Exploring the Depths of Season Three of Friendship Series
Rating: 8 out of 10
Release Date: May 4, 2023
Director: Anton Fedorov
Cast: Egor Gubarev, Yuri Borisov, Valentina Lyapina, Fyodor Roschin, Evgeny Tkachuk, Viktor Sukhorukov, among others.
A Glimpse into Summer 1996: What’s New?
The third season of “World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!” takes viewers on a nostalgic journey back to the summer of 1996, while keeping the beloved characters intact, albeit a bit older and wiser. Set in the city of Tula, we witness significant shifts in the lives of the characters over the two years since the previous season. The main protagonists, who once navigated the carefree world of adolescence, are now grappling with the harsh realities of adulthood. From family responsibilities to questionable escapades, and even brushes with the law, each character is embroiled in the timeless struggle for survival and happiness.
Key Storylines:
- Sanya (Egor Gubarev): Fresh out of school, he strives to kickstart his adult life by working at the market while attempting to forge a relationship with a new girlfriend.
- Vovka and Malaya (Egor Abramov, Polina Gukhman): Embracing parenthood, the young father finds himself desperately seeking ways to support his family, getting tangled in perilous schemes along the way.
- Ilya (Fyodor Roschin): Now immersed in sports and weightlifting, his quirky personality adds yet another layer of humor to the narrative.
- Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina): Returning to the city with her fiancé, her arrival stirs up a mix of astonishment and jealousy among his friends.
- Sanya’s Mother: Involved in fraudulent activities, she lands in prison, leaving her husband hoping for a family rescue.
Amid this backdrop of personal dilemmas, the series doesn’t shy away from depicting the criminal landscape of the city. Tula, being mentioned directly, becomes the gritty setting for new players introduced into the criminal underbelly, freshening the plot after a notable reduction of crime-related aspects in prior seasons. Interestingly, formerly presumed dead characters, Alik and Vitek, are brought back to life with plausible explanations, adding a twist to the storyline.
Strengths of the Season
Atmosphere and Music
True to its roots, music plays a pivotal role in crafting the season’s ambiance. The soundtrack blends the iconic hits of the 90s with original compositions tailored specifically for the show. Among these is the album “Morskaya” by the band Mumiy Troll, which, although released in the series before its actual debut, embodies the spirit of a revitalizing era. The musical interludes accentuate key scenes, rendering them more impactful and memorable.
Attention to Detail
The visual storytelling and script painstakingly reproduce the essence of the 90s. Each frame immerses the audience in the era, with roadside stalls, fashion trends, and everyday dilemmas weaving together a cohesive tapestry of life in that time period. The intertwining of personal and societal narratives paints a rich picture of an unforgettable chapter in history.
Irreplaceable Characters
The journey of the characters in this season is nothing short of eventful. The creators expertly navigate the delicate balance between comedy and drama, illustrating how youthful carefreeness collides with the unyielding truths of growing up. The performances, particularly by Egor Gubarev and Yuri Borisov, shine brightly, infusing their roles with depth and authenticity.
Weaknesses and Controversial Aspects
Some viewers may find the start of the season a tad sluggish. While slow-building tension can often enhance a narrative, in this case, it risks exhausting those eager for an immediate plunge into high-octane action.
The revival of certain characters who were previously thought to be dead, though justifiable within the plot, might be perceived by some as a contrived narrative strategy to realign balance rather than a seamless integration into the story.
Overall Impression
The third season of “World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!” continues to charm its audience with remarkable authenticity and emotional depth. The creators adeptly explore significant themes of coming-of-age, familial bonds, and the essence of friendship, reminding the viewers that, above all, this series is fundamentally about people. Despite a few contentious moments, the new season warrants attention, thanks to its skilled direction, robust cast, and an exceptional ability to evoke nostalgia for a bygone era.
A must-watch for anyone who values depth and sincerity, infused with the vibrant atmosphere of the 90s.