Exploring the Depths: Season Three of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!"
Release Date: May 4, 2023
Director: Anton Fyodorov
Rating: 8 out of 10
The series "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" has firmly nestled itself in the hearts of its audience, masterfully balancing nostalgia for the tumultuous 1990s with a riveting and multi-layered storyline. The third season, which premiered on the online platform Premier, plunges viewers back into the cultural tapestry of provincial Russia in the mid-90s, yet this time it’s through the lens of the characters’ maturation.
Characters Grow Up, Complications Increase
At the heart of the narrative is a lively group of friends, whose escapades continue to lead them into a whirlwind of unexpected situations, even after two years have passed. Set during the summer of 1996, the timing coincidentally aligns with a new chapter in their lives.
- Sanya (Egor Gubarev) has closed the school chapter and is now grappling with the challenges of adulthood. His burgeoning relationship with a girl (Alexandra Khoromova) adds a romantic twist, yet does little to cushion the struggles of daily life, such as clocking in hours at a struggling cassette shop.
- Vovka (Egor Abramov) and Malaya (Polina Gukhman) have transitioned into the demanding role of young parents. Vovka retains his quintessential confidence, attempting to provide for his family through rather dubious methods.
- Ilya (Fedor Roshchin), a character with a turbulent inner world, becomes engrossed in physical self-improvement, heightening the dramatic tension of his persona.
- Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina) makes a surprising return to her hometown, not alone, but accompanied by her fiancé (Fedor Fedotov), adding unexpected layers of complexity to her interactions with friends.
Meanwhile, Sanya's familial troubles come to the forefront. His mother (Ksenia Katalymova) finds herself behind bars due to financial misdeeds, while his father (Stepan Devonin) pins his hopes on a former partner who may not be what he appears.
Criminal Tula: A Maelstrom of Events
The writers have decisively cast aside subtle allusions, pinpointing Tula as the story's backdrop. Since the events of the prior seasons, the city has undergone noteworthy transformations: many prominent figures in the criminal underworld have either met their demise, necessitating the introduction of fresh characters, or even the surprising "resurrections" of the old guard.
Viewers can anticipate the unexpected reintegration of Alik (Yuri Borisov) and Vitka (Nikita Pavlenko), whose deaths once seemed final in the preceding season. This time around, the writers strive for a more plausible rationale behind their survival, weaving intrigue and momentum back into the storyline.
Soundtrack: The Voice of an Era
The series continues to excel with its musical accompaniment, which remains one of its strongest attributes. The compositions by Mujus skillfully convey the tone of an era fraught with tension but brimming with hope. Iconic hits from the 90s add a nostalgia-inducing soundtrack. A notable mention is made of the album "Marine" by the band "Mumiy Troll," which—while inaccurately positioned in the timeline—actually releases a year early.
Slow Start or Calm Before the Storm?
In contrast to its predecessors, the third season kicks off with a relatively leisurely pacing. Nevertheless, an undercurrent of suspense is palpable from the opening episodes. The burning question remains: will the creators maintain this tempo, or will they, as is custom, immerse the protagonists into a tempest of gripping and perilous escapades?
The third season of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" serves as a rich continuation of the narrative exploring themes of maturation, tough decision-making, and the spirit of the challenging 90s. Despite certain contentious narrative choices, the project stands as one of the finest exemplars of modern Russian cinema. With its blend of intrigue, fast pace, and emotional depth, the series remains a must-watch for anyone who appreciates drama layered with historical nuances.