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

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

In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary television, there’s a marked trend of reaching back into the annals of history to craft series that not only tug at the heartstrings of nostalgia but also prompt a reevaluation of bygone eras. Ilya Aksenov's series, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!", serves as a vivid illustration of this artistic approach, drawing parallels with the iconic American series "Stranger Things." Unlike its American counterpart, however, this production hones in on the unique realities of Russia's tumultuous past. This article delves into how Aksenov's creation captures the essence of the 90s, mirroring the backdrop of a generation molded from the remnants of the USSR.

The Genesis of Nostalgia

For millennials, the 90s are synonymous with a frenetic transition from the reliable stability of the Soviet era to the unpredictable whirlwind of capitalism. This decade wasn't merely marked by economic uncertainty; it was also a period of extraordinary cultural flourishing. The allure of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" lies in its capacity to present this epoch through the fresh perspective of teenagers who navigate their lives among towering buildings, bustling marketplaces, and the flickering glow of VHS tapes.

While "Stranger Things" immerses viewers in the nostalgic embrace of the 1980s, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" sheds light on the Russian 90s—an era that encapsulated both the exhilarating taste of newfound freedom and the disarray that often accompanied it. This duality permeates every aspect of the series, from the intricacy of its sets and musical choices to the nuanced threads of its narrative arcs.

The Narrative: Adventures of Teens in a Lawless Landscape

At the heart of the narrative are four teenagers: Sanya, Vovka, Ilya, and Zhenya. Collectively known as the "Roof Brotherhood," their camaraderie thrusts them into a world rife with conflicts that mirror the spirit of their times. On one front, they grapple with rival local bullies; on another, they become embroiled in a power struggle between two criminal factions—one comprising veterans from the Afghan war and the other representing the Caucasian mafia. This layered storyline invites audiences to experience the chaotic atmosphere of the 90s, refracted through the lens of youthful emotions, free from the cynicism often seen in adult perspectives.

A particularly compelling element lies in how the adolescents navigate not only external dangers but also their complex internal landscapes, striving to comprehend their feelings and their relationships with parental figures. For instance, Sanya's mother juggles household responsibilities while grappling with haunting memories of a strained marriage. Concurrently, Sanya's grandfather champions a culture of brute strength, while his father—a frail writer—finds himself ill-equipped to confront the challenges of a society in flux.

Echoes of the Past

The parallels to "Stranger Things" are hard to ignore: a group of friends banding together against formidable odds, drawing viewers into the rich tapestry of a specific era. Yet, unlike the fantastical elements that define "Stranger Things," "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" immerses audiences in very real and relatable threats that resonate with the post-Soviet viewer. Instead of creatures from alternate dimensions, the series vividly portrays the menacing figures of local gangsters, known as "wolves" and "bulls," who embody the era's criminal allure.

The visual storytelling within the series also warrants attention. Flashbacks are executed in a style reminiscent of rewinding a video cassette, while conflict scenes are captured in long, unbroken takes, enhancing the feeling of being a part of the action. One particularly unforgettable moment is the show’s depiction of the market riots, echoing a similar sequence in the film "Bull."

Capturing the Culture of the 90s

The attention to detail in recreating the aesthetics of the 90s is striking:

• Flea Markets: The bustling scenes showcase items like boiled jeans and baseball caps emblazoned with the words "USA California."
• Pop Culture: The walls of the characters’ homes are adorned with posters of Sylvester Stallone and clips from the film "Kickboxer," reflecting the cultural zeitgeist.
• Gaming Nostalgia: The Dendy gaming console, where the characters engage in fierce battles of "Street Fighter," highlights the widespread appeal of pirated Western products in the region.

The soundtrack is a melodic journey through the decade, blending iconic hits (embracing artists like Dr. Alban, Irina Allegrova, and Haddaway) with modern reinterpretations, such as Sirotkin’s cover of "Breath" by Nautilus Pompilius.

Gender Dynamics and Toxic Masculinity

It’s intriguing to note that, despite the presence of strong female characters—such as Zhenya, Sanya's mother, and Alika's girlfriend—the series remains a reflection of a patriarchal society. Women find themselves vying for their rightful place in a world marked by the lingering effects of the "wild 90s." Yet, these female characters enrich the narrative, underscoring that the era of change impacted everyone, regardless of gender.

The Significance of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!"

This series does more than just replicate the atmosphere of the 90s; it reframes it through the lens of contemporary society. It serves as both an entertaining spectacle and a cultural examination, revealing how the millennial generation, raised amidst chaos, forged its own set of values.

Moreover, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" facilitates a dialogue between the past and the present, bridging the gap between generations, akin to the finest storytelling that unites viewers across various age groups.