Exploring the 90s: World, Friendship, and Chewing Gum
The series by Ilya Aksenov, "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!", recently unveiled on the streaming platform Premier, is far more than a mere tale of growing up in the 1990s. It serves as an immersive exploration of a unique period in Russian history, filtering the complexities of adolescence through the lens of life in a small provincial town. This project weaves together nostalgia, tragedy, and humor, forming a rich and textured tapestry that encapsulates the era of initial capital accumulation.
Teenage Life Amidst Social Change
Set against the backdrop of 1993 in the Tula region, the narrative follows a group of high school friends: Sanka, Vovka, Ilya, and the fiery-haired Zhenya. Their days slip away in the shadows of garages and atop apartment buildings, as they dream about the future while grappling with typical teenage dilemmas. From raging hormones and abandoned musical aspirations to the sweet pangs of first love, these experiences intertwine with the harsh realities faced by their families and communities.
Sanka's family exemplifies how different generations cope with upheaval. His mother sells Turkish textiles at the market, while his father, a university lecturer, finds himself lost in the whirlwind of social transformation. Another vivid character is Uncle Alik, a veteran of the Afghan war, haunted by post-traumatic stress disorder. His nightly battles with reckless impulses and poignant scenes of being handcuffed to a radiator serve as a symbolic metaphor for a nation wrestling with its inner demons.
From Adolescence to National Maturity
A standout feature of the series is the parallel drawn between the characters' personal growth and the broader "maturation" of Russia itself. The 1990s, an era marked by the harsh realities of initial capital accumulation, are portrayed not through the lens of typical gangland glamour or romantic narratives, but rather through dusty courtyards, abandoned factories, and the charming oblivion of youth.
This approach sets Aksenov's work apart from other cinematic portrayals of the 90s, such as Kantemir Balagov's "Tightness" or Boris Akopov's "Bull". How refreshing it is to witness a narrative that does not indulge in excessive dramatization or seek to romanticize those tumultuous years. Instead, it offers an honest, fresh perspective, reminding us that even in the face of societal calamities, teenagers will always remain teenagers, chasing dreams and navigating life’s complexities.
Cinematic Style and Actor Performances
Ilya Aksenov, known for his work in the guerrilla cinema genre and independent projects, continues to embrace his unique artistic vision. In "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!", he prioritizes the authenticity of performance and character dynamics over flashy visual effects. Yet, the cinematography of Alexei Filippov deserves special recognition; his expansive shots that capture the untamed beauty of provincial Russia create a striking parallel to the Wild West.
Among the standout performances is Stepan Devonin as Sanka's father, an intellectually-inclined teacher penning an unrecognized novel while also having to sell goods at the market alongside his wife. His character evokes genuine empathy and respect. Yuri Borisov, as Uncle Alik, and Nikita Pavlenko also deliver remarkable portrayals, showcasing the depth of their characters with poignant intricacy.
A Teenage Era of Violence and Dreams
The title of the series might initially appear to suggest a light-hearted romp. Yet, "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" delves into a teenage era where fear intertwines with discovery. In the very first episode, a black BMW emerges as a symbol of the time—a manifestation of violence and the criminal underbelly. Nevertheless, the series brilliantly navigates the delicate line between dark comedy, drama, and the coming-of-age narrative, allowing viewers to derive their own interpretations from the unfolding storylines.
Culmination
"World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" transcends being just another series about the 90s; it stands as a nuanced and profound work that intricately depicts the nation during its most significant transformations through the lens of youthful experiences. By intertwining tragedy, humor, and nostalgia, Ilya Aksenov crafts a piece that entertains, moves, and provokes thoughtful contemplation about the inevitable pain and revelations intertwined with both personal and societal growth.