Exploring the Impact of Chewing Gum on Youth Culture

The teen drama series "Chewing Gum" continues to ignite heated debates among viewers. Some see it as a candid reflection on the harsh realities faced by today’s youth, while others perceive it as a tedious and disjointed narrative, with neither the characters nor their actions resonating positively. Opinions are undoubtedly divided, yet it's clear that the project elicits strong feelings, leaving no one indifferent.

Characters That Evoke Mixed Emotions

At the heart of this series is Galia Shalamova—a naive girl who finds herself ensnared in a web of events instigated by her peers.

• Sympathy and Empathy: A segment of the audience genuinely empathizes with her struggle. For instance, Vladimir states, "Poor Galia, I really feel for her." To many viewers, she symbolizes vulnerability in the face of a cruel world.
• Criticism and Frustration: Conversely, there is a faction of the audience that critiques her behavior harshly. Maria comments, "That Galia, to put it mildly, is rather dim. I’d even go as far as to call her annoying."

This dichotomy in viewer perception might be exactly what the creators intended; Galia isn’t meant to be perfect. Her flaws and missteps render her a relatable character, making her more human.

Complex Plot Twists and an Atmosphere of Cruelty

"Chewing Gum" delves into intense themes: bullying, abuse, toxic relationships, and stalking. The dynamic between Galia and Roma escalates with each episode, and a fabricated death of a blogger becomes a pivotal plot twist.

A Harsh Teen World

Significant focus is dedicated to Galia’s social circle. Roma and his affluent peers lack moral bearings, showcasing a brand of cruelty through their interactions with Galia. Their "games" illustrate a brutality that, as Ariana points out, feels "inevitable," particularly considering the adults in the series exhibit a similar lack of wisdom.

Room for Critique

The storyline is replete with moments that invite scrutiny:

• Soundtrack Criticism: Boris remarks, "The music is unbearable; it makes my ears bleed, I have to fast-forward."
• Character Behavior: Many find it irritating how easily Galia succumbs to manipulation. Pasha sarcastically observes, "The protagonist’s nickname fits her perfectly."

Cast and Direction

Fresh Faces

Viewers appreciate the refreshing assortment of actors—a youthful ensemble that has yet to become ubiquitous on screens. This casting choice grants the series an advantage: characters come across as genuine individuals, rather than mere personas attached to well-known stars.

Direction and Tone

Directed by Alexander Tsui, famed for his work on "Difficult Teens," the series pursues themes of adolescent rebellion and brutality, crafting a dark and tense ambiance. However, audiences note that "Chewing Gum" lacks standout innovative elements, as many aspects have been explored in prior teen dramas.

Reasons to Watch or Skip "Chewing Gum"

Pros

• Authenticity: The series portrays contemporary youth challenges candidly, without sugarcoating.
• Engaging Plot: Twists and unexpected developments keep viewers on their toes.
• Harsh Morality: "Chewing Gum" serves as a cautionary tale about the repercussions of reckless behavior.

Cons

• Clichés: Numerous scenes seem recycled from other media narratives.
• Lack of Depth: As Ariana points out, while themes are boldly stated, they remain largely undeveloped.
• Unlikable Characters: The majority of characters fail to inspire empathy, making emotional engagement a challenge.

The series "Chewing Gum" is a controversial yet undeniably thought-provoking project. It tackles pressing issues and invites viewers into the bleak realm of adolescent cruelty. However, its chaotic script and illogical character actions leave audiences with mixed feelings.

For those prepared for gritty and uneven storytelling, "Chewing Gum" may find a place in their hearts. For others, it might merely serve as a "pill against naivety," something many may be reluctant to swallow.