Exploring Friendship and Challenges in the 90s: A New Season

The eagerly anticipated third season of the series "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" has made its debut in the online cinema space of PREMIER, immersing audiences in the year 1996—a pivotal moment when Russia was exploring its pathway toward the future and gearing up to "vote with their hearts." This year was not just a significant point in time for the country but also marked a transformative journey for the show's young protagonists as they step into adulthood. They are about to face a plethora of challenges, encounter new friendships, and have the chance to reevaluate relationships, aspirations, and the very paths their lives will follow.

A New Chapter: Complex Emotions and Tough Choices

At the heart of this season lies a romantic quadrangle, becoming a crucial narrative thread. Characters Sanyka and Zhenka, who have already navigated turbulent waters in their relationship, now face the additional complexities brought by newcomers Ksyukha and Gosha. These fresh personalities introduce unexpected twists that could alter the course of the story. Actress Alexandra Kromova, who portrays Ksyukha, shares her insights about stepping into her role, revealing parallels with her character—a dream of becoming a musician, an affinity for grunge music, and a quest for self-expression through creativity. She credits her collaboration with Victor Sukhorukov, a seasoned professional, as a significant motivational force during her performance.

Meanwhile, actor Fedor Fedotov takes on the role of Gosha, a charming young man aiming to win Zhenka’s heart. His character is both diplomatic and romantic, even proposing a getaway to Cape Verde. However, the audience, firmly rooting for Sanyka and Zhenka, finds themselves viewing Gosha through a lens of mixed emotions. Despite the ambivalence he engenders among the fans, Fedotov relishes embracing his character, recognizing the vital role he plays in this intricate love dynamic.

Family, Maturity, and Challenges

As for Vovka and Mala, whose connection evolves amidst youthful impulsivity, they grapple with the daunting idea of starting a family at the tender age of 16. Egor Abramov, who depicts Vovka, admits the notion strikes him as dubious, yet he discovers traits within Vovka that resonate with his own experiences. The weight of early adulthood and the responsibilities tied to family will serve as significant hurdles for his character this season.

Ilyusha, the most unconventional of the four friends, embarks on a new passion that initially appears quirky but gradually takes on a more serious tone. The underlying reason for his eccentricities connects to a diagnosis—suggesting that he displays traits of Asperger’s syndrome—deepening his character’s complexity. This facet, skillfully crafted by the creative team behind the series, allows the audience to experience Ilyusha’s unique worldview, fostering empathy and a fresh perspective toward individuals with similar experiences.

Adult Characters: From Crime to Redemption

The adult characters find themselves entwined in their own challenging narratives. A new criminal authority emerges in Tula, threatening to morph the city into a hub for heroin trafficking. This atmosphere heightens the dramatic stakes, underscoring the historical context of 1996, a time when Russia stood at a crossroads. Nikita Pavlenko, cast as Vitya, a veteran of the Afghan war, reveals that his character undertakes a complicated journey towards redemption following past mistakes. Vitya embodies the struggle within and the pursuit of meaning in a life marred by deep-seated traumas.

Authenticity of the Era

What sets "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" apart is its commitment to authenticity. The cast and crew place great emphasis on details that transport viewers back to the 90s. Valentina Lyapina, who plays Zhenka, explains that ahead of filming, she deliberately disconnected from modern gadgets to comprehend the lifestyle of people during an era devoid of the Internet. The characters are inspired by the cultural nuances of the time, drawing influences from the music, films, and fashion of the 1990s.

The Fine Line Between Fiction and Reality

The series creators focus intentionally on personal stories, having historical events serve merely as backdrops. Nevertheless, historical accuracy is integral to constructing the series' atmosphere; 1996, with its political and social upheavals, mirrors the broader societal condition. The creators assert that the ongoing success of the show hinges on finding themes that resonate with current viewers while revisiting the past.

The Legacy of the Series

"World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" has transcended mere entertainment to become a cultural phenomenon, prompting reflection on timeless values—friendship, love, and the trials of growing up. The third season not only continues to deepen the characters’ narratives but also compels the audience to embark on an emotional journey alongside them. Will there be a fourth season? While that remains a mystery, one thing is crystal clear: this project has carved out a cherished place in the hearts of its audience.