Explore the Dramatic World of 90s Russia in Season 3

The Russian TV series "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" has returned with its highly anticipated third season, which premiered on May 4, 2023, on the PREMIER platform. This period piece continues to captivate audiences with its remarkable recreation of the unique atmosphere of the 1990s. As a retro drama, it serves as a poignant tale of coming-of-age, a slice of society, and a romantic narrative that encapsulates the myriad challenges, hopes, and tragedies characteristic of the era. With eight episodes, each running for 52 minutes, viewers are promised a deep immersion into a world suffused with intense emotions, hard-fought decisions, and inherent contradictions.

Plot Overview: Love, Poverty, and the 90s

The events of this new season are set against the backdrop of 1996, a time when the country grappled with profound economic turmoil and social disarray. Our protagonist, Sanya Ryabin (played by Yegor Gubarev), finds himself at a crossroads of personal transformation. After heartbreakingly attempting to move on from Zhenya (Valentina Lyapina), his first love, he seeks solace in a budding relationship with Ksyukha (Alexandra Khromova), a strong-willed girl passionate about music who preaches freedom—attributes that intrigue and intimidate Sanya in equal measure. His daily life revolves around a small shop dealing in audio cassettes, all while he dreams of a brighter future.

Meanwhile, Sanya's friend Vovka (Egor Abramov) struggles to navigate the challenges of family life, which prove to be formidable even in more stable times. The narrative tension escalates dramatically with Zhenya’s unexpected return to the city, accompanied by her new fiancé (Fedor Fedotov), stirring a tempest of conflicting emotions within our heroes.

Criminal Dramas: From Despair to Hope

No tale of the 90s in Russia would be complete without the shadow of crime hanging overhead. Enter Alyk (Yura Borisov), a former friend of Sanya who reemerges alive but burdened by remorse: he’s free while Vitek (Nikita Pavlenko) remains incarcerated. The city's landscape shifts as new gangs assert their dominance, led by the unpredictable Vasya (Evgeny Tkachev), an asthmatic character whose existence introduces more chaos and confusion.

Alyk, in a bid to reclaim his moral compass, endeavors to stay true to his values, even as the circumstances around him pull him deeper into the criminal underworld. Simultaneously, Vovka teeters on the brink of a breakdown, confronted with a crucial choice: remain on the outskirts or take a plunge into a life of crime.

Family Dramas: Prison, Hopes, and Shattered Dreams

Sanya's mother (played by Ksenia Katalymova) finds herself in a pre-trial detention center, anxiously awaiting a verdict that could confine her to a decade behind bars. Her husband, Fedor (Stepan Devonin), remains a lifeless and ineffectual presence in their family, adding to the overwhelming sense of hopelessness. Against this heavy backdrop, Sanya struggles to strike a balance between his own desires, familial responsibilities, and an aspiration for a better life.

The 90s Atmosphere: Music, Decor, and Nostalgia

One of the series’s standout elements is its meticulous attention to detail in capturing the era's spirit. The soundtrack is a captivating blend of 90s hits reimagined in contemporary arrangements, which immerses viewers even further into the nostalgic milieu. Every aspect, from set design to costumes, authentically reflects the realities of that time, making it particularly appealing to those who grew up during the 90s.

Nostalgia emerges as a vital thread weaving together different generations. For those over 40, the series rekindles memories of youth, illuminating the complexities and unforgettable moments of those years. Young actors like Yegor Gubarev and Alexandra Khromova embody the spirit of that era, bringing their characters to life in a relatable and vibrant manner.

Script Strengths and Weaknesses

Despite its alluring atmosphere, the series does grapple with a somewhat predictable script. The writers (including Alexander Belov, Pyotr Vnukov, Sergey Panasenkov, among others) often lean on familiar tropes: the return of a lost love, moral dilemmas, and conflicts with inner demons. However, this predictability doesn't diminish viewers’ investment in the characters and their journeys.

While the absence of a groundbreaking plot is evident, the emotional engagement compensates for it, with the criminal elements adding an edge that resonates well with fans. Viewers drawn to shows like "Brigada" will likely appreciate this aspect of the narrative.

Cast and Direction

The casting choices are impressive, highlighting the talents of Yura Borisov, Yegor Gubarev, Alexandra Khromova, Evgeny Tkachev, each contributing significantly to the narrative depth. Director Anton Fedorov masterfully navigates the delicate balance of nostalgia, drama, and pace, crafting a viewing experience that captivates from start to finish.

Ending: A Compelling Tale

Season three of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" continues to delve into themes of growth, love, friendship, and social injustice. Despite some script shortcomings, the series remains a vivid portrayal of its era, provoking a powerful emotional response from viewers. This narrative is both easily digestible and profoundly moving, allowing it to be enjoyed time and again.

For audiences seeking more than mere entertainment, the series invites a reflective journey back in time, encouraging viewers to recall their own youthful dreams and glean insights into the present.