Explore the Thrills of Season Three in 'Chewing Gum'
Review of the Series "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!": Season Three – The Coming of Age of an Era and Its Heroes
The beloved series "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" has charmed audiences from its very first episodes and now returns with its highly anticipated third season. Premiering on May 4, 2023, on the online platform Premier, viewers are once again invited to immerse themselves in the nostalgia of the 1990s, witnessing how the characters have evolved over time. If you find yourself yearning for that era or simply appreciate quality drama intertwined with social commentary, this season is definitely worth your attention.
The Journey to Adulthood: New Facets of the Characters
A pivotal theme in this new season revolves around growing up. The main characters – Sanya, Zhenya, Vovka, and Ilyusha – have matured, stepping away from the schoolyard into the complexities of adult life, which is undeniably more challenging and less predictable. Their names now resonate as mature identities rather than the endearing nicknames of childhood, marking their transition into a new phase of existence.
- Some have found family – the main characters navigate familial roles, grappling with the everyday challenges of life.
- Some are working in a music stall – a vivid nod to the cultural flair of the time, with cassettes of The Prodigy blaring from tape decks.
- Some have taken up sports – representing youth seeking their identity in a world that is rapidly shifting.
Yet, the characters still seem to be wrestling with their emerging adulthood. This state of uncertainty, caught between residual childhood innocence and burgeoning responsibilities, forms a crucial emotional thread throughout the series.
The 90s Era: A Political and Social Backdrop
Set in the year 1996, this period stands as a significant time in Russian history. Presidential elections with the slogan "Vote or Lose", economic upheaval, and a rise in crime form the backdrop for the plot. However, the show refrains from overt political commentary, instead using historical events as a rich atmospheric foundation.
Rather than descending into a grim chronicle, typical of many 90s-era narratives, "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" strikes a balance. It is not merely a crime drama; it is a heartfelt tale of friendship, love, and the quest for self-identity. Politics serves as a catalyst, injecting tension into the narrative, but the focus remains on the lives of ordinary people.
Criminal Intrigues: Suspense Without Gloom
One of the season's notable storylines revolves around attempts to transform Tula into a drug trade capital. This criminal plot injects dynamism and drama into the series, yet it manages to sidestep gratuitous violence or dreary depictions of crime. Instead, the emphasis is placed on the psychological depth, the characters' relationships, and their commitment to maintaining friendships through challenging times.
The creators illustrate that even amidst a polarized epoch, where good and evil often coexist, themes of friendship, mutual aid, and love endure. This honest and unpretentious portrayal has resonated with audiences, bringing a touch of authenticity to the narrative.
Harmony of Generations: Parents and Children
The exploration of generational relationships serves as another significant layer to the series. However, unlike the classic conflicts seen in Turgenev's works, here, parents and children are united by shared hardships and emotions. Each generation confronts its own challenges yet discovers pathways to dialogue and understanding.
Moments of interaction among the characters blend elements of sorrow, humor, and philosophical insight. A particular scene featuring a conversation between a grandmother and her granddaughter about bananas not only evokes memories of scarcity but also highlights how metaphorically people have perceived their realities.
A Sincere Romanticization of the 90s
"World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" has gained popularity owing to its honest portrayal of the 90s. In contrast to many other depictions of the time, this series opts for a nuanced portrayal rather than black-and-white scenarios. In one frame, a hooligan purchases a cassette of "Agatha Christie", while in another, he engages in dialogue with criminal elements. This duality and unpredictability of the era are rendered with both respect and nostalgia.
Who Is This Season For?
The continuation of the series will undeniably delight long-time followers of the earlier seasons. However, newcomers unfamiliar with the storyline will also find something relatable. Themes of growing up, self-discovery, and battling life's challenges resonate universally.
The plot has evolved alongside the characters. This is no longer just a tale about adolescents but rather a more mature drama that can captivate a fresh audience. Moreover, the online format on Premier enhances the show's accessibility, further bolstering its popularity.
Ending
"World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" transcends being a mere series about the 90s; it is a poignant tale about people, their struggles, dreams, and confrontations with life's trials. The third season continues the traditions set by its predecessors while adding vibrant strokes to a familiar canvas. For those who cherish sincere and profound cinema, this project is unmissable.