Exploring the 90s Through Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!

Why "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" Reflects the 90s and Our Experience of "Stranger Things"

Contemporary television often takes a stroll down memory lane, crafting series that not only stir nostalgia but also encourage a re-evaluation of past eras. The series by Ilya Aksenov, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!", serves as a vivid illustration of this phenomenon, drawing parallels with the American sensation "Stranger Things" but with a distinct focus on Russian realities. In this exploration, we will delve into how the project, viewed through the lens of 90s romanticism, narrates the coming-of-age story of a generation sculpted from the ruins of the USSR.

Where Does Nostalgia Come From?

For millennials, the 90s evoke a whirlwind of images associated with the tumultuous transition from Soviet stability to rampant capitalism. This decade, marked by economic fluctuations, also birthed a remarkable cultural renaissance. The allure of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" lies in its ability to present this period through the eyes of teenagers navigating life amidst the roofs of high-rises, bustling markets, and clunky VHS tapes.

While "Stranger Things" immerses audiences in the iconic 80s of America, this show transports viewers to the distinctly chaotic and yet liberating 90s of Russia. The balance between freedom and disorder resonates throughout every aspect of the series, from its set designs and soundtrack to the intricate storylines woven within.

Plot: Adventures of Teenagers in a Criminal Reality

At the heart of the narrative are four teenagers: Sanyka, Vovka, Ilya, and Zhenya. This group, dubbed the “Brotherhood of the Roof,” finds itself embroiled in conflicts that encapsulate the spirit of the times. They grapple with rival local thugs while simultaneously navigating the power struggles between two criminal factions: veterans from the Afghan war and the Caucasian mafia. This storyline offers a unique glimpse into the atmosphere of the 90s, seen through the unfiltered lens of adolescent experiences, untouched by the cynicism of adulthood.

Furthermore, as they confront external challenges, these teens are also compelled to dissect their feelings and familial relationships. For instance, Sanyka's mother juggles managing a household while wrestling with memories of a troubled marriage, while his grandfather promotes a cult of strength. Meanwhile, his father, a timid writer, finds himself ill-equipped to face the seismic shifts of the era.

Inspiration from the Past

The comparisons to "Stranger Things" are compellingly evident: a crew of friends grappling with dangers, immersing viewers in a palpable sense of time. However, instead of fantastical elements, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" presents tangible threats familiar to a post-Soviet audience. Abundant are the real foes—"wolves" and "bulls"—representing gangsters whose portrayals capture the criminal allure of that time.

Visual storytelling also stands out in this series. Flashbacks are depicted like rewinding video cassettes, and conflict scenes are shot in lengthy, uninterrupted takes that enhance the feeling of immersion. One particularly memorable scene features the chaotic dismantling of a market, reminiscent of a similar moment in the film "Bull."

The Culture of the 90s in Detail

The series' decor and props meticulously convey the aesthetics of the era:

• Flea Markets: with items like boiled jeans and caps emblazoned with "USA California."
• Pop Culture: walls adorned with posters of Sylvester Stallone and clips from "Kickboxer" showcase the period's cinematic influence.
• Dendy Game Console: the characters engage in "Street Fighter" on this console, highlighting the popularity of pirated Western products.

The soundtrack seamlessly merges era-defining hits (Dr. Alban, Irina Allegrova, Haddaway) with modern reinterpretations, such as Sirotkin's cover of "Breathing" by Nautilus Pompilius.

Gender and Toxic Masculinity

Interestingly, despite strong female characters like Zhenya, Sanyka's mother, and Alik’s girlfriend, the series reflects a patriarchal culture. Women are depicted as fighting for their place in a world still bound by the rules of the “wild 90s.” Nevertheless, the portrayal of female figures adds substantial depth to the narrative, underscoring that the era of change affected everyone, regardless of gender.

Why Is "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" Important?

This series is not merely a nostalgia trip but a masterful reconstruction of the 90s, reinterpreted through the lens of contemporary society. It serves as both an entertaining spectacle and a cultural analysis that reveals how millennials, molded by the chaos of their formative years, constructed their values.

Moreover, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" creates a dialogue between the past and present. Much like the finest works of art, it bridges generations of viewers, fostering a shared understanding of a time that shaped multiple lives.