Exploring Social Inequality in Russian Series "Chewing Gum"

The series has garnered attention due to its unique storyline, brisk pacing, and gripping content. At its heart, it tackles issues of social inequality, psychological drama, and pressing societal conflicts woven seamlessly with a criminal plotline that delves into the darker aspects of youth life.

Plot and Conflict

The narrative centers around the main character—a girl from an orphanage—who confronts the injustice and brutality of the world around her. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she falls in love with Hans, a pampered member of the metropolitan upper class. Hans is a prankster, viewing himself as a creative soul searching for meaning in life. He and his friends establish a chat group titled "Chewing Gum" aimed at playing tricks on the unsuspecting girl. Their cruel joke escalates drastically when they fake Hans's death, claiming he was shot. This shocking revelation triggers a spiral of dramatic and dangerous actions for her.

As Hans indulges in his whims and pursues another girl, our protagonist spirals into madness, immersing herself in the criminal underworld and ultimately becoming a victim of her own misplaced trust. This tale poignantly illustrates how a society riddled with cruelty can dismantle the fragile lives of its youth.

Genre Characteristics

This series amalgamates elements of drama, thriller, and social satire. Comparisons have been drawn to last year's series “Cicadas”, yet “Chewing Gum” is distinctly harsher and more intense. It carries a heavier dose of crime, violence, and psychological turmoil. Unlike “Cicadas,” which primarily focuses on adolescent issues, “Chewing Gum” also delves into the concerns of parents, making social stratification a central theme. No family in this story—whether from the elite or impoverished backgrounds—experiences happiness or harmony, underscoring the grim atmosphere.

Directing and Pacing

The plot is structured around a series of surprises. The brisk pacing and absence of drawn-out scenes keep viewers engaged; there’s little room for boredom. Each scene propels the story forward, ensuring that the interest remains piqued until the very end. The intricacies, especially those that highlight the social and personal contradictions of the characters, are meticulously crafted.

Themes and Subtext

“Chewing Gum” explores a plethora of themes, including:

• Social Inequality. The contrast between the impoverished girl and affluent pranksters raises questions about how wealth and privilege can shape moral values.
• Youth Cruelty. The reckless amusements of the elite become destructive forces for those who fall victim to their jokes.
• Family Crisis. Poverty, societal pressure, and the superficiality of the elite circle lead to the dismantling of familial values.
• Psychological Vulnerability. The main character’s naivety and inability to cope with social pressures render her a target of exploitation.

Critique of the Finale

One of the contentious aspects of the series is its ambiguous finale. Many viewers anticipated a more severe retribution for Hans and his group. The closing scene, hinting at the shattered fate of the protagonist, leaves a bitter taste, as the instigators of the conflict face little to no consequences.

This moment creates a dissonance among the audience: the young aristocrats essentially escape punishment while the girl’s life is irrevocably altered. Some argue that this reflects a harsh reality where wealth and influence allow individuals to elude accountability.

Visual Style and Atmosphere

The series effectively utilizes visual aesthetics to accentuate the contrasts among characters. However, some stylistic choices raise eyebrows. For instance, the heroine with pink hair, attempting to embody a bohemian beauty, comes off more as a caricature. This directorial choice might symbolize her internal disarray, yet it does not always resonate convincingly.

Ratings and Reception

Despite its numerous strengths, the series has received relatively tepid ratings. This could be attributed to its heavy themes, somber atmosphere, and the lack of catharsis in the conclusion. Nevertheless, many viewers have commended the creators for their boldness in addressing complex social issues. Some critics give “Chewing Gum” high marks, applauding its distinctiveness and relevance in contemporary discourse.

End

“Chewing Gum” is a series deserving of attention due to its depth, intensity, and the urgency of the issues it presents. It exposes a stark reality where social inequality and human cruelty lead to tragic outcomes. While criticism may surround its conclusion, “Chewing Gum” remains a vivid example of how modern Russian television can produce dramatic and thought-provoking works that compel viewers to reflect.