Nostalgia and Drama in the Third Season of ‘90s Series

"Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" — A Nostalgic Journey into the ‘90s: What’s Captivating About the Third Season?

The Russian series "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" made its much-anticipated return with the premiere of its third season on May 4, 2023, on the PREMIER platform. Known for its authentic portrayal of the tumultuous 1990s, this retro drama unfolds as a coming-of-age story intertwined with social commentary and a touch of romantic intrigue, encapsulating the myriad challenges, dreams, and tragedies of that era. Comprising eight episodes, each lasting 52 minutes, this season promises an emotional rollercoaster filled with vivid sensations, tough choices, and unavoidable contradictions.

Plot Overview: Love, Poverty, and Life in the ‘90s

Set against the backdrop of 1996, a year defined by economic strife and societal upheaval, we follow the protagonist Sanya Ryabin (portrayed by Egor Gubarev) as he navigates the tumultuous waters of personal transformation. Sanya is struggling to move on from his first love, Zhenya (played by Valentina Lyapina), finding solace in a new relationship with Ksyusha (portrayed by Alexandra Kromova). Ksyusha, a vibrant daughter of a former police officer, is a music-enthusiast who champions freedom—a combination that both intrigues and intimidates Sanya. He spends his days working in a stall selling audio cassettes, dreaming of a brighter future.

Meanwhile, his friend Vovka (played by Egor Abramov) is grappling with the trials of family life, which, even in better times, proves to be a considerable test of strength. The drama intensifies with Zhenya’s unexpected return to town, now engaged to a new wave suitor, Fedor Fedotov, igniting a tempest of conflicting emotions within Sanya.

Criminal Underpinnings: From Despair to Hope

No tale of the ‘90s would be complete without the unmistakable flavor of gang-related strife, which has become a staple of this genre. Sanya’s old friend, Alik (played by Yura Borisov), re-emerges alive but burdened with guilt: he is free while Vitek (portrayed by Nikita Pavlenko) is still behind bars. The city atmosphere is shifting, new gangs are establishing their own code, led by the chaotic, asthma-stricken Vasya (depicted by Evgeny Tkachenko), introducing an additional layer of tumult.

Alik, attempting to turn his life around, clings to his ideals, even as circumstances tempt him back into a life of crime. Simultaneously, Vovka teeters on the edge of a breakdown, faced with a precarious choice: remain an outsider or dive headfirst into the criminal world that surrounds him.

Family Turmoil: Incarceration, Hopes, and Shattered Dreams

In the midst of personal chaos, Sanya’s mother (played by Ksenia Katalymova) finds herself incarcerated, awaiting a trial that could imprison her for a decade. Her husband, Fedor (portrayed by Stepan Devonin), appears as a mere shadow of his former self, lacking the strength to support the family through these testing times. Amid these overwhelming challenges, Sanya strives to strike a balance between his emotions, responsibilities, and aspirations for a better life.

The Vibe of the ‘90s: Music, Set Design, and Nostalgia

One of the show’s standout features is its meticulous attention to the details encapsulating the decade. The soundtrack, featuring iconic hits from the ‘90s reimagined in contemporary arrangements, enhances the viewing experience, plunging audiences deeper into a nostalgic reverie. Every aspect, from set decoration to costume design, intricately paints the realities of that era, resonating particularly with those who came of age during those years.

Nostalgia serves as a profound connector between generations. For audiences over 40, the series evokes memories of youth filled with complexity yet unforgettable experiences. Young actors like Egor Gubarev and Alexandra Kromova embody the spirit of the time, rendering their characters relatable and real.

Script Strengths and Weaknesses

Despite its engaging atmosphere, the series grapples with a somewhat predictable narrative. The writers, including Alexander Belov, Pyotr Vnukov, and Sergey Panasenkov, rely on familiar tropes: the return of an old flame, the moral dilemmas faced, and the battle against inner demons. Yet, these predictable elements do not diminish viewers’ emotional investment in the characters’ journeys.

The lack of a groundbreaking plot is overshadowed by the compelling emotional stakes, while the criminal elements inject an extra dose of intrigue. Fans of series like "Brigada" will find this angle particularly appealing.

Cast and Direction

The ensemble cast deserves considerable praise. Yura Borisov, Egor Gubarev, Alexandra Kromova, and Evgeny Tkachenko each contribute to the depth of their characters, crafting an emotionally rich narrative. Directed by Anton Fyodorov, the series masterfully weaves together nostalgia, drama, and palpable tension, creating a viewing experience that captivates from start to finish.

Final Thoughts: A Gripping Tale

The third season of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" continues to explore the themes of maturation, love, friendship, and social injustice. Even with its script shortcomings, the show remains a vibrant reflection of its time and elicits a whirlwind of emotions from its viewers. This narrative is both easily digestible and profoundly moving, lending itself to multiple viewings.

For those seeking more than mere entertainment, the series invites a reflection on the past, rekindling youthful dreams and drawing lessons pertinent to the contemporary world.