Exploring 'Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!' and the 90s
How "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" Reflects the 90s and Our "Stranger Things"
In the ever-evolving landscape of modern television, there's a notable trend: creators are digging into the past, crafting series that not only evoke nostalgia but also encourage us to rethink bygone eras. One standout example of this is the show "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" directed by Ilya Aksenov. This series draws intriguing parallels with the American phenomenon "Stranger Things," yet it distinctly shines a light on the authentic intricacies of Russian culture. In this exploration, we’re going to delve into how this project mirrors the dreamy escapism of the 90s while portraying a generation forged amidst the ruins of the USSR.
The Source of Nostalgia: A Journey to the 90s
For millennials, the 1990s are a kaleidoscope of images representing a tumultuous shift from the stability of the Soviet era to the chaotic embrace of rampant capitalism. This decade was marked not only by economic turbulence but also by a remarkable cultural renaissance. What makes "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" incredibly appealing is its unique perspective on this period, seen through the eyes of teenagers navigating the urban landscape filled with rooftops, bustling markets, and the flickering light of VHS tapes.
While "Stranger Things" transports viewers back to the iconic 1980s in America, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" encapsulates the essence of the Russian 90s—an era characterized by a blend of liberation and chaos. This juxtaposition reverberates throughout every facet of the show, from its crafted sets and thematic music to its intricate plotlines.
The Plot: Youthful Adventures Amidst a Criminal Landscape
At the heart of the story is a group of four teenagers: Sanyka, Vovka, Ilya, and Zhenya. Referred to as the "Brotherhood of the Rooftop," they become enmeshed in conflicts that reflect the zeitgeist of their time. On one hand, they face rival gangs; on the other, they find themselves at odds between two powerful criminal factions—the Afghan veterans and the Caucasian mafia. Such story arcs allow viewers to see the 90s atmosphere through the lens of youth, stripped of the hardened cynicism often associated with adulthood.
An especially compelling aspect of the narrative is the parallel journey where these teens grapple with their emotions and relationships with their parents. For instance, Sanyka's mother is tasked with managing their household while wrestling with the ghosts of her troubled marriage. Sanyka's grandfather glorifies physical strength, contrasting sharply with his son—Sanyka's father—who, as a writer, appears unable to rise to the challenges of their times.
Inspiration from the Past: A Tale Rooted in Reality
The comparisons to "Stranger Things" are undeniable; both shows feature a band of friends who confront formidable threats, immersing viewers in their respective historical atmospheres. Yet, instead of fantastical elements, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" exposes audiences to very real dangers familiar to the post-Soviet populace. Here, there are no monsters from alternate dimensions; instead, we encounter "wolves" and "bulls"—the criminals whose portrayals encapsulate the romanticized underworld of that era.
Moreover, the show’s visual style is noteworthy. Flashbacks are presented through the aesthetic of rewinding a VHS tape, while conflict scenes are crafted using long, uninterrupted takes that foster an immersive experience. Particularly striking is a scene depicting the destruction of a marketplace, reminiscent of a similar moment captured in the film "Bull."
The Culture of the 90s: Details that Matter
The series meticulously recreates the very essence of the 90s through its production design and props:
- Street Markets: Featuring boiled jeans and baseball caps emblazoned with "USA California."
- Pop Culture: Posters of Sylvester Stallone and scenes from "Kickboxer" adorn the characters’ walls.
- Gaming: The Dendy gaming console, with the characters engrossed in "Street Fighter," highlights the popularity of pirated copies of Western media.
Musically, the series blends the hits of the era (like Dr. Alban, Irina Allegrova, and Haddaway) with contemporary reinterpretations (for example, Syrotkin's rendition of "Breath" by Nautilus Pompilius).
Gender Dynamics and Toxic Masculinity
What’s intriguing is that, despite the presence of strong female characters—like Zhenya, Sanyka’s mother, and Alika’s girlfriend—the series mirrors a patriarchal culture. Women often find themselves striving to claim their space in a world dominated by men who still abide by the rules of the "wild 90s." Nevertheless, these female portrayals enrich the narrative, a poignant reminder that the tumultuous period affected everyone in its wake.
Why "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" Holds Significance
This series not only adeptly reconstructs the atmosphere of the 90s but also reframes it through today’s perspective. It operates on two levels—entertainment and cultural exploration—demonstrating how a generation of millennials, raised amidst chaos, forged its own values from the entropy surrounding them.
Furthermore, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" creates a dialogue between the past and the present, much like the finest literary works that connect viewers across various generations. It’s a reflection on how nostalgia interlaces with contemporary story-telling, creating a timeless experience.