Dive Into the Dark Themes of the Series 'Chewing Gum'

"Chewing Gum" has captured the spotlight with its unique narrative, a pulsating storyline, and compelling subject matter. At its core, the series tackles themes of social inequality, psychological turmoil, and intense societal conflicts intertwined with a gripping crime narrative that unveils the darker facets of youth life.

Plot and Conflict

The protagonist is a young woman raised in an orphanage, who faces the harsh injustices and brutality of the world around her. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she falls for Hans, a privileged member of the urban elite, who perceives himself as an avant-garde prankster in search of life's deeper meaning. Along with his friends, Hans sets up a chat group called "Chewing Gum" with the malicious intent to deceive the naïve girl. Things escalate when they stage Hans's supposed death, informing her that he has been shot. This shocking revelation acts as a catalyst for her, pushing her toward a path filled with desperate and dangerous choices.

While Hans is busy mingling with another girlfriend, the main character spirals into madness, diving headfirst into the criminal underworld and ultimately becoming a victim of her misplaced trust. This tale poignantly illustrates how society and human cruelty can obliterate fragile destinies.

Genre and Themes

Blending drama, thriller, and social satire, the series is often compared to last year’s "Cicadas", yet "Chewing Gum" is notably more intense and suspenseful. It delves deeper into crime, violence, and psychological tension, revealing not only the issues faced by teenagers but also those of their parents. The theme of social division emerges as a focal point, where every family, whether wealthy or struggling, grapples with a lack of happiness and harmony, accentuating a grim atmosphere throughout the series.

Directing and Pacing

The storyline thrives on constant surprises. With no prolonged scenes to drag the pace, the series maintains a rapid tempo filled with unforeseen twists that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Boredom is a foreign concept; each scene seamlessly pushes the narrative forward, holding the audience's interest right until the very end. The attention to detail is particularly commendable, as it effectively highlights the social and personal contradictions faced by the characters.

Themes and Undertexts

"Chewing Gum" addresses a myriad of themes, including:

• Social Inequality. The stark contrast between the impoverished young woman and her affluent prankster peers provokes critical reflection on how wealth and privilege can skew moral perspectives.
• Youth Cruelty. The carefree antics of the elite turn destructive for those caught in the crossfire of their jokes.
• Family Crisis. Poverty, societal pressure, and the superficiality of the elite circle contribute to the disintegration of familial bonds.
• Psychological Vulnerability. The central character falls prey to her own naivety and struggle to cope with social expectations.

Ending Critique

One of the most contentious aspects of the series is its ambiguous conclusion. Many viewers anticipated a more severe retribution for Hans and his clique. The final scene, hinting at the shattered fate of the main heroine, leaves a bitter taste, as the instigators of the conflict seem to escape significant consequences.

This moment sparks a dissonance among viewers: the youthful aristocrats evade punishment, while the girl's life lies in ruins. Some argue that this reflects a harsh truth of life, wherein wealth and influence allow one to sidestep accountability.

Visual Style and Atmosphere

The series skillfully employs visual aesthetics to underscore the contrasts between its characters. However, certain stylistic choices have prompted questions. For instance, the protagonist with pink hair, seemingly aiming for a bohemian beauty aesthetic, comes across rather caricature-like. This directorial choice may symbolize her internal estrangement but doesn’t consistently resonate effectively.

Ratings and Reception

Despite its strong points, the series garnered relatively low ratings. This could be attributed to its weighty themes, somber tone, and the lack of catharsis in the finale. Nevertheless, many viewers lauded the creators’ boldness in addressing complex social issues. Some critics gave "Chewing Gum" high marks, commending its uniqueness and relevance.

Ending

"Chewing Gum" is a series that merits attention for its depth, tension, and the pressing themes it explores. It showcases a harsh reality where social inequality and human malice lead to tragic outcomes. Despite criticism of its conclusion, "Chewing Gum" stands as a vivid illustration of how contemporary Russian television can craft dramatic and witty narratives that inspire contemplation.