Exploring the Layers of 'Chewing Gum': A Mixed Review

My Impressions of the Series "Chewing Gum": A Tangle of Plot Lines and Teen Brutality

From the very first frames of the series "Chewing Gum", one thing is crystal clear: this is not merely another teenage drama, but a bold attempt to encapsulate an incredibly intricate narrative within a limited runtime. However, the outcome evokes mixed feelings. While the themes addressed are undeniably significant, their execution leaves much to be desired.

A Maze of Plot Lines and a Lack of Time

A defining characteristic of "Chewing Gum" is the multitude of plot threads that unfold simultaneously. Almost every teen-related issue finds its way into this series:

• Teens grappling with their typical (and sometimes not so typical) problems;
• The criminal tendencies of the tyrannical character Kirill;
• The main character’s mother, recently released from prison;
• Romas's affluent yet emotionally desolate family, encapsulated by a sister battling cancer and a distant father contributing to a pervasive atmosphere of despair;
• Themes of infidelity, bullying, and even stalking.

An Abundance of Storylines, Yet Still Unrealized

While such a wealth of narrative possibilities could be seen as an advantage, the series stumbles, primarily due to its constrained timeline. The result is a storyline that feels rushed and characters that come across as underdeveloped and lacking depth.

Main Characters: Struggling to Elicit Sympathy

As noted by many viewers, the characters in the series tend to provoke more annoyance than empathy.

• Galya Shalamova — the central character is navigating a life riddled with difficulties but fails to garner unequivocal affection from the audience. Her quest for love and acceptance, although understandable, feels overbearing.
• Roma (Hans Shmyuze) — a privileged blogger who makes Galya the target of his ridicule, epitomizes the archetype of a self-indulgent rich kid. Rather than earning any sympathy, he amplifies the feeling of emptiness surrounding him.
• Kirill — Galya's despotic boyfriend, whose criminal inclinations contribute to the overall tense ambiance of the show.

Even secondary characters like Roma’s mother, who has lost touch with reality, or his sick sister battling illness, fail to evoke any strong emotional responses. It feels as though the creators have intentionally crafted every character to be as unlikable as possible.

Collective Brutality: When Games Spiral Out of Control

One of the most striking yet unsettling themes present in the series is the manifestation of collective brutality. Roma and his friends' so-called “game” with Galya, dubbed “Chewing Gum,” blatantly showcases a disregard for another person’s feelings.

Scenes depicting the wealthy group mocking Galya sharply reflect the issues of bullying and moral irresponsibility. However, the series falters by not delving deeply enough into this vital topic, instead only scratching the surface.

Is There Hope for Plot Development?

In spite of its various shortcomings, “Chewing Gum” still harbors potential. Galya’s narrative, her ongoing struggles to disentangle from complex life circumstances, and her quest for identity amidst a world rife with deceit and manipulation could lay the groundwork for a more meaningful story.

There are glimmers of hope, suggesting that Galya might pen a scenario that changes her destiny. This could blossom into a tale of how art serves as a powerful tool for overcoming trauma and discovering one’s place in the world.

"Chewing Gum" is a project that prompts numerous questions, often leaving them unanswered. Perhaps it can be regarded as an experiment within the realm of adolescent cinema, but calling it successful would be premature.

Nevertheless, for viewers intrigued by dramas that navigate complex relationships, the series may hold a measure of interest. Maybe future episodes will explore themes and characters with greater depth. For now, the impressions remain mixed: the series captivates at times yet simultaneously frustrates with its superficiality and convoluted plots.

Let us hope that the creators will ultimately chart the right course and demonstrate how one can forge a path through even the most challenging situations.