Exploring the Depths of 'Chewing Gum': A Teen Drama Review
On October 16th, the Premier platform unveiled "Chewing Gum", a brand new Russian teen drama series crafted by director Alexander Tsoy. This eight-episode show invites viewers to immerse themselves in the tumultuous world of adolescence, complete with its ups and downs, heart-wrenching emotions, and tangled relationships.
Key Details About the Series
- Genre: Drama, Youth Film
- Director: Alexander Tsoy
- Number of Episodes: 8
- Episode Length: 45-50 minutes
- Produced In: Russia
- Age Rating: 18+
"Chewing Gum" unveils the life of teenagers bursting with dreams, fraught with conflicts, and prone to reckless decisions that often culminate in sharp and unpredictable outcomes.
Plot Overview
At the heart of this narrative is Galya Shalamova, a girl from a children’s home who aspires to enroll in the screenwriting department at VGIK. Longing for liberation from the oppressive atmosphere of the orphanage, her existence takes a dramatic turn when she comes across a livestream by the flamboyant blogger Hans Schmuze, who thrives on sensational statements to attract attention. Galya feels an inexplicable connection to Hans, convinced they are kindred spirits.
Their fateful encounter sparks a romance, but what Galya views as her first love, Hans regards merely as a fleeting fling. His disillusionment leads him to end things in a uniquely absurd manner, requesting friends to inform Galya that he has been killed.
However, instead of yielding to despair, Galya embarks on her own "investigation" into Hans’s supposed demise, driven by a desire to unearth the truth and seek justice against those who have wronged her.
Character Profiles
Galya Shalamova (portrayed by Darya Balabanova)
An orphan grappling with the weight of her dire circumstances. With dreams of becoming a screenwriter, Galya is haunted by her turbulent past, including a mother recently released from prison and an aggressive boyfriend she cannot escape.
Hans Schmuze (played by Anton Rogachev)
A blogger boasting 5,000 followers, Hans is willing to go to absurd lengths for likes and followers. He embodies a quintessential member of the privileged youth, with a producer father and distant parents, while his younger sister battles a serious illness.
Kirill (portrayed by Anton Artemyev)
Galya’s rough and irrational boyfriend. His solution to conflicts hinges upon violence, as he makes a living through illicit means, yearning for a life of luxury abroad.
Misha Yelchev (played by Pavel Maslakov)
Hans’s friend, who displays a more humane approach towards Galya compared to the rest of the gang.
Vera (portrayed by Marousya Furina)
Another of Hans's friends, harboring feelings for him yet resigned to the realization that any serious relationship is out of reach.
Impressions of the Series
Plot and Genre
The narrative merges adolescent drama with a satirical commentary on contemporary society. Themes of first love, brutality, misunderstanding, and irrational choices intertwine. The characters often reflect immature and illogical behavior, a testament to their youthful inexperience.
However, the storyline unfolds slowly, sometimes failing to captivate viewers. While the initial episode is energetic, subsequent episodes lose momentum.
Character Dynamics and Atmosphere
One critical issue with the series is its character development. None of the characters evoke affection or empathy; Galya seems excessively naive, while Hans comes off as cynical. The supporting cast fits either an exaggerated caricature mold or plays secondary roles that feel minor and insignificant.
Acting Performance
Despite a lackluster script, the actors strive to deliver commendable performances. Both Darya Balabanova and Anton Rogachev have distinguished themselves in past projects, and their acting is quite satisfactory given the circumstances.
Visual Presentation
On a positive note, the show excels in its visual aesthetic. The cinematography captures the essence of each scene effectively, with locations ranging from shopping malls and cozy apartments to gritty streets and abandoned buildings.
Culmination
"Chewing Gum" aims to captivate a youthful audience, but it is unlikely to resonate with adult viewers. The simplistic plot, unlikable characters, and questionable dramatic elements render the series a mixed bag. If you lean toward light-hearted dramas peppered with uncomplicated conflicts, you might find some charm here. However, if you seek profound and engaging stories, "Chewing Gum" may not live up to your expectations.
Would I recommend this series? Probably not. The cons outweigh the pros significantly, making it hard to justify the time investment.