Exploring the Depths of 'Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!' Season 3
Rating: 8 out of 10
Release Date: May 4, 2023
Director: Anton Fyodorov
Cast: Egor Gubarev, Yuri Borisov, Valentina Lyapina, Fyodor Roshchin, Evgeny Tkachenko, Viktor Sukhorukov, and others.
Summer of 1996: What’s New?
The third season of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" transports viewers back to the summer of 1996, skillfully keeping the central cast while aging and maturing them. Set in the city of Tula, this new chapter comes two years after the events of the previous season, showcasing significant changes. The protagonists, who were once wide-eyed teenagers, now grapple with the complexities of adult life: familial responsibilities, questionable escapades, and even prison time—all intertwined with an ongoing quest for survival and happiness.
Major Plotlines:
- Sanya (Egor Gubarev): Just graduated from school, he's venturing into adulthood by working at the market while navigating a budding romance.
- Vovka and Malaya (Egor Abramov, Polina Gukhman): Embracing parenthood, the young father struggles to support his family, diving into risky schemes for money.
- Ilya (Fyodor Roshchin): A newfound passion for sports and weightlifting adds a humorous touch to his character.
- Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina): Returning to the city with her fiancé, she stirs up feelings of jealousy and surprise among her friends.
- Sanya’s Mother: Now incarcerated for her financial shenanigans, while her husband clings to hope for the family's survival.
Parallel to these personal dramas unfolds a criminal undercurrent in the city. The creators, unapologetically, anchor the story in Tula, introducing fresh characters as a response to the previous seasons' limited criminal backdrop. Moreover, previously thought to be deceased characters, Alik and Vityok, make surprising reappearances with plausible storylines.
Strengths of the Season
Atmosphere and Music
Once again, music plays a pivotal role in crafting the show’s atmosphere. The soundtrack is a delightful blend of 90s hits and original compositions specially crafted for the series. The inclusion of the album "Morskaya" by the band "Mumiy Troll"—despite its pre-release presence—becomes emblematic of a revitalizing era. Musical interludes enhance key scenes, enriching their emotional weight.
Attention to Detail
The visual aesthetics and script meticulously recreate the essence of the 90s. Every frame immerses viewers in that era, capturing the essence of market stalls, fashion trends, and everyday dilemmas. Personal and societal narratives intertwine seamlessly, painting a vivid picture of life during that dynamic period.
Characters Worth Staying With
The journey of the characters in season three is filled with events that resonate. The creators deftly strike a balance between comedy and drama, illustrating how youthful carefree-ness collides with the stark realities of adulthood. The performances are commendable; Egor Gubarev and Yuri Borisov notably infuse their roles with depth and authenticity.
Drawbacks and Controversial Elements
Some viewers might feel that the season’s beginning drags on a bit. While a slow buildup often heightens tension, in this case, it might frustrate those anticipating a quick plunge into action.
The return of certain characters previously presumed dead, though logically integrated, can occasionally feel like a narrative device to balance the storyline rather than an organic progression of the plot.
Overall Impression
The third season of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" continues to delight with its authenticity and emotional depth. The creators skillfully tackle significant themes of growing up, family, and friendship, all while reminding the audience that the series fundamentally revolves around human experiences. Despite the occasional contentious points, this season is a worthwhile watch, thanks to its quality direction, strong ensemble cast, and talent for evoking nostalgia for a bygone era.
Highly recommended for anyone who values depth and sincerity intertwined with a vibrant 90s ambiance.