Exploring 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, Fyodor Roschin, Evgeny Tkachu, Viktor Sukhorukov, and others.
Summer of 1996: What’s New?
The third season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" transports viewers to the summer of 1996, continuing the journey of its central characters as they grow older and more experienced. Set in Tula, the storyline unfolds two years after the events of the previous season, with significant changes having shaped the lives of these individuals. Once carefree teenagers, our protagonists are now stepping into the complex realm of adulthood, facing family responsibilities, questionable escapades, and even incarceration, all while striving to survive and find happiness.
Key Storylines:
- Sanya (Egor Gubarev): Recently graduated from school, he embarks on adult life by working at a market and navigating a new romantic relationship.
- Vovka and Malaya (Egor Abramov, Polina Gukhman): They embrace parenthood as Vovka searches for ways to provide for his family, often getting tangled in risky ventures.
- Ilya (Fyodor Roschin): Now a sports enthusiast, his newfound love for weights adds a humorous twist to his character.
- Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina): Returning to the city with her fiancé, she stirs feelings of surprise and jealousy among her friends.
- Sanya’s Mother: Facing the consequences of her shady dealings, she finds herself behind bars, while her husband hopes to hold the family together.
Concurrently, a criminal undercurrent runs through the city of Tula. The creators have boldly pinpointed Tula as their backdrop, introducing new characters to supplement the previously slim criminal roster of past seasons. Intriguingly, characters presumed dead, Alik and Vityok, make a comeback, reigniting the narrative with plausible explanations for their returns.
Strengths of the Season
Atmosphere and Music
Much like its predecessors, music remains a cornerstone of the series' atmosphere. The soundtrack brilliantly marries iconic 90s hits with tracks uniquely crafted for the show. Notably, the album "Morskaya" by the band "Mumiy Troll" emerges as a symbol of a refreshing shift in this bygone era, despite its real-life release following the season. The musical transitions accentuate crucial scenes, enriching the storytelling.
Attention to Detail
The visual artistry and script expertly encapsulate the essence of the 90s. Each frame immerses the audience in the decade with its market stalls, trending fashions, and everyday challenges. Personal stories intertwine with broader societal issues, painting a comprehensive portrait of life in that era.
Characters We Can't Part With
The character arcs in this third season are filled with noteworthy developments. The writers deftly walk the tightrope between humor and sobering reality, illustrating the clash between youthful carefreeness and the harsher truths of maturity. The performances are striking, with special mentions for Egor Gubarev and Yuri Borisov, whose portrayals provide their characters with depth and sincerity.
Drawbacks and Controversial Moments
Some viewers may find the season's opening episodes to be a tad drawn out. While a slower narrative often builds suspense, it risks frustrating those who anticipated a swift dive into action and drama.
The return of certain characters believed to be lost can occasionally resonate as a contrived narrative device meant to rebalance the story instead of an integral part of character development.
Overall Assessment
The third season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" continues to impress with its authenticity and emotional resonance. The creators skillfully address vital themes of adulthood, family, and camaraderie, all the while reminding us that this series fundamentally revolves around the human experience. Despite some contentious elements, the latest season is worth watching, thanks to its proficient direction, solid cast, and a talent for evoking nostalgia for a bygone era.
Recommended for viewing by anyone who appreciates depth and sincerity interlaced with the vibrant atmosphere of the 90s.