In-Depth Review of Season Three of 'World! Friendship! Chewing Gum'
Rating: 8 out of 10
Release Date: May 4, 2023
Director: Anton Fyodorov
Cast: Egor Gubarev, Yuri Borisov, Valentina Lyapina, Fedor Roshchin, Yevgeny Tkachek, Viktor Sukhorukov, and others.
A Look Back to the Summer of 1996: What’s New?
The third season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" transports its audience back to the vibrant year of 1996, retaining key characters yet portraying them as more seasoned adults. Set against the backdrop of Tula, the storyline unfolds two years after the events of the previous season, showcasing how life has transformed significantly for our familiar faces. Once carefree teenagers, they now find themselves grappling with the complexities of adulthood—family commitments, dubious schemes, and the looming specter of prison—all intertwined with their perennial quest for survival and happiness.
Key Plotlines:
- Sanya (Egor Gubarev): Having graduated from high school, he aims to carve out a fresh start by working at a market and embarking on a new romantic relationship.
- Vovka and Maliya (Egor Abramov, Polina Gukhman): They embrace parenthood, with the young father diving into dangerous ventures to provide for his growing family.
- Ilya (Fedor Roshchin): He develops a newfound passion for sports and weightlifting, adding a humorous twist to his character.
- Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina): She returns to the city with a fiancé, stirring feelings of surprise and jealousy among her friends.
- Sanya's Mother: She finds herself behind bars due to questionable dealings, leaving her husband struggling to keep the family together.
Simultaneously, the criminal undertones of the city come to life. The creators aren’t shy about identifying Tula as the story's setting. Following a notable drop in “criminal elements” in prior seasons, new characters are introduced to enrich the narrative. Additionally, supposedly deceased characters, Alik and Vityok, are resurrected with a more plausible explanation.
Strengths of the Season
Atmosphere and Music
As in previous installments, music plays a crucial role in crafting the show's immersive atmosphere. The soundtrack features not only nostalgic 90s hits but also original compositions tailored for the series. Notably, the album "Morskaya" by the band "Mumiy Troll"—despite premiering here before its official release—has become a symbol of the newfound spirit of the era. Musical interludes accentuate critical scenes, heightening their emotional impact.
Attention to Detail
The visual presentation and screenplay meticulously recreate the 1990s. Every frame feels like an invitation to step back in time, showcasing everything from bustling market stalls to fashion trends and everyday struggles. The intertwined personal and societal challenges encapsulate the essence of life back then.
Characters That Are Hard to Say Goodbye To
The journeys of the characters in the third season are filled with rich experiences. The writers deftly navigate between comedy and drama, highlighting the stark confrontation between youthful recklessness and the harsh realities of growing up. The performances shine—especially those of Egor Gubarev and Yuri Borisov, who imbue their characters with remarkable depth and authenticity.
Weaknesses and Controversial Elements
Some viewers might find the season's beginning to be a bit drawn out. While a slow build-up can serve to heighten tension, here it risks alienating those eager for immediate action.
The return of certain characters who were previously thought to be deceased, while it appears to make sense within the plot, is sometimes perceived as a narrative device to restore balance rather than as a natural extension of the story.
Overall Assessment
The third season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" continues to enthrall with its authenticity and emotional richness. The creators successfully address significant themes of maturation, family, and camaraderie, all the while staying true to the essence of their show, which revolves around real human experiences. In spite of some contentious aspects, this new season earns its place as a must-watch due to its skilled direction, strong cast, and the palpable nostalgia it evokes for a bygone decade.
Recommended for viewing to anyone who values depth and emotional sincerity, wrapped in the vibrant atmosphere of the nineties.