Exploring the Depths of Season Three of 'World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!'
Review of Season Three of the Series "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!": "So Little Lived, So Much Experienced"
Rating: 8 out of 10
Release Date: May 4, 2023
Director: Anton Fyodorov
Cast: Egor Gubarev, Yuri Borisov, Valentina Lyapina, Fyodor Roshchin, Evgeny Tkachuk, Viktor Sukhorukov, and others.
Summer 1996: What’s New?
The third season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" catapults viewers back to 1996, retaining the main characters but allowing them to age and mature alongside the audience. Set against the backdrop of Tula, the narrative unfolds two years after the events of the previous season, introducing significant changes. Our once-teenage heroes are now grappling with the complexities of adult life: family obligations, shady escapades, and, for some, jail time—all while navigating the unending struggle for survival and contentment.
Key Plot Lines:
- Sanka (Egor Gubarev): Having finished school, he endeavors to kickstart his adult life through work at a local market and begins to forge a new romantic connection.
- Vovka and Malaya (Egor Abramov, Polina Gukhman): They embrace the challenges of parenthood, with the young father seeking perilous ways to provide for his family.
- Ilya (Fyodor Roshchin): His newfound passion for sports and weights adds a humorous twist to his character, further enhancing his quirks.
- Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina): She returns to Tula with her fiancé, stirring a mix of astonishment and envy among her circle of friends.
- Sanka’s Mother: Now behind bars for financial misconduct, her husband grapples with the familial fallout.
Simultaneously, a seedy criminal storyline begins to take shape in the city. The writers do not shy away from explicitly naming Tula as their setting. Following a shortage of "criminal characters" in the earlier seasons, new figures are introduced, and supposedly deceased characters, Alik and Vitek, return with a more believable backstory.
Strengths of the Season
Atmosphere and Music
Music continues to hold a pivotal role in establishing the show’s ambiance. The soundtrack features both popular hits from the 90s and original tracks crafted specifically for the series. One notable release, the "Sea" album by the band "Mumiy Troll," serves as a metaphorical beacon of the era, even though it arrived before its actual launch. The incorporation of these musical interludes enhances key moments, making them resonate more powerfully with viewers.
Attention to Detail
Visually, the show embodies the essence of the 90s, skillfully reconstructing the era down to the last detail. Every single frame offers an immersive dive into the time period, showcasing everything from bustling market stalls to fashionable trends and everyday dilemmas. This blend of personal and societal intricacies paints a vivid tableau of life during that time.
Characters That Are Hard to Part With
The journey of the characters in this season is rich with multifaceted experiences. The creators expertly walk the tightrope between comedy and drama, illustrating how youthful carefree attitudes clash with the harsh realities of growing up. The performances are noteworthy, particularly the portrayals by Egor Gubarev and Yuri Borisov, who breath life and depth into their characters.
Weaknesses and Controversial Aspects
Some viewers might feel that the season’s opening drags on a bit too long. While the gradual build-up could typically create tension, in this instance, it risks alienating those expecting a rapid dive into action.
The revival of certain characters thought to be 'dead' may come across as a narrative gimmick to restore equilibrium, potentially detracting from the story's organic flow.
Overall Evaluation
The third season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" continues to enchant with its authenticity and emotional depth. The writers effectively tackle impactful themes of maturation, family dynamics, and friendship, all while emphasizing that their project is primarily a narrative about people. Despite a few controversial elements, the latest season is well worth a watch due to its adept direction, strong cast performances, and the ability to evoke nostalgia for a bygone era.