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

In today’s television landscape, the past emerges as a rich vein to mine, with series often evoking nostalgia while simultaneously inviting us to re-examine pivotal eras. One shining example of this phenomenon is Ilya Aksenov's series "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" which not only calls to mind the American blockbuster "Stranger Things" but does so with a distinct lens focused on Russian realities. This article will delve into how the project, through the romantic filters of the 90s, unfolds the story of a generation shaped in the aftermath of the USSR’s collapse.

What Fuels Nostalgia?

For Millennials, the 1990s conjure images of a tumultuous leap from Soviet rigidity to wild capitalism. This decade was marked not only by economic upheaval but also by a remarkable cultural explosion. The appeal of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" lies in its ability to provide a window into this era through the eyes of teenagers navigating the urban tapestry of rooftop hangouts, bustling markets, and VHS tapes.

While "Stranger Things" immerses its audience in the heart of 80s America, this series transports viewers into the chaotic charm of the 90s in Russia—an era characterized by both newfound freedoms and pervasive disorder. This duality permeates every facet of the show—from the richly detailed set designs to the carefully curated soundtracks and compelling narrative arcs.

Plot: Adolescent Adventures in a Criminal Landscape

At the heart of the story are four teens: Sanya, Vovka, Ilya, and Zhenya. This group, dubbed the "Brotherhood of Roofs," finds themselves embroiled in conflicts that encapsulate the spirit of their times. Their challenges range from skirmishes with local bullies to engagement with two rival criminal factions—the Afghan veterans and the Caucasian mob. This narrative avenue offers a glimpse into the 90s ambiance through the prism of youthful experiences, unclouded by the cynicism of adulthood.

An interesting subplot intertwines with external conflicts, exploring how these teens grapple with their emotions and family dynamics. For instance, Sanya’s mother strives to maintain household stability while confronting memories of a tumultuous marriage; her grandfather touts traditional masculine ideals, while her father, a weak-willed writer, falters in the face of societal challenges.

Echoes of the Past

The comparisons with "Stranger Things" are clear: a tight-knit group of friends battles various threats, immersing the viewer in a specific historical context. However, instead of delving into fantasy realms, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" presents real-world dangers that resonate profoundly with a post-Soviet audience. Here, monstrous entities don’t emerge from alternate dimensions; the threats come from gritty street gangs—the "wolves" and "bulls"—whose images encapsulate the era’s criminal allure.

The show's visual choices are commendable as well. Flashbacks resonate with the aesthetic of rewinding a video cassette, while intense confrontations are captured in extended, unbroken takes that immerse the audience in the action. A particularly striking scene of a marketplace being ransacked harks back to a memorable moment in the film "Bull" as well.

The Culture of the 90s in Fine Detail

The series’ set design and props meticulously convey the era's aesthetics:

• Flea Markets: Denim jackets, snapbacks emblazoned with “USA California.”
• Pop Culture: Posters of Sylvester Stallone and stills from the movie "Kickboxer" adorn the characters’ walls.
• Dendy Gaming Console: The characters engage in battles on "Street Fighter," spotlighting the popularity of pirated copies of Western media.

In terms of soundtrack, the series seamlessly blends iconic hits of the era, including Dr. Alban, Irina Allegrova, and Haddaway, with contemporary covers that breathe new life into classics—for example, Sirotkin’s rendition of “Breath” originally by Nautilus Pompilius.

Gender and Toxic Masculinity

Intriguingly, even though strong female characters like Zhenya, Sanya’s mother, and Alica's girlfriend take center stage, the show remains reflective of a patriarchal society. Women are frequently depicted as fighting for their place in this fiercely competitive world, often in conflict with men still abiding by the "wild 90s" ethos. Nevertheless, these female portrayals enrich the narrative, reminding viewers that the era of change affected everyone.

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

This series masterfully reconstructs the 90s atmosphere while reinterpreting it through the lens of contemporary society. It functions both as an entertainment vehicle and a cultural exploration, illustrating how a generation born in chaos forged its values.

Furthermore, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" serves as a dialogue between past and present, reminiscent of the finest artistic endeavors that unite audiences across generations.