Exploring the Complexities of 'Chewing Gum' Series
My Impression of the Series "Chewing Gum": A Tangle of Plot Lines and Teen Brutality
From the very first scene of the series "Chewing Gum," it’s abundantly clear that this is not just another coming-of-age drama; it’s an ambitious attempt to cram a multitude of storylines into a limited runtime. Yet, the final product evokes a whirlwind of emotions. While the underlying themes hold great significance, their execution leaves much to be desired.
A Maze of Plot Lines and the Constraint of Time
A hallmark of "Chewing Gum" is its barrage of parallel storylines that unfold simultaneously. The tapestry of the plot includes:
- Teenagers navigating their typical (and not-so-typical) issues.
- The criminal tendencies of the tyrannical character Kirill.
- The main character's mother, who has recently been released from prison.
- Roma's affluent yet emotionally barren family, burdened by a cancer-stricken sister and a detached father, amplifying the sense of despair.
- Themes of infidelity, bullying, and even stalking.
This multitude of events could have been a strength, had the series possessed ample time to explore each thread adequately. Unfortunately, the brief runtime results in a narrative that feels rushed, leaving characters underdeveloped and the audience in a state of confusion.
Main Characters: Hard to Foster Sympathy
As many viewers have pointed out, the characters in this series evoke more frustration than empathy.
- Galya Shalamova – The protagonist, whose life is fraught with challenges, fails to elicit straightforward sympathy from viewers. Her yearning for love and validation, although understandable, comes off as excessively clingy.
- Roma (Hans Shmyuze) – A wealthy influencer who targets Galya as an object of ridicule, embodies the archetype of a spoiled rich kid. Instead of inspiring any sense of pity, he magnifies the emptiness of his social sphere.
- Kirill – Galya’s cruel boyfriend with a penchant for crime, adds his own strain to the palpable tension and danger surrounding the narrative.
Even secondary characters, such as Roma's mother, who is detached from reality, or his sister grappling with illness, fail to ignite a desire for empathy. It appears that the creators have intentionally crafted all characters to be as off-putting as possible.
Collective Cruelty: Games Spiraling Out of Control
One of the most pronounced – and unsettling – themes of the series is the pervasive nature of collective cruelty. The so-called game that Roma and his friends play with Galya, dubbed "Chewing Gum," exemplifies a shocking disregard for another's feelings.
Scenes where a group of wealthy individuals mocks Galya poignantly highlight the issues of bullying and ethical irresponsibility. However, the shortfall lies in the series' inability to offer a thorough examination of this theme, merely showcasing it on a superficial level.
Is There Hope for Plot Development?
Despite its many flaws, "Chewing Gum" possesses potential. Galya’s journey, her attempts to break free from harsh life circumstances, and her quest for self-discovery in a deceptive and manipulative world could lay the foundation for a more profound narrative.
A glimmer of hope lies in the suggestion that Galya, after enduring a series of trials, may write a screenplay that could change the course of her life. This could evolve into a narrative about how art can facilitate healing and help one discover their place in the world.
In Summary: Is "Chewing Gum" Worth Watching?
"Chewing Gum" is a project that evokes a multitude of questions, yet often falls short of providing satisfying answers. It could be perceived as an experimental take within the realm of teenage cinema, but labeling it as a success might be premature.
Nevertheless, for those audiences intrigued by dramas that probe into complex relationships, the series may spark interest. Perhaps in future episodes, it will delve deeper into its themes and character arcs. For now, impressions remain mixed: the series fascinates while simultaneously frustrating with its surface-level exploration and convoluted plots.
Let’s remain optimistic that the creators will find the right direction and illustrate how even the most complicated circumstances can lead to redemption.