A Deep Dive into Season Three of Friendship and Drama

Rating: 8 out of 10
Release Date: May 4, 2023
Director: Anton Fyodorov
Starring: Egor Gubarev, Valentina Lyapina, Yuri Borisov, Nikita Pavlenko, Yevgeny Tkachuk, Viktor Sukhorukov, and others.

The much-anticipated third season of World! Friendship! Chewing Gum! lands as a captivating continuation of a beloved narrative showcasing the lives of teens in the 90s. This season transports viewers to the summer of 1996, where characters have aged two years and are confronted with a myriad of new challenges and trials.

The Evolution of Characters: Embracing Adulthood

While the core group of characters remains the same, significant growth is palpable amongst them as they transition into this new phase of life:

• Sanya (Egor Gubarev) has graduated high school and now operates a cassette stall. His journey takes an intriguing turn as he navigates budding romantic interests with a new girlfriend.
• Vovka (Egor Abramov) and Malaya (Polina Gukhman) have stepped into parenthood, yet Vovka finds himself wooed by risky ventures in a bid to support his growing family.
• Ilya (Fyodor Roshchin), the ever-quirky character, now seeks physical perfection, raising questions about the pressure teens face regarding body image.
• Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina) surprises her friends with the announcement of her fiancé’s arrival in town, stirring up a whirlwind of unexpected emotions.

Meanwhile, Sanya’s parents are enveloped in their own dramas: his mother lands in jail due to financial crimes, and his father clings to hope that Vitalik (Artur Beschastny) can save the day, ever-treading the line of legality.

A Gripping Criminal Narrative

This season peels back layers on the criminal underbelly of Tula, presenting a fresh perspective. While many prominent players from the past have met their demise, the screenwriters introduce intriguing new characters, and some familiar faces—previously presumed dead—make dramatic returns.

The reemergence of Alick (Yuri Borisov) and Vitka (Nikita Pavlenko) evokes a tapestry of mixed emotions. Their comeback feels more believable yet remains steeped in dramatic flair. True to form, the teenagers find themselves unwittingly caught in the midst of tumultuous criminal adventures.

The Soundtrack: The Heartbeat of the Series

Music once again takes center stage, enriching the narrative with a unique aura. The soundtrack features:

• Iconic hits from the 90s that transport the viewer back to that vibrant era.
• Tracks by Mujus, echoing the anxious inspirations of the time.
• The album "Sea" by Mumiy Troll, which—within the storyline—is released ahead of its real-world debut.

With its profound emotional resonance, the musical accompaniment heightens the storylines, encapsulating the spirit of change and uncertainty characteristic of the 90s.

Pacing and Anticipation: What to Expect from Season Three?

At first glance, the initial episodes of the third season may unfold at a slower pace compared to previous seasons, yet this merely serves as a facade. Tension mounts scene by scene, gradually restoring the frenetic tempo that became a hallmark of the series.

The screenwriters deftly navigate the delicate line between absurdity and realism, compelling viewers to empathize with the characters—flaws and all. Will the show maintain this electrifying suspense until the very end? Or are we in for another roller-coaster filled with jaw-dropping twists?

End: Why You Should Tune In

The third season of World! Friendship! Chewing Gum! stands tall as a vivid representation of nostalgic storytelling centered on the 90s. It harmoniously blends:

• Engaging characters, resonating with audiences through their authenticity and charisma.
• An era-appropriate atmosphere, brought to life through meticulous sets, music choices, and costumes.
• A narrative that keeps viewers on edge, despite its laid-back narrative style.

This season serves as another stepping stone into the intricate lives of characters who have “lived little, yet experienced much.” It comes highly recommended for anyone eager to relive the 90s or simply enjoy a standout Russian television series.