Exploring Season Three of 'World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!'

Rating: 8 out of 10
Release Date: May 4, 2023
Director: Anton Fyodorov
Cast Includes: Egor Gubarev, Yuri Borisov, Valentina Lyapina, Fyodor Roshchin, Yevgeny Tkachek, Viktor Sukhorukov, among others.

Summer of 1996: What’s New?

The third season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" transports viewers back in time to the summer of 1996, maintaining its core characters but allowing them to evolve with age and experience. Set against the backdrop of Tula, a lot has changed in the two years since the events of the second season. Our protagonists, who were once carefree adolescents, now grapple with the weight of adulthood. Family obligations, dubious schemes, and brushes with the law interweave with their timeless struggle for survival and happiness.

Key Plotlines:

• Sanka (Egor Gubarev): Fresh out of school, he ventures into adult life by working in the market while trying to navigate a new romantic relationship.
• Vovka and Malaya (Egor Abramov, Polina Gukhman): Now parents, Vovka finds himself deeply entrenched in risky ventures to provide for his family.
• Ilya (Fyodor Roshchin): He develops a newfound passion for sports and weightlifting, adding layers of comedy to his character.
• Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina): Returning to Tula with her fiancé, she stirs a mix of intrigue and jealousy among her circle of friends.
• Sanka’s Mother: Imprisoned for financial scams, her husband is left desperately seeking a way to hold the family together.

Additionally, the crime underbelly of Tula flourishes as the series unabashedly sets the narrative in this specific locale. After a noticeable cutback in the criminal elements in past seasons, the introduction of new characters adds a refreshing twist. Not to mention, presumed-dead figures Alyk and Vityok re-emerge, this time their return comes with a more believable rationale.

Strengths of the Season

Atmosphere and Music

As has been the case in earlier seasons, the soundtrack plays a pivotal role in crafting the show’s atmosphere. It features not only the greatest hits of the 1990s but also original compositions created specifically for the series. The album "Morskaya" by the band "Mumiy Troll", even appearing here before its actual release, has emerged as a symbol of the era's revitalized spirit. The integration of music intensifies crucial scenes, making them resonate more deeply with the audience.

Attention to Detail

Visually and narratively, the show meticulously captures the essence of the 1990s. Every frame immerses viewers in the decade, showcasing everything from street kiosks to the fashion trends and day-to-day challenges of the time. The intertwining of personal and societal narratives creates a vivid depiction of life during that era.

Characters You'll Struggle to Let Go

The journey of the characters in this season is packed with experiences. Writers expertly navigate the thin line between comedy and drama, highlighting how youthful carefreeness collides with the harsh realities of growing up. Standout performances, particularly by Egor Gubarev and Yuri Borisov, add emotional depth and authenticity to their roles.

Weaknesses and Controversial Aspects

Some viewers may find the season's beginning a bit drawn out. While a slow build can generally heighten suspense, in this case, it risks alienating those eager for immediate action.

The return of several characters, previously thought to be dead, although logically explained, sometimes comes off as a narrative device to reinstate balance rather than an organic part of the story.

Overall Impression

The third season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" continues to impress with its authenticity and emotional resonance. The creators effectively tackle significant themes of maturation, family bonds, and friendship, all while remembering that this project is fundamentally about people. In spite of its contentious moments, the new season deserves attention for its adept direction, strong acting performances, and its ability to evoke nostalgia for a bygone era.

Recommended viewing for anyone who appreciates depth and sincerity combined with the vibrant atmosphere of the 1990s.