Dive into the Nostalgic 90s with Season 3 of the Series

The much-anticipated third season of the Russian series "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" premiered on May 4, 2023, on the PREMIER platform, and it continues to enchant audiences with its meticulous portrayal of the 1990s. This retro drama serves as a coming-of-age story, a social commentary, and a romantic tale, reflecting the complexities, hopes, and tragedies of that tumultuous era. With eight episodes, each lasting around 52 minutes, viewers can expect to be drawn into a world filled with vivid emotions, tough choices, and undeniable contradictions.

Plot Overview: Love, Poverty, and 90s Chaos

Set against the backdrop of 1996, a year marked by economic and social upheaval, the new season follows Sanka Ryabin (portrayed by Yegor Gubarev) as he navigates a period of personal transformation. He is attempting to move on from Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina), his first love, and finds solace in a budding relationship with the spirited Ksyukha (Alexandra Khromova). The daughter of a former police officer, Ksyukha embodies the essence of freedom and passion for music, which intrigues and intimidates Sanka all at once. Much of his day-to-day life involves working at a cassette tape kiosk, where his dreams of a better life swirl amidst the chaos of the surrounding world.

Meanwhile, Sanka's friend Vovka (Yegor Abramov) struggles to uphold his family life, which proves to be a challenge even in more stable times. The drama intensifies when Zhenya re-enters the scene, now engaged to a new-age fiancé Fedor Fedotov, igniting a storm of conflicting emotions among the characters.

A Criminal Drama: From Despair to Hope

No exploration of the 90s would be complete without delving into the underbelly of crime that defined the era. The return of Sanka’s former friend Alik (Yura Borisov) brings both familiarity and burden as he grapples with a past steeped in crime while Vitek (Nikita Pavlenko) remains incarcerated. The cityscape is shifting with the emergence of new gangsters who play by their own set of rules, led by a chaotic asthmatic named Vasya (Evgeny Tkachenko), further adding to the unrest.

As Alik strives to reform and adhere to his moral compass, he finds the pull toward his old life difficult to resist. Concurrently, Vovka reaches a breaking point, facing the pivotal decision of whether to remain on the periphery or plunge headfirst into the criminal world.

Family Dramas: Prison, Aspirations, and Shattered Dreams

In a poignant subplot, Sanka’s mother (Ksenia Katalymova) finds herself in pre-trial detention, awaiting a verdict that could lead to a decade behind bars. Sanka’s father, Fedor (Stepan Devonin), appears listless and weak, contributing little to the family’s support. Amidst this turmoil, Sanka strives to balance his life, feelings, and his yearning for a brighter future.

The 1990s Atmosphere: Music, Decor, and Nostalgia

One of the standout features of the series is its unwavering attention to the crucial details of the era. The soundtrack is enriched with hits from the 90s, reimagined for a contemporary audience, forming a powerful connection to the past. Every element—from the set designs to the costumes—captures the essence of those years, making it a nostalgic feast for viewers who grew up during that time.

Nostalgia plays a significant role, bridging generational divides. For audiences over 40, the series stirs memories of youth and the complex, yet indelible years they spent growing up. Young actors like Yegor Gubarev and Alexandra Khromova vividly convey the spirit of the decade, making their characters relatable and alive.

Strengths and Weaknesses of the Script

Despite the captivating atmosphere, the series does not shy away from predictable storytelling. The writers, including Alexander Belov, Petr Vnukov, and Sergey Panasenkov, lean on tried-and-true tropes, such as the return of lost love, moral dilemmas, and internal struggles. Yet, these clichés do not detract from the viewer's investment in the characters’ journeys.

Although the lack of an original plot may raise eyebrows, the emotional engagement and the gritty elements of crime add an enticing layer. Viewers fond of series like "Brigada" will appreciate this angle as it intensifies the stakes for the characters involved.

Cast and Direction

The talent behind the series is equally impressive. Actors Yura Borisov, Yegor Gubarev, Alexandra Khromova, and Evgeny Tkachenko contribute depth to their roles, breathing life into the characters. Director Anton Fedorov expertly balances nostalgia, drama, and pacing, creating a viewing experience that is both engaging and immersive.

Ending: A Story That Resonates

The third season of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" continues to explore themes of maturation, love, friendship, and social injustice. While the script may have its limitations, the series is a vivid representation of the period, stirring a whirlwind of emotions among its audience. This narrative is both easy to digest and profoundly touching, making it a show you can revisit time and again.

For viewers seeking something beyond mere entertainment, the series offers a glimpse into the past, allowing them to reflect on their youthful dreams while drawing insights about the present.