Exploring 90s Nostalgia: A Look at Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!
Why "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" Reflects the 90s and Our Own "Stranger Things"
Contemporary television often reaches back into the past, crafting series that ignite nostalgia while helping us reevaluate bygone eras. The series by Ilya Aksenov, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!", serves as an exemplary case in this regard, sparking comparisons to the American hit "Stranger Things" but firmly rooted in the Russian landscape. In this article, we will explore how this project, through the lens of 90s nostalgia, narrates the coming-of-age story of a generation forged in the aftermath of the USSR's dissolution.
Where Does Nostalgia Come From?
For millennials, the 90s evoke the tumultuous shift from Soviet stability to unrestrained capitalism. This era was marked not only by economic instability but also by a vibrant cultural renaissance. The appeal of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" lies in its capacity to depict this period through the eyes of teenagers who navigate the city rooftops, bustling markets, and the world of VHS tapes.
While "Stranger Things" captures the essence of 80s America, its Russian counterpart showcases the unique complexities of the 90s, a time characterized by both newfound freedoms and unsettling chaos. This duality permeates every facet of the series, from its sets and soundtrack to its story arcs.
Storyline: Teen Adventures Within a Criminal Realism
At the heart of the series lies a quartet of teenagers: Sanka, Vovka, Ilya, and Zhenya. Their group, dubbed "The Brotherhood of the Roof", finds itself embroiled in conflicts that embody the spirit of the time. On one hand, they grapple with rival street gangs; on the other, they get tangled in the broader clash between two criminal factions: veterans of the Afghan War and the Caucasian mafia. This narrative approach allows viewers to experience the essence of the 90s, seen through the untainted perspective of youth, devoid of adult cynicism.
Particularly intriguing is how these teens, amidst external turmoil, also strive to navigate their emotional lives and familial relationships. For instance, Sanka’s mother struggles to keep the household running while wrestling with memories of a tough marriage, his grandfather promotes a cult of strength, and his father, a timid writer, is unable to confront the challenges of their era.
Inspiration from the Past
The similarities to "Stranger Things" are striking: a group of friends facing dangers that immerse viewers in a specific historical context. However, where "Stranger Things" dives into the realm of fantasy, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" presents tangible threats familiar to its post-Soviet audience. Gone are the monsters from alternate worlds; here, we confront the wolves and bulls of the criminal underbelly—elements that encapsulate the criminal allure of that time.
The visual storytelling of the series also deserves a shout-out. Flashbacks are cleverly presented as if fast-forwarding through a videotape, while the conflict scenes are shot in long, unbroken takes, enhancing the viewer's sense of involvement. A particularly memorable sequence involves the destruction of a market, resonating with a similar moment in the film "Bull".
The Culture of the 90s in Detail
The show meticulously captures the aesthetics of its time through its visuals and props:
- Flea Markets: From boiled jeans to baseball caps emblazoned with "USA California".
- Pop Culture: Walls adorned with posters of Sylvester Stallone and scenes from the movie "Kickboxer".
- Gaming Nostalgia: The Dendy gaming console features prominently, where characters engage in "Street Fighter", highlighting the popularity of pirated Western products.
Musically, it balances the hits of the era (Dr. Alban, Irina Allegrova, Haddaway) with contemporary reinterpretations of classic tracks, such as Sirotkin's cover of "Breath" by Nautilus Pompilius.
Gender Roles and Toxic Masculinity
Interestingly, despite the presence of strong female characters like Zhenya, Sanka's mother, and Alyk's girlfriend, the series still reflects a patriarchal culture. Women are frequently depicted as having to fight for their place within this tumultuous environment, often clashing with men who live by the outdated laws of the "wild 90s". However, these female portrayals lend depth to the narrative, reminding us that the tides of change affected everyone during this transformative era.
Why is "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" Important?
This series not only masterfully recreates the 90s atmosphere but also reinterprets it through today’s realities. It represents a blend of entertainment and cultural exploration, shedding light on how the millennial generation, shaped amid chaos, formed its own set of values.
Moreover, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" fosters a dialogue between the past and the present, akin to the best works that bridge generations of viewers together.