Exploring Season Three of 'Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!'
Review of Season Three of the Series "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!": "So Little Lived, So Much Experienced"
Rating: 8 out of 10
Release Date: May 4, 2023
Director: Anton Fyodorov
Cast: Yegor Gubarev, Yuri Borisov, Valentina Lyapina, Fyodor Roschin, Yevgeny Tkachenko, Viktor Sukhorukov, and others.
Summer of 1996: What’s New?
The third season of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" transports viewers back to 1996, bringing back familiar faces who are now older and wiser. Set in the city of Tula, significant transformations have taken place over the two years that have passed since the previous season's events. Our youthful protagonists, once carefree adolescents, now grapple with the trials of adulthood: familial responsibilities, dubious escapades, and even an encounter with the law—all while navigating the unending struggle for survival and happiness.
Key Plot Lines:
- Sanka (Yegor Gubarev): Having wrapped up his schooling, he embarks on the road to adulthood by working at a market and building a new relationship with a girlfriend.
- Vovka and Malaya (Yegor Abramov, Polina Gukhman): Stepping into parenthood, Vovka finds himself caught in a web of risky schemes as he seeks ways to provide for his family.
- Ilya (Fyodor Roschin): Now a sports enthusiast, his adventures with weights add a layer of humor to his character.
- Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina): Returning to the city with her fiancé, she stirs up a mix of surprise and jealousy among her friends.
- Sanka’s Mother: Behind bars for embezzlement, her husband clings to hope for a reunion of their fractured family.
Meanwhile, the undercurrents of crime flow through the city as well, with the screenwriters boldly tagging Tula as the setting. Following a notable thinning of criminal characters in previous seasons, new figures emerge to breathe life into the plot. Additionally, presumed deceased characters Alyk and Vitek reappear, this time backed by a more plausible rationale.
Strengths of the Season
Atmosphere and Soundtrack
Once again, the music reigns supreme in forging the show's atmosphere. The soundtrack is a delightful blend of 90s hits along with original compositions crafted specifically for the series. The album "Morskaya" by the band "Mumiy Troll"—though released in the series before its actual debut—has become a beacon of the fresh air of a bygone era. These musical interludes accentuate pivotal scenes, amplifying their emotional impact.
Attention to Detail
The painstakingly crafted visual elements and script recreate the essence of the '90s. Each frame is a time capsule of the era, showcasing market stalls, fashion trends, and everyday challenges. The fusion of personal and social narratives paints a holistic picture of life during those times.
Characters That Are Hard to Bid Farewell
The journeys of the characters throughout season three are laden with a rich tapestry of events. The creators skillfully navigate the balance between comedy and drama, illustrating how youthful frivolity collides with the stark realities of growing up. The performances are commendable, particularly those of Yegor Gubarev and Yuri Borisov, who inject depth and authenticity into their roles.
Weaknesses and Controversial Moments
For some viewers, the season's start may feel drawn out. While a slow-paced plot typically ramps up tension, in this instance, it risks losing the interest of those eager for an adrenaline-fueled storyline.
Moreover, the return of characters previously thought dead, while fitting within the narrative, may come off as a plot device for recalibrating the storyline rather than an organic progression of the plot.
Overall Assessment
Season three of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" continues to enchant audiences with its authenticity and emotional depth. The writers deftly delve into significant themes of maturation, family bonds, and friendship, always remembering that at its core, their project is a tale about people. Despite the noted shortcomings, this new season deserves accolades for its masterful direction, a formidable cast, and the ability to evoke nostalgia for a time long past.
Recommended for viewing to those who value profound storytelling and sincerity intertwined with the vibrant environment of the '90s.