Exploring the Depths of Season Three: Chewing Gum

The Third Season of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!": A Journey Through Time and Emotion

Rating: 8 out of 10
Release Date: May 4, 2023
Director: Anton Fyodorov

Starring: Egor Gubarev, Valentina Lyapina, Yuri Borisov, Nikita Pavlenko, Evgeny Tkachuk, Viktor Sukhorukov, and others.

The eagerly anticipated third season of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" picks up where the beloved story of 90s teenagers left off. This time, the setting shifts to the summer of 1996, and our heroes face the trials and tribulations that come with growing up, having aged two years since the last installment.

Coming of Age: A New Chapter for Our Heroes

The familiar faces remain, yet the experiences of life have sculpted each character into a version of themselves that is distinct and, at times, unrecognizable:

• Sanya (Egor Gubarev) has graduated from high school; he now sells cassette tapes at a kiosk, entering a brand new phase of life that includes budding romantic endeavors with a girlfriend who captures his interest.
• Vovka (Egor Abramov) and Malaya (Polina Gukhman) embrace parenthood, yet Vovka's desperate attempts to provide for his family lead him into dubious dealings.
• Ilya (Fedor Roshin), who has always danced to the beat of his own drum, now aspires to achieve physical perfection, reflecting his quest for self-identity.
• Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina) arrives in town with a fiancé, which sends ripples of astonishment through her close-knit group of friends.

Meanwhile, Sanya's parents grapple with their own crises: his mother finds herself behind bars for financial shenanigans, while his father pins his hopes on VITALIK (Arthur Beshchatny), who, as usual, walks a fine line with the law.

A Rich Criminal Narrative

The writers delve into the underbelly of Tula's criminal landscape, offering viewers a fresh angle on its dangerous allure. Key players in the criminal scene who met their demise in the second season now make way for new faces, while some allegedly dead characters resurface, injecting new life—and tension—into the storyline.

The return of Alik (Yuri Borisov) and Vitik (Nikita Pavlenko) stirs a mix of emotions; their "resurrection" feels more plausible this time, but it undeniably remains a dramatic plot twist. The teenage protagonists inevitably find themselves spiraling into the chaos, becoming unwitting participants in the city’s illicit whirlpool.

The Soundtrack: The Heart and Soul of the Series

Music once again plays a pivotal role, enveloping the narrative in an atmosphere that transports viewers directly back to the era. The soundtrack includes:

• Iconic hits from the 90s that anchor the viewer in a nostalgic reverie.
• The music of Mujus, infused with an unsettling inspiration true to the times.
• The album "Morskaya" by the band "Mumiy Troll," which, in the show's plot, is released ahead of its actual date.

This musical backdrop adds layers of depth and emotion to the narrative arcs, capturing the spirit of change and uncertainty that defined the 90s.

Dynamics and Intrigue: What Lies Ahead in the Third Season?

While the initial episodes of the third season may appear to unfold at a leisurely pace compared to the previous arc, this perception quickly shifts. Tension begins to mount with every scene, leading to the exhilarating rhythm that fans of the series have come to expect.

The writers skillfully navigate the thin line between absurdity and realism, compelling viewers to empathize with the characters—even when they falter and make poor choices. Will the series succeed in maintaining its thrilling momentum until the grand finale? Or are we in for yet another dizzying twist in this rollercoaster ride of storytelling?

Culmination: Why You Shouldn't Miss It

The third season of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" remains a striking representation of nostalgic cinema steeped in the essence of the 90s. It offers:

• Colorful characters that audiences adore for their relatability and charisma.
• A palpable period atmosphere conveyed through set designs, music, and costumes.
• A storyline that consistently engages, filled with lightheartedness yet brimming with suspense.

This season is yet another step toward understanding the characters' lives, where "little is lived, yet much is felt.” It's highly recommended for anyone eager to relive the 90s or simply enjoy an outstanding Russian series.