Exploring Season 3 of Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!
A Review of the Third Season of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!": "So Little Lived, So Much Experienced"
Rating: 8 out of 10
Release Date: May 4, 2023
Director: Anton Fyodorov
Cast: Egor Gubarev, Yuri Borisov, Valentina Lyapina, Fyodor Roshchin, Evgeny Tkachuk, Viktor Sukhorukov, among others.
The Summer of 1996: What’s New?
The third season of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" transports audiences back to the pivotal summer of 1996, evolving its cherished characters into more seasoned and mature versions of themselves. Set against the backdrop of Tula, two crucial years have elapsed since the events of the previous season, during which significant transformations have taken place. Our protagonists, once carefree teens navigating the throes of adolescence, are now grappling with the complex challenges of adulthood—family responsibilities, dubious undertakings, and the specter of imprisonment—all interwoven with the everlasting struggle for survival and happiness.
Key Plot Lines:
- Sanka (Egor Gubarev): Having finished high school, Sanka strives to embark on the journey of adult life, taking a job at the market while attempting to foster a budding relationship with a new girlfriend.
- Volka and Malaya (Egor Abramov, Polina Gukhman): Embracing parenthood, Volka faces the daunting task of providing for his family, leading him down the treacherous path of risky schemes.
- Ilya (Fyodor Roshchin): Enthralled by sports and weightlifting, Ilya injects a fresh dose of humor into his storyline, showcasing the whimsical side of his character.
- Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina): Zhenya's return to town with her fiancé sparks a wave of surprise and jealousy among her circle of friends, altering the dynamics in unexpected ways.
- Sanka's Mother: Facing imprisonment due to financial misconduct, Sanka's mother leaves her husband grappling with the family’s fate, raising the stakes for all involved.
Simultaneously, the narrative witnesses the rise of crime within the city—particularly centered around Tula, making no effort to disguise its setting. The third season introduces fresh faces to replenish the roster of characters, compensating for the earlier reduction of "criminal figures" as well as reviving supposedly deceased characters, Alik and Vitek, now with a more plausible backstory.
Strengths of the Season
Atmosphere and Music
Once again, music plays a central role in weaving the fabric of the show's atmosphere. The soundtrack encompasses not only iconic hits from the 90s but also original compositions crafted specifically for the series. Notably, the album "Morskaya" by the band "Mumiy Troll"—despite its release occurring later in reality—becomes a hallmark of a new era's vibrancy. The musical interludes accentuate pivotal scenes, rendering them even more impactful and memorable.
Attention to Detail
The visual aesthetics and script meticulously recreate the essence of the 90s. Each frame offers an immersive dive into the decade, with street stalls, fashion trends, and everyday dilemmas vividly brought to life. The interplay between personal and societal struggles paints a comprehensive overview of life during this period.
Characters You Can't Bear to Part With
The characters' journeys through the third season are rich with depth and nuance. The creators deftly navigate the fine line between comedy and drama, portraying how youthful carefree spirits confront the harsh realities of growing up. The performances resonate well, particularly those from Egor Gubarev and Yuri Borisov, who imbue their roles with profound authenticity.
Drawbacks and Controversial Elements
Some viewers might find the season’s opening episodes a tad sluggish, with a slower build-up of tension that risks boring those eager for rapid action. While the return of some characters presumed dead lends a sense of cohesion to the storyline, it can sometimes feel like a narrative trick meant to equalize character arcs rather than a seamless integration into the plot.
Overall Assessment
The third season of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" continues to impress with its authenticity and emotional depth. The creators successfully delve into vital themes surrounding maturation, family bonds, and friendship, all while remembering that their project is fundamentally a story about people. Despite some contentious aspects, the new season is well worth attention, brimming with quality direction, a strong cast, and a knack for evoking nostalgia for a bygone era.
Recommended for viewing to anyone who appreciates depth and sincerity intertwined with the vibrant atmosphere of the 90s.