Exploring Season Three of 'World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!'
Rating: 8 out of 10
Release Date: May 4, 2023
Director: Anton Fedorov
Cast: Egor Gubarev, Yuri Borisov, Valentina Lyapina, Fyodor Roshchin, Evgeny Tkachek, Viktor Sukhorukov, among others.
Summer of 1996: What’s New?
The third season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" invites viewers back to the summer of 1996, reintroducing familiar characters who have now aged and matured. Set in the city of Tula, this chapter unfolds two years after the events of the previous season, illustrating significant changes in the characters' lives. Our protagonists, who once navigated the carefree days of adolescence, are now grappling with the complexities of adulthood—family responsibilities, dubious ventures, and the lurking specter of prison—as they continue their timeless struggle for survival and happiness.
Key Storylines:
- Sanya (Egor Gubarev): Having graduated from high school, Sanya attempts to embark on his adult journey, working at a market and trying to develop a relationship with his new girlfriend.
- Vovka and Malaya (Egor Abramov, Polina Gukhman): Now parents, Vovka wrestles with the challenge of providing for his family, resorting to risky schemes to make ends meet.
- Ilya (Fyodor Roshchin): He becomes engrossed in sports and weightlifting, adding a touch of humor to his character's development.
- Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina): She returns to town with her fiancé, stirring surprise and jealousy among her friends.
- Sanya’s Mother: Behind bars for fraud, with her husband desperately seeking ways to keep the family together.
Simultaneously, the series delves into the town's criminal underbelly, as the writers unabashedly showcase Tula as a pivotal backdrop. In a refreshing twist, previously “deceased” characters Alyk and Vitek make a return, now presented with credible explanations that enhance the narrative.
Season Strengths
Atmosphere and Soundtrack
As has always been the case, music plays a crucial role in establishing the show’s atmosphere. The soundtrack is a delightful mix of 90s classics and original compositions crafted for the series. Notably, the album "Morskaya" by the band "Mumiy Troll," despite its fictional early appearance in the show, symbolizes a fresh breeze of the era. Moments of musical interludes highlight essential scenes, amplifying their emotional impact.
Attention to Detail
The visual design and script meticulously recreate the vibe of the 90s, with each frame offering a window into that vibrant decade— from bustling street markets to popular fashion trends and everyday dilemmas. The interplay of personal and public life encapsulates a vivid portrait of that period.
Characters We Can’t Let Go
The journey of the characters in this third season is nothing short of exhilarating. The writers adeptly balance comedy and drama, illustrating the collision of youthful carelessness with the harsh realities of growing up. The performances are commendable, particularly those of Egor Gubarev and Yuri Borisov, whose portrayal lends depth and authenticity to their roles.
Weaknesses and Controversial Points
Some viewers might find the beginning of the season a tad drawn out. While a slow build-up can often heighten tension, in this instance, it risks losing the interest of those anticipating an immediate plunge into action.
The resurrection of certain characters who were presumed dead, although logically explained, occasionally comes off as a narrative device aimed at restoring balance rather than an organic extension of the storyline.
Overall Evaluation
The third season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" successfully captivates with its authenticity and emotional resonance. The creators tackle pressing themes of maturity, family, and friendship without losing sight of their fundamental premise— this is, above all, a series about people. Despite some debatable elements, the new season deserves recognition for its impressive direction, strong cast, and the ability to evoke nostalgia for a bygone era.
Recommended Viewing for anyone who values depth and sincerity intertwined with the vivid ambiance of the 90s.