Exploring the Intricacies of the Series 'Gum'
On October 16th, the Premier platform unveiled an intriguing new Russian series titled "Gum". This eight-part teenage drama, directed by Alexander Tsoy, invites viewers to immerse themselves in the tumultuous world of youthful struggles, betrayed feelings, and intricate relationships.
Project Essentials
- Genre: Drama, Youth Film
- Director: Alexander Tsoy
- Number of Episodes: 8
- Episode Duration: 45-50 minutes
- Production: Russia
- Age Rating: 18+
"Gum" explores the journey of adolescents filled with aspirations, conflicts, and reckless actions - often leading to unforeseen consequences.
The Plot
Central to this narrative is Galya Shalamova, a girl from an orphanage who dreams of attending the scriptwriting faculty at VGIK. Galya yearns for liberation from the dreary confines of her institution. Her life takes a sharp turn when she watches a provocative livestream by eccentric blogger Hans Shmyuze, known for making outrageous statements solely for fame. Galya becomes convinced that she and Hans are kindred spirits.
A chance encounter blooms into romance between the two. However, what represents a first love for Galya becomes a fleeting affair for Hans. Disappointed and apathetic, Hans chooses an absurd method to break things off with her β he instructs his friends to tell Galya he's been killed.
Refusing to surrender to despair, Galya embarks on her own "investigation" into Hans's untimely demise, hoping to uncover the truth and seek vengeance against those she believes are culpable.
Characters
- Galya Shalamova (portrayed by Darya Balabanova)
An orphan whose naive outlook is shaped by adversity. Galya aspires to be a screenwriter but grapples with shadows of her past, including a mother recently released from prison and an aggressive boyfriend difficult to escape. - Hans Shmyuze (played by Anton Rogachev)
A blogger boasting 5,000 followers, ready to engage in outrageous antics for likes and recognition. Hans embodies typical "golden youth" traits; his father is a producer, and he receives little attention from his parents while dealing with the heavy reality of a seriously ill younger sister. - Kirill (portrayed by Anton Artemyev)
Galya's rude and unstable boyfriend whose problem-solving methods rely heavily on violence. He earns a living through criminal endeavors and harbors dreams of a lavish life abroad. - Misha Elchev (played by Pavel Maslakov)
A friend of Hans's who distinguishes himself from the rest of the group with a more humane approach towards Galya. - Vera (portrayed by Marusya Furina)
Another friend of Hans who harbors feelings for him but realizes that hoping for a serious relationship is futile.
Impressions of the Series
Narrative and Genre
The storyline is a blend of teenage dramatic elements intertwined with an ironic commentary on contemporary society. The series grapples with themes intrinsic to youth: first love, cruelty, misunderstanding, and sheer folly in decision-making. The characters often come off as childish and illogical, reiterating their age and inexperience.
The pacing of the story can be lethargic, which might fail to engage viewers effectively. While the opening episode boasts an energetic tempo, subsequent ones tend to drag.
Characters and Overall Atmosphere
A prominent issue with "Gum" lies within its characters. None seem particularly endearing to viewers. Galyaβs overwhelming naivetΓ© and Hans's cynical demeanor do little to stir empathy. The supporting cast often veers into caricature territory or remains shallow and underdeveloped.
Acting Performance
Despite a lackluster script, the performances tend toward commendable. Darya Balabanova and Anton Rogachev, known from other notable projects, deliver performances that hold up well against the backdrop of the material provided.
Visual Appeal
Visually, the series does not disappoint. The camerawork is executed thoughtfully, enhancing the ambiance of its scenes. The settings are varied, ranging from shopping malls and apartments to streets and deserted buildings, creating a diverse backdrop for the unfolding drama.
Epilogue
"Gum" seems poised to catch the attention of a youthful audience, but its appeal may wane among adult viewers. With a simplistic plot, unlikable characters, and contentious dramatic techniques, the series emerges as a polarizing piece. If you're drawn to light dramas showcasing basic conflicts, this might resonate with you. Conversely, those in search of profound, captivating narratives should likely steer clear of "Gum", as it is unlikely to provide a revelation.
Would I recommend watching the series? My answer leans towards a firm no. The numerous shortcomings overshadow the positives, making it hard to justify investing time in this production.