Review of Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum! Season 3
The much-anticipated third season of the Russian series "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!", which premiered on May 4, 2023, on the PREMIER platform, continues to captivate viewers with its rich portrayal of the 1990s era. This retro drama serves as not just a tale of coming-of-age, but also a poignant socio-cultural reflection and romantic saga that encapsulates the trials, hopes, and tragedies of that transformative decade. With eight gripping episodes, each approximately 52 minutes long, audiences are invited to dive deep into a world rife with vivid emotions, tough decisions, and inescapable contradictions.
Plot Overview: Love, Poverty, and the 90s
Set against the backdrop of 1996, the storyline unfolds during a period of economic turmoil and social chaos in Russia. The protagonist, Sanyka Ryabinin (portrayed by Yegor Gubariev), finds himself in a whirlwind of personal change as he attempts to move past his first love, Zhena (played by Valentina Lyapina). In his quest for solace, Sanyka seeks comfort in a new relationship with Ksyukha (played by Alexandra Kromova), the spirited daughter of a former militia officer. Ksyukha embodies a rebellious spirit, passionately embracing music and advocating for freedom—qualities that both thrill and trouble Sanyka. His daily life revolves around a small stall filled with audio cassettes, where he dreams of a brighter future amidst the chaotic backdrop of his life.
Concurrently, Sanyka's friend Vovka (played by Yegor Abramov) grapples with the complexities of family life, which proves to be a challenge even during more stable times. The tension escalates dramatically when Zhena returns to town with her new fiancé (played by Fedor Fedotov), igniting a storm of conflicting emotions in Sanyka.
Criminal Drama: From Despair to Hope
The series doesn’t shy away from the gritty elements of the decade, featuring gang-related confrontations that became synonymous with the genre. Sanyka's former associate Alik (portrayed by Yura Borisov) returns not entirely unscathed—he's alive but burdened with a heavy conscience. While Alik has embraced freedom, his companion Vitek (played by Nikita Pavlenko) remains incarcerated, highlighting the stark reality faced by many during that time. The city dynamics shift with the emergence of new factional groups, led by the asthmatic Vasya (played by Evgeny Tkachenko), whose chaotic leadership adds to the turbulence.
Alik, striving for redemption, endeavors to adhere to his principles despite the pull of his old criminal lifestyle. Simultaneously, Vovka stands at a crossroads, faced with the critical choice of either remaining on the sidelines or venturing into a life of crime.
Family Dramas: Imprisonment, Hopes, and Broken Dreams
Sanyka’s mother (played by Ksenia Katalymova) finds herself in pre-trial detention, anxiously awaiting a verdict that could result in a ten-year sentence. His father Fyodor (portrayed by Stepan Devonin) emerges as a disillusioned and ineffective figure, devoid of any support for the family during their turmoil. Amidst these familial strife, Sanyka struggles to balance his emotions, responsibilities, and aspirations for a better life.
The Atmosphere of the 1990s: Music, Decor, and Nostalgia
A standout feature of the series is its meticulous attention to the critical details of the era. The soundtrack, which includes hits from the 90s reimagined in contemporary arrangements, immerses viewers in the authentic atmosphere of those days. Every aspect, from the set design to costumes, is crafted to recreate the nuances of life in the 90s, making it particularly appealing to audiences who came of age during that period.
Nostalgia plays a definitive role, creating a connection across generations. For viewers aged 40 and above, the series serves as a catalyst for memories of youth during those challenging yet unforgettable years. Young actors like Yegor Gubariev and Alexandra Kromova effectively capture the essence of that time, breathing life into their characters and making them relatable to a contemporary audience.
Script Weaknesses and Strengths
While the engrossing atmosphere is undeniable, the series does feature a somewhat predictable script. The writers, including Alexander Belov, Petr Vnukov, and Sergey Panasenkov, utilize tried-and-true narrative devices such as the return of a former love, moral quandaries, and the struggle against inner demons. Despite these familiar tropes, viewers remain emotionally invested in the characters and their journeys.
The lack of a groundbreaking plot is offset by the emotional depth conveyed, while the criminal aspect injects adrenaline into the storyline. Fans of series like "Brigada" will find this element particularly appealing.
Cast and Direction
Impressive casting further enhances the show's appeal. Actors like Yura Borisov, Yegor Gubariev, Alexandra Kromova, and Evgeny Tkachenko each contribute to crafting multi-dimensional characters. Director Anton Fyodorov skillfully navigates the interplay between nostalgia, drama, and pacing, culminating in a viewing experience that feels seamless and engaging.
Ending: A Story that Resonates
The third season of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" continues to delve into themes of maturation, love, camaraderie, and societal injustice. Even with script shortcomings, the series stands as a vibrant representation of an era, eliciting a whirlwind of emotions from its audience. This narrative manages to strike a balance between being accessible and deeply moving, making it a candidate for re-watching.
For those seeking more than mere entertainment, the series invites them to reflect on the past, revisit their youthful dreams, and gain insights into the present.