Explore the Complex World of Russian Drama: Chewing Gum

This television drama grabs attention with its unconventional narrative, rapid pacing, and gripping content. At its core, the storyline dives deep into social inequality, psychological turmoil, and urgent societal conflicts, interwoven with a criminal subplot that uncovers the darker facets of young lives.

Plot and Conflict

At the heart of this tale is the protagonist, a girl raised in an orphanage, who confronts the harsh realities and brutality of the world around her. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she falls for Hans—a pampered heir of urban elite—and unwittingly steps into a cruel game. Hans, who fancies himself an artist of sorts, is a prankster on a quest for meaning, and he, along with his circle of affluent friends, creates a group chat named "Chewing Gum." Their intention? To manipulate and play tricks on the naive girl.

The cruel prank escalates to unfathomable levels when they stage Hans’s death, claiming he has been shot. This horrifying revelation serves as a trigger, propelling her into a whirlwind of devastating decisions and perilous actions.

While Hans engages in his frivolities and pursues another girl, the main character spirals into madness, sinking into crime and ultimately becoming a victim of her misplaced trust. The narrative starkly illustrates how society's indifference and human brutality obliterate vulnerable lives.

Genre

This series seamlessly blends elements of drama, thriller, and social satire. Comparisons have been drawn with last year’s show "Cicadas", yet "Chewing Gum" is undeniably grittier and more intense. It goes beyond mere teenage dilemmas, tackling the issues faced by parents as well. Social stratification becomes a central theme, depicting how every family—whether affluent or impoverished—battles their own share of discontent and disarray, emphasizing a bleak atmosphere throughout.

Direction and Pacing

The plot is structured around continual surprises, revealing the director's intent to create a fast-paced experience for the audience. With no room for drawn-out scenes, the rapid tempo and unpredictable twists maintain engagement without allowing the viewer to blink. Particular attention is devoted to details that highlight the social and personal conflicts influencing the characters’ lives.

Themes and Subtext

"Chewing Gum" explores a range of poignant themes, including:

• Social Inequality. The stark contrast between a struggling girl and her wealthy manipulative counterparts raises the question of how affluence and privilege can distort human morality.
• Youth Cruelty. The carefree antics of the elite turn devastating for those caught in their jest.
• Family Crisis. Poverty, societal pressure, and the superficiality of the elite circle contribute to the dissolution of family values.
• Psychological Fragility. The protagonist embodies naivety, falling prey to her own vulnerabilities and the weight of societal expectations.

Finale Critique

One of the most contentious aspects of the series is its ambiguous finale. Many viewers anticipated a harsher reckoning for Hans and his cohorts. The concluding scene, hinting at the protagonist’s shattered fate, leaves a bitter aftertaste, with the instigators experiencing little to no repercussions for their actions.

This moment resonates with viewers in a conflicting manner—while the young aristocrats escape justice, the girl’s life lies in ruins. Some argue that this reflects a harsh reality where wealth and influence allow individuals to evade accountability.

Visual Style and Atmosphere

The series skillfully navigates visual aesthetics to underscore the contrasts between the characters. However, certain stylistic choices raise eyebrows; for instance, the heroine, with her pink hair and aspirations of being a bohemian beauty, appears more caricatured than compelling. While this decision may symbolize her existential dislocation, it does not always resonate effectively.

Ratings and Reception

Despite its numerous strengths, the series garnered relatively low ratings. This could be attributed to its heavy themes, dark atmosphere, and the absence of catharsis in the conclusion. Nonetheless, many viewers praised the creators’ boldness in tackling complex social issues. A number of critics awarded "Chewing Gum" high marks, acknowledging its uniqueness and relevance in contemporary discourse.