Points

Some viewers might find the season's opening a tad sluggish. While a slow-burning plot typically heightens suspense, it risks becoming tedious for those eager for immediate action.

The re-emergence of certain characters, once believed to be lost, might seem less of a natural story development and more of a contrived narrative technique for balance.

Overall Assessment

The third season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" continues to impress with its authenticity and emotional richness. The creators successfully tackle critical themes of adulthood, familial bonds, and camaraderie, all while reminding viewers that this series is fundamentally about people. Despite a few contentious moments, the new season deserves attention for its high-quality direction, a robust ensemble cast, and its magical ability to evoke nostalgia for a bygone era.

Highly Recommended for viewers who appreciate depth and sincerity wrapped in the lively ambiance of the 90s.