Exploring the Controversial Series 'Chewing Gum'

The Show "Chewing Gum": A Harsh Pill Against Naivety

The teenage series "Chewing Gum" continues to spark intense debates among its viewers. While some people perceive it as a sincere attempt to highlight the stark realities of today's youth, others dismiss it as a tedious and disjointed drama where neither the characters nor their actions evoke any empathy. Opinions are indeed polarized, yet one thing is certain: it’s hard to find someone indifferent to this project.

Characters Evoking Mixed Emotions

At the core of the series is Galya Shalamova, an innocent young woman who finds herself caught in a whirlwind of events instigated by those around her.

• Sympathy and Compassion: Many viewers genuinely feel for the protagonist. For instance, Vladimir expresses his concern: "Poor Galya, I really pity her." To numerous fans, she symbolizes vulnerability in the face of a harsh world.
• Skepticism and Irritation: However, a sizeable portion of the audience criticizes her behavior. Maria remarks, "This Galya, to put it mildly, isn’t too bright. I would even venture to say she’s rather dim-witted and annoying."

This contradictory perception may well be the creators' intent: Galya is not designed to be perfect; her frailties and blunders render her a relatable character, much like real people navigating life's complexities.

Intricate Plot Twists and the Atmosphere of Brutality

"Chewing Gum" is woven from sharp themes: bullying, abuse, toxic relationships, and stalking. The dynamic between Galya and Roma escalates with each episode, while a staged death of a blogger emerges as the central plot twist.

A Harsh World of Teenagers

A distinct focus is placed on Galya's surroundings. Roma and his friends are affluent teenagers lacking moral compasses. Their "games" with Galya illustrate a cruelty that Ariana remarks appears "logical," particularly since the adult characters in the series are equally misguided.

Room for Critique

The narrative is rife with moments that prompt critical questions:

• Soundtrack Issues: Boris slams the musical score, stating: "The music is ear-piercingly bad; I have to fast-forward."
• Character Behavior: Numerous viewers are frustrated by Galya’s ease of falling into manipulation. Pasha sarcastically comments, "The nickname of the main heroine suits her perfectly."

Cast and Directorial Choices

Fresh Faces on the Scene

Viewers note that the cast brings an element of freshness, with youthful actors who have yet to become typecast in familiar roles. This advantage allows audiences to perceive the characters as authentic individuals rather than mere portrayals associated with famous stars.

Directorial Approach and Tone

Directed by Alexander Tsai, known for his work on "Difficult Teens," he continues to delve into themes of adolescent rebellion and brutality with "Chewing Gum," crafting a dark and tense atmosphere. However, fans point out that the series lacks any striking innovative elements; everything portrayed feels recycled from previous teen dramas.

Reasons to Watch or Skip "Chewing Gum"

Reasons to Watch:

• Realism: The series authentically addresses modern teen issues, opting for an unvarnished narrative.
• Fast-Paced Plot: Intrigues and surprises keep viewers engaged.
• Harsh Morality: "Chewing Gum" serves as a stark warning about the consequences of reckless actions.

Reasons to Skip:

• Clichés and Tropes: Many scenes echo those trod upon in previous works, making them feel repetitive.
• Lack of Depth: As Ariana points out, while themes are presented, they often remain superficially explored.
• Unpleasant Characters: Most characters do not elicit sympathy, hindering emotional investment.

The show "Chewing Gum" is a contentious, yet truly engaging project. It tackles pressing issues and invites viewers into a grim world of teenage cruelty. However, the chaotic script and illogical character actions leave a mixed bag of impressions.

For those ready to embrace harsh, uneven narratives, "Chewing Gum" might resonate. Conversely, for others, it could serve as a "pill against naivety," one that not everyone is willing to swallow.