Discover the Third Season of 'Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!'
The Russian series “Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!” made waves upon the premiere of its third season on May 4, 2023, on the PREMIER platform. This captivating show intricately weaves the essence of the 1990s into its narrative tapestry, filling the screen with vivid imagery of an era that resonates deeply with its audience. Designed as a retro-drama, it simultaneously serves as a coming-of-age tale, a commentary on societal issues, and a poignant romantic saga. Viewers can anticipate eight episodes, each running about 52 minutes, immersing them in a world brimming with intense emotions, challenging choices, and the tangled web of conflicts.
Plotline: Love, Poverty, and the 90s
The narrative unfolds in 1996, amidst the economic and social upheaval that characterized Russia during this tumultuous period. Our protagonist, Sanyka Ryabin, portrayed by Yegor Gubarev, finds himself on the brink of personal transformation. Attempting to move on from his first love, Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina), he seeks solace in a budding romance with the spirited Ksyukha (Alexandra Khromova). As the daughter of a former police officer, Ksyukha embodies a free-spirited character passionate about music, which both excites and terrifies Sanyka. His daily grind is spent working at a cassette shop, nurturing dreams of a brighter future.
Meanwhile, his friend Vovka (Yegor Abramov) grapples with the difficulties of married life, which presents its own set of challenges even in more stable times. The dramatic tension escalates dramatically with the reappearance of Zhenya—now engaged to a man from a different world (Fedor Fedotov)—triggering a whirlwind of conflicting emotions within the characters.
Crime Drama: From Despair to Hope
The series does not shy away from the criminal underbelly that was prevalent at the time, which has become a hallmark of the genre. Sanyka’s former friend Alik (Yura Borisov), returns to the scene alive yet burdened by guilt: he walks free while his friend Vitek (Nikita Pavlenko) remains imprisoned. The power dynamics within the city are shifting, with new gangs enforcing their own rules. Their leader, the asthma-afflicted Vasya (Yevgeny Tkachuk), only furthers the chaos.
Alik, now determined to adopt a righteous path, struggles to maintain his principles amid circumstances trying to pull him back into the criminal abyss. Concurrently, Vovka stands on the precipice of a nervous breakdown, faced with the choice between remaining a bystander or becoming ensnared in the murky criminal world.
Family Dramas: Prison, Hopes, and Broken Dreams
In a further layer of the story, Sanyka’s mother (Ksenia Katalymova) finds herself in a pre-trial detention center, awaiting a trial that could result in a decade-long sentence. His father, Fedor (Stepan Devonin), appears as a defeated figure, offering no support to the family during these trying times. Against this backdrop, Sanyka navigates the turbulent waters of his emotions, balancing responsibilities, personal aspirations, and the yearning for a better existence.
The 1990s Atmosphere: Music, Décor, and Nostalgia
One of the standout features of the series is its meticulous attention to the details that defined the 90s. The soundtrack, blending beloved hits from the era with modern arrangements, serves as an auditory portal to the past, deeply enriching the viewing experience. Every facet, from set design to costumes, meticulously recreates the distinctive nuances of the decade, appealing particularly to those who grew up during that time.
Nostalgia plays a pivotal role in connecting generations. For audiences aged 40 and above, the series rekindles memories of their youth, of tumultuous yet unforgettable years. Young actors, such as Yegor Gubarev and Alexandra Khromova, exude the spirit of that epoch, bringing their characters to life in a relatable and engaging manner.
Script Weaknesses and Strengths
Despite its alluring atmosphere, the script does exhibit predictability. The writers—including Alexander Belov, Pyotr Vnukov, Sergey Panasenkov, and others—employ time-tested tropes: the return of a lost love, moral dilemmas, and battles with inner demons. However, this familiarity does not detract from the viewers' emotional investment in the characters and their journeys.
The absence of a novel plot twist is offset by emotional engagement, with the criminal element adding an edge to the narrative. Fans of shows like “Brigada” will find this aspect particularly appealing.
Casting and Directing
The casting is commendable, featuring talented actors like Yura Borisov, Yegor Gubarev, Alexandra Khromova, and Yevgeny Tkachuk, each contributing significantly to the depth of their characters. Director Anton Fyodorov masterfully balances nostalgia, drama, and dynamic storytelling, crafting a series that is captivating from start to finish.
Finale: A Gripping Narrative
The third season of “Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!” continues to delve into themes of growth, love, friendship, and social injustice. Despite some flaws in the writing, the series remains a vibrant testament to the era, invoking a torrent of emotions in its viewers. This narrative is both easily digestible and profoundly touching, making it a series worthy of repeated viewings.
For those seeking more than just entertainment, the show invites a reflective look into the past, urging viewers to recall their youthful aspirations and draw insights for the present.