Exploring Chaos in the Series Chewing Gum

My Impression of the Series "Chewing Gum": A Chaos of Storylines and Teenage Cruelty

From the very first frames of the series "Chewing Gum," it becomes evident that this is not simply another run-of-the-mill teenage drama. Instead, it aims to crammed into a tight runtime a myriad of intricately woven plots. However, the result often evicts mixed emotions. While the subject matter appears significant, its execution leaves much to be desired.

The Maze of Plotlines and Time Constraints

A standout feature of "Chewing Gum" is the plethora of plotlines that unfold simultaneously. It encompasses nearly every aspect of adolescence:

• Teens grappling with their typical (and some atypical) challenges;
• The criminal tendencies of the tyrannical character, Kirill;
• The mother of the protagonist who has just been released from prison;
• The affluent yet emotionally barren family of Roma, featuring a cancer-stricken sister and a cold, distant father, which only amplifies the atmosphere of desperation;
• Infidelity, bullying, and even stalking.

While such a wealth of events could prove advantageous for an engaging narrative, the limited runtime ultimately stifles the potential for deeper exploration. The result is a storyline that feels rushed and characters that come off as underdeveloped.

The Main Characters: A Challenge to Evoke Sympathy

As numerous viewers have pointed out, the characters in this series often trigger annoyance rather than empathy.

• Galia Shalamova — the main protagonist, whose existence is riddled with difficulties, struggles to garner unequivocal sympathy from the audience. Though her yearning for love and acceptance is understandable, it often appears excessively clingy.
• Roma (Hans Shmuze) — a wealthy influencer who objectifies Galia, playing the role of the typical spoiled rich kid. Instead of evoking even a hint of sympathy, he reinforces the sensation of emptiness enveloping his surroundings.
• Kirill — Galia’s dictatorial boyfriend, harboring criminal inclinations, who contributes to the overall tension and danger of the scenario.

Even the supporting characters, such as Roma's mother who is disconnected from reality or his sister battling illness, barely stir a sense of compassion. It seems that the creators have intentionally crafted all characters to be as unlikable as possible, stripping away the chances for genuine connection.

Collective Cruelty: Games That Spiral Out of Control

Perhaps one of the most striking yet unsettling themes of the series is the aspect of collective cruelty. The "game" that Roma and his friends engage in with Galia, dubbed "Chewing Gum," starkly displays a blatant disregard for another person's feelings.

The scenes where a group of privileged youths ridicules Galia are particularly poignant in highlighting issues such as bullying and moral irresponsibility. However, the failing lies in the show’s superficial treatment of this critical theme, offering mere glimpses rather than a profound analysis.

Is There Hope for Plot Development?

In spite of its shortcomings, "Chewing Gum" holds the potential for growth. Galia's journey, her trials navigating through difficult circumstances and her desire to forge an identity in a world rich in deceit and manipulation, could serve as a foundation for a more thoughtful narrative.

One glimmer of hope lies in the suggestion that Galia, after enduring a series of challenges, could emerge to write a screenplay that transforms her life. This might unfold as a tale elucidating how art can aid in healing trauma and discovering one’s place in a convoluted world.

In Summary: Is "Chewing Gum" Worth Watching?

"Chewing Gum" emerges as a project that raises numerous questions while often providing no clear answers. It may be viewed as an experiment within the realm of teenage cinema; however, to deem it successful at this juncture would be a tall order.

Nonetheless, for viewers intrigued by dramas exploring intricate relationships, the series may hold a certain allure. Perhaps future installments will delve deeper into the complex themes and characters aboard. For now, the impressions stand as mixed: the series tantalizes while simultaneously frustrating with its superficiality and overwhelming plot complexity.

Here’s hoping the creators find the right path and unveil how even the most daunting situations can yield a way out.