Exploring the Dark Themes of the Series Gum

The youth series "Gum" continues to spark debates among viewers. Some perceive it as an earnest attempt to showcase the harsh realities faced by today’s teens, while others dismiss it as a tedious, disjointed drama where neither the characters nor their actions draw any affection. Opinions are polarized, but one thing is certain: indifference toward this project is virtually non-existent.

Characters That Evoke Mixed Emotions

At the heart of the series lies the character Galia Shalamova — an innocent girl caught up in a whirlwind of events instigated by those around her.

• Sympathy and Empathy: A segment of the audience genuinely feels for her plight. For instance, Vladimir shares, "Poor Galia, I feel so sorry for her." For many, she embodies the fragility of human spirit in the face of a cruel world.
• Criticism and Frustration: Conversely, another faction of viewers dissect her behavior harshly. Maria points out, "This Galia is, to put it mildly, not the brightest. I would even call her daft and infuriating."

This contradictory perception potentially aligns with the creators' intentions: Galia is not meant to be a flawless protagonist; her flaws and missteps flesh out her realism, making her relatable.

Intricate Plots and an Atmosphere of Cruelty

"Gum" weaves narratives around intense subjects such as bullying, abuse, toxic relationships, and stalking. The tension between Galia and Roma escalates with every episode, climaxing with a contrived death of a blogger that becomes the series' central enigma.

A Harsh Adolescent World

The series casts a critical eye on Galia's surroundings. Roma and his affluent friends embody young individuals devoid of moral anchors. Their ruthless 'games' with Galia reflect a brutal dynamic that Ariana notes appears "inevitable," considering the adults in the narrative lack wisdom as well.

Space for Critique

The storyline brims with moments that raise eyebrows:

• Musical Score: Boris criticizes the soundtrack, exclaiming, "It makes my ears bleed, I have to fast forward through it!"
• Character Actions: Many express frustration over Galia’s susceptibility to manipulation. Pasha quips sarcastically, "The main character's nickname truly suits her."

Cast and Direction

Fresh Faces

Viewers have noted that the cast offers a refreshing change, featuring young actors who have yet to become overexposed on screens. This freshness gives the series an edge; characters are seen as authentic individuals rather than stereotypes tied to familiar celebrities.

Direction and Atmosphere

Directed by Alexander Tsui, known for his work on “Difficult Teens,” "Gum" delves deeper into themes of adolescent rebellion and cruelty, crafting a somber, tense atmosphere. However, some viewers critique the series for lacking bold innovation, remarking that elements presented here have already graced past teenage dramas.

Reasons to Watch or Skip "Gum"

Pros

• Authenticity: The series candidly explores contemporary teen issues without sugarcoating the difficulties.
• Engaging Plot: Intriguing twists and turns keep viewers on their toes.
• Harsh Morality: "Gum" serves as a backdrop warning about the consequences of thoughtless decisions.

Cons

• Clichés and Tropes: Numerous scenes feel like carbon copies of those seen in previous works.
• Lack of Depth: As Ariana observes, the themes are pronounced but not fully explored.
• Annoying Characters: Most of the characters fail to endear themselves, complicating emotional investment for the audience.

The series "Gum" is undeniably a contentious but thoroughly discussable work. It addresses pressing social issues while inviting viewers into a dark realm of youthful cruelty. However, the chaotic script and irrational character choices often leave a jumbled impression.

For those open to rugged, uneven narratives, "Gum" might just resonate with them. For others, however, it could serve as a "bitter pill for naivety," a lesson not everyone is prepared to digest.