Exploring Season Three of 'Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!'
Rating: 8 out of 10
Release Date: May 4, 2023
Director: Anton Fyodorov
Cast: Egor Gubarev, Yuri Borisov, Valentina Lyapina, Fyodor Roschin, Evgeny Tkachuk, Viktor Sukhorukov, and others.
Summer of 1996: What’s New?
The third season of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" transports audiences to the year 1996, while retaining its core cast, who now appear older and more mature. Set in the city of Tula, significant changes have taken place in the two years since the events of the second season. The once-teen protagonists now grapple with the complexities of adult life: family obligations, dubious schemes, and even incarceration — all intertwining in their relentless quest for survival and happiness.
Key Storylines:
- Sankya (Egor Gubarev): Having graduated high school, he strives to carve out an adult life, taking on a job at a market and nurturing a relationship with a new girlfriend.
- Vovka and Malaya (Egor Abramov, Polina Guhman): They embrace parenthood, with young Vovka navigating the challenges of providing for his family by getting involved in risky ventures.
- Ilya (Fyodor Roschin): He becomes engrossed in sports and weightlifting, adding a comedic twist to his character.
- Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina): Returning to Tula with her fiancé, she sparks surprise and jealousy among her old friends.
- Sankya’s Mother: Imprisoned due to fraudulent activities, her husband clings to the hope of reuniting their family.
In addition, the city’s crime storyline unfolds, with the creators unabashedly setting the backdrop in Tula. To counter the previous season's dearth of crime-related figures, new characters are introduced, while supposedly deceased characters, Alik and Vitek, are revived with more believable motivations.
Strengths of the Season
Atmosphere and Soundtrack
As always, music plays a pivotal role in crafting the show's ambiance. The soundtrack features not only 90s hits but also original compositions crafted for the series. Notably, the album "Morskaya" by the band "Mumiy Troll," despite its actual release coming afterward, symbolizes a fresh breath of the era. The musical interludes underscore crucial scenes, enhancing their impact.
Attention to Detail
Both visual presentation and the script meticulously recreate the essence of the 1990s. Every frame immerses viewers in the period: from street market stalls to fashion trends and everyday dilemmas. The personal and communal intertwine, creating a holistic portrayal of life during that vibrant decade.
Characters That Are Hard To Let Go
The characters’ journeys in this third installment are filled with rich narratives. The creators skillfully maneuver between humor and drama, portraying how youthful carefree attitudes clash with the harsh realities of growing up. The performances are commendable, particularly by Egor Gubarev and Yuri Borisov, who imbue their roles with depth and sincerity.
Weaknesses and Controversial Aspects
Some viewers may perceive the season’s opening as somewhat drawn-out. Typically, a slow buildup heightens suspense, but in this case, it risks boring those eager for a swift dive into action.
The return of certain characters thought to be "dead," while logically justified, can sometimes feel like a narrative gimmick designed to rebalance the story, rather than being an organically woven part of the plot.
Overall Assessment
The third season of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" continues to captivate with its authenticity and emotional depth. The creators adeptly tackle significant themes of maturation, family, and friendship, all while reminding viewers that their project primarily centers on the human experience. Despite its few contentious elements, this new season is worthy of attention due to its solid direction, impressive cast, and the ability to evoke nostalgia for a bygone era.
Highly Recommended to anyone who appreciates depth and sincerity, complemented by the vibrant atmosphere of the 1990s.