Exploring the Depths of 'World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!' Season 3

Review of Season Three of the Series "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!": "How Little Lived, How Much Experienced"

Rating: 8 out of 10
Release Date: May 4, 2023
Director: Anton Fyodorov
Cast: Egor Gubarev, Yuri Borisov, Valentina Lyapina, Fedor Roshchin, Eugene Tkachenko, Viktor Sukhorukov, and others.

Summer of 1996: What’s New?

The third season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" whisks audiences back to the sun-soaked summer of 1996. It retains its beloved core characters but gives them the added depth of age and experience. Set in the city of Tula, this season explores the considerable transformations that have taken place since the events of the second season, as our protagonists navigate the complexities of adult life. The once carefree adolescents are now faced with familial responsibilities, questionable schemes, and even prison time, all interwoven with their timeless quest for survival and happiness.

Key Plot Lines:

• Sanyok (Egor Gubarev): Fresh out of school, Sanyok is eager to embark on adult life, taking on market jobs while trying to ignite a budding romance with a new girlfriend.
• Vovka and Malaya (Egor Abramov, Polina Gukhman): They've stepped into parenthood, with the young father scrambling to provide for his new family by dipping his toes into some risky ventures.
• Ilya (Fedor Roshchin): In a comedic twist, Ilya dives into sports and weightlifting, adding a fresh layer of absurdity to his character.
• Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina): Returning to Tula with her fiancé, Zhenya stirs up a mix of astonishment and jealousy among her old friends.
• Sanyok’s Mother: Facing prison time due to fraudulent activities, her husband clings to hope for the family's salvation.

Meanwhile, a criminal subplot unfolds, with the creators not shying away from pinpointing Tula as the buzzing backdrop. Following a sharp decline in crime-related characters in previous seasons, new figures sneak into the narrative. Additionally, beloved characters previously thought dead, namely Alik and Vityok, make a reappearance, this time with a more plausible twist on their fates.

Strengths of the Season

Atmosphere and Music

As is the hallmark of the series, music plays an integral role in crafting a rich and evocative atmosphere. The soundtrack features a delightful blend of '90s hits alongside original compositions made specifically for the show. The inclusion of the album Morskaya by the band Mumiy Troll, although it hit the airwaves before its real-life debut, captures the essence of a bygone era. Musical interludes accentuate poignant moments, rendering them even more impactful.

Attention to Detail

The visual aesthetics and storytelling thoughtfully recreate the essence of the 1990s. Each frame offers a time capsule of the era, complete with bustling market stalls, trendy fashions, and everyday dilemmas. The intersection of personal and societal issues breathes life into a vivid tableau of that time.

Unforgettable Characters

The characters' journeys in this third season are nothing short of enthralling. The storytellers skillfully weave together comedy and drama, highlighting the stark contrast between youthful naivety and the harsh realities of growing up. The performances, particularly by Egor Gubarev and Yuri Borisov, resonate deeply, lending their roles authenticity and emotional weight.

Drawbacks and Controversial Moments

Some viewers might find the season’s beginning a bit sluggish. While a slow build can often heighten tension, in this instance, it runs the risk of losing the attention of audiences who crave an immediate plunge into action.

The return of certain characters who were previously presumed dead, though well-explained, may come off as a narrative convenience rather than an organic continuation of the tale.

Overall Assessment

Season three of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" continues to captivate with its authenticity and emotional richness. The creators adeptly tackle significant themes of growing up, family bonds, and friendship, all while remembering that their project ultimately revolves around the human experience. Despite some contentious points, the latest season deserves recognition for its commendable direction, strong ensemble cast, and the ability to evoke nostalgia for the past.

Recommended for viewing to anyone who cherishes depth and sincerity enveloped in the vibrant atmosphere of the 1990s.