Exploring the Complexities of the Series 'Chewing Gum'

My Impression of the Series "Chewing Gum": A Tangle of Plot Lines and Teen Cruelty

From the very first frames of "Chewing Gum", it quickly becomes apparent that this is not just another run-of-the-mill teen drama. Rather, it's an ambitious attempt to cram a myriad of plot threads into a sharply-limited runtime. Yet, the outcome leaves viewers with a sense of ambivalence. While the issues it tackles resonate with significance, the execution falls decidedly short of what one might hope for.

A Web of Confusing Storylines and Time Constraints

One prominent feature of "Chewing Gum" is the multitude of storylines that unfold simultaneously. It presents nearly every recognizable trope:

• teenagers facing both typical and rather unique dilemmas;
• the dubious tendencies of the tyrannical character Kirill;
• the mother of the lead protagonist, recently released from prison;
• the affluent yet emotionally barren family of Roma, where a cancer-stricken sister and a distant father only contribute to a pervasive sense of despair;
• tales of infidelity, bullying, and even stalking.

Such a wealth of narrative elements could indeed be a boon, provided the series had sufficient runtime to fully explore them. However, the tight scheduling renders the plot haphazard, making characters appear underdeveloped and rushed.

The Main Characters: Sympathy is Hard to Earn

As many viewers have pointed out, the characters in this series often provoke irritation rather than empathy.

• Galya Shalamova — the lead heroine, whose existence is flooded with obstacles, seems designed more to annoy than to endear to the audience. Her quest for love and acceptance, while relatable, borders on excessive.
• Roma (Hans Shmyuz) — a wealthy blogger who turns Galya into a target for ridicule, embodies the quintessential spoiled rich kid. Instead of evoking some semblance of pity, he only amplifies the hollowness of his surroundings.
• Kirill — Galya’s tyrannical boyfriend with a penchant for criminality, contributes significantly to the overarching atmosphere of danger and tension.

Even secondary characters, such as Roma's mentally-disconnected mother or his sister battling illness, fail to ignite feelings of compassion. It seems the creators intentionally sculpted the ensemble to be as off-putting as possible.

Collective Cruelty: Games That Spiral Out of Control

One of the most striking and unsettling themes that recur throughout the series hinges on collective cruelty. The so-called "game" devised by Roma and his friends, which they dub "Chewing Gum," illustrates a shocking disregard for the feelings of another.

Scenes wherein this group of affluent youth mocks Galya starkly underscore issues of bullying and ethical dereliction. Yet, the series falters by offering only a superficial depiction of these issues without delving into deeper analysis.

Is There Hope for Story Development?

Despite its numerous flaws, "Chewing Gum" manages to retain a flicker of potential. Galya's narrative—her struggle to escape her tumultuous circumstances, accompanied by her desire to find her true self amid a world rife with deceit and manipulation—could serve as the foundation for a more meaningful storyline.

One hopeful indication is a subtle hint that Galya, after traversing through numerous trials, may eventually pen a screenplay that alters the course of her life. This could morph into a narrative highlighting how art aids in overcoming trauma and discovering one’s place in the world.

Final Thoughts: Is "Chewing Gum" Worth Watching?

"Chewing Gum" is a project that prompts a slew of questions while often falling short of providing satisfying answers. It could very well be categorized as an experiment in teen-oriented filmmaking, yet labeling it successful seems premature.

Still, for viewers intrigued by dramas revolving around complex interpersonal relationships, the series may offer some interest. There remains hope that subsequent episodes will display a more profound development of both its themes and characters. As of now, impressions linger in a state of duality: the series captivates yet simultaneously frustrates with its surface-level narrative and convoluted plots.

Let’s keep our fingers crossed that the creators will ultimately find the right compass and demonstrate that even from the most challenging situations, a path forward can emerge.