Exploring the Complexities of 'Gum': A Teen Drama

On October 16, the Premier platform launched its newest Russian series titled "Gum". This eight-episode teen drama, directed by Alexander Tsoy, invites viewers into the tumultuous world of adolescent struggles, betrayal, and intricate relationships.

Essential Information About the Project

• Genre: Drama, Teen Film
• Director: Alexander Tsoy
• Number of Episodes: 8
• Duration of Each Episode: 45-50 Minutes
• Production Origin: Russia
• Age Rating: 18+

"Gum" portrays the reality of teenagers, filled with grand dreams, conflicts, and reckless decisions that often lead to unforeseen consequences.

The Plot Unveiled

The narrative centers around Galiya Shalamova, an orphan girl with aspirations to enter the scriptwriting department at VGIK. Galiya longs for the liberation from the oppressive confines of the orphanage. Her life takes a dramatic turn after she watches a live stream of the eccentric blogger Hans Schmues, who makes outrageous statements solely for the sake of popularity. Galiya feels an undeniable connection with Hans, convinced that they share a kindred spirit.

A chance encounter leads to a budding romance, but what Galiya perceives as her first love is merely a fleeting whim for Hans. He soon becomes disenchanted with Galiya and opts for an absurd method to end the relationship: he asks his buddies to inform her that he has met his fate.

Determined not to accept this bizarre breakup, Galiya embarks on her own "investigation" into Hans’s supposed demise, hoping to uncover the truth and hold those accountable for her heartbreak.

Character Insights

Galiya Shalamova (Played by Daria Balabanova)
An innocent orphan whose world has been shaped by harsh realities. Galiya dreams of becoming a scriptwriter but is haunted by her tumultuous past, including an incarcerated mother and a violent boyfriend from whom she struggles to escape.

Hans Schmues (Portrayed by Anton Rogachev)
A blogger with 5,000 followers, Hans is willing to engage in absurd antics for likes and attention. Representing the archetype of a privileged youth, he has a producer father and receives little parental guidance while navigating life with a seriously ill younger sister.

Kirill (Played by Anton Artemyev)
Galiya's rough and irrational boyfriend, who resolves issues through violence. He survives through criminal activities and dreams of wealth abroad.

Misha Yelchev (Portrayed by Pavel Maslakov)
Hans’s friend, who stands out in the group for his humane attitude towards Galiya.

Vera (Played by Marusya Furina)
Another friend of Hans, harboring feelings for him but resigned to the reality that he is not interested in a serious relationship.

Impressions of the Series

Storyline and Genre

The plot serves as a blend of teenage drama and a satirical reflection on modern society. It delves into the realms of first love, brutality, misunderstandings, and senseless actions. The characters display an infantile demeanor, often appearing illogical, which highlights their youth and inexperience.

As the story unfolds, its pace becomes lethargic, causing viewers’ interest to wane. The first episode sets an invigorating tempo; thereafter, the momentum considerably dissipates.

Characters and Atmosphere

One of the series' primary drawbacks is its characters. None resonate with the audience. Galiya comes off as excessively naive, while Hans possesses a cynical air. The supporting cast either seems caricatured or plays a minimal role.

Acting Performances

Despite a lackluster script, the cast strives to deliver commendable performances. Daria Balabanova and Anton Rogachev, known from other projects, manage to provide satisfactory portrayals in their leading roles.

Visual Composition

Visually, the series impresses with its aesthetics. The cinematography effectively captures the essence of each scene, showcasing a variety of locations—from shopping centers and apartments to streets and abandoned buildings.

Closure

"Gum" is a show that is likely to attract a teenage demographic, but it may not hold the interest of adult viewers. With its simplistic storyline, unlikable characters, and questionable dramatic techniques, the series evokes mixed feelings. For those who enjoy light dramas with straightforward conflicts, this might be an engaging watch. Conversely, if you seek profound and compelling narratives, "Gum" may not deliver the enlightenment you desire.

Would I recommend this series? Generally speaking, no. There are far too many downsides to advocate for spending time on it.