Why 'Chewing Gum' Divides Opinions Among Viewers
The Series "Chewing Gum": A Harsh Dose for Naivety
The adolescent drama "Chewing Gum" sparks a whirlwind of debate among viewers, drawing a distinct line in the sand. Some perceive it as a raw reflection of the stark realities faced by modern youth, while others dismiss it as a tedious and disjointed drama that fails to inspire empathy for its characters or their motivations. Despite the differing opinions, one thing is certain: this project does not leave anyone indifferent.
Characters That Evoke Mixed Emotions
At the heart of the series is Galia Shalamova, a naïve girl unwittingly swept into a whirlwind of drama stirred up by her peers.
- Sympathy and Compassion: Some viewers find themselves genuinely concerned for her plight. For instance, Vladimir shares, "Poor Galia, I feel so sorry for her." In the eyes of many, she symbolizes vulnerability in a world rife with cruelty.
- Criticism and Frustration: Conversely, a segment of the audience critiques Galia's actions, with Maria commenting, "Let’s be honest, Galia is not the brightest bulb. I would even say she’s irritating and dull."
This conflicting perception might very well be the intent of the creators: Galia is not meant to be perfect; her flaws and blunders render her authentically human.
Intricate Plot Twists and a Harsh Atmosphere
"Chewing Gum" delves into pressing issues such as bullying, abuse, toxic relationships, and stalking. The tension between Galia and Roma escalates with each episode, and the staged death of a popular blogger becomes the focal point of intrigue.
The Cruel World of Adolescents
The narrative pays particular attention to Galia’s social circle. Roma and his friends are depicted as wealthy adolescents devoid of moral compasses. Their interactions with Galia exhibit a level of cruelty that, as Arina points out, feels "logical" considering the adults in the series seem no wiser.
Space for Critique
The plot is rife with moments that provoke questions.
- Musical Accompaniment: Boris criticizes the soundtrack, saying, "The music has me bleeding from the ears, I have to fast-forward past it."
- Character Behavior: Many viewers express irritation at how easily Galia falls prey to manipulation. Pasha sarcastically quips, "The main character's nickname fits her perfectly."
Cast and Direction
Actors: Fresh Faces
Audiences highlight the refreshing aspect of the cast, comprised of young actors who have yet to become familiar faces on screens across the country. This novelty gives the series an edge: the characters appear more relatable, resembling actual people rather than caricatures tied to well-known celebrities.
Direction and Atmosphere
Directed by Alexander Tsoi, known for his work on "Difficult Teens," the series continues to explore themes of teenage rebellion and brutality, crafting a dark and tense atmosphere. However, viewers note that "Chewing Gum" lacks groundbreaking innovations; many of its themes have been explored in prior teen dramas.
Reasons to Watch or Skip "Chewing Gum"
Pros
- Realism: The series candidly tackles contemporary teenage issues, sparing no harsh truths.
- Dynamic Plot: Intrigues and unexpected twists keep viewers engaged, making it difficult to look away.
- Brutal Morality: "Chewing Gum" serves as a kind of cautionary tale about the consequences of reckless decisions.
Cons
- Clichés and Tropes: Many scenes seem to echo familiar patterns that have been done to death in other shows.
- Lack of Depth: As Arina points out, while themes are introduced, they remain underdeveloped.
- Irritating Characters: Most characters lack likability, challenging the viewer's emotional investment.
Closure
"Chewing Gum" stands as a polarizing yet undeniably thought-provoking series. It addresses pressing societal issues and invites viewers to immerse themselves in the dark realm of adolescent cruelty. However, its chaotic narrative and illogical character actions leave a trail of mixed impressions.
For those prepared to engage with gritty and uneven storytelling, "Chewing Gum" may prove satisfying. For the others, it might just be a tough "pill to swallow"—one not everyone is eager to digest.