Exploring 90s Nostalgia in 'Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!'

Contemporary television often takes a jaunt down memory lane, crafting series that evoke nostalgia while inviting us to reinterpret bygone eras. Ilya Aksenov's series "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" serves as a poignant reflection of this approach—and unexpectedly finds its counterpart in the celebrated American series "Stranger Things." However, the Russian series shines a spotlight on the unique realities of its homeland. In this piece, we will delve into how this series, through the lens of 90s romanticism, narrates the coming-of-age tale of a generation that emerged from the wreckage of the Soviet Union.

Unraveling the Roots of Nostalgia

For millennials, the 90s conjure up images of a turbulent transition from the staid Soviet society to the wild fervor of capitalism. It was an era beset by economic flux yet equally marked by a vibrant cultural renaissance. The allure of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" lies in its ability to present this complex period through the eyes of adolescents who navigate life amidst rooftops, bustling markets, and VHS tapes.

Whereas "Stranger Things" casts its spotlight on the American 80s, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" transports viewers to the chaotic yet liberating landscape of the 90s. This delicate balance of freedom and disorder permeates every aspect of the series, from its elaborate set designs to the evocative soundtrack and engaging plotlines.

Plot: Teenage Adventures in a Criminal World

At the heart of the series are four teenagers: Sanya, Vovka, Ilya, and Zhenya. This group, dubbed the "Brotherhood of the Rooftop," becomes embroiled in conflicts that mirror the spirit of the time. On one hand, they face off against local bullies; on the other, they find themselves caught in the crossfire between rival criminal factions—the war veterans of Afghanistan and the Caucasian mafia. This narrative thread offers a glimpse into the atmosphere of the 90s through the often naïve emotional experiences of teens, devoid of the cynicism that adults might carry.

Particularly striking is how these youngsters grapple with not only external conflicts but also their evolving feelings and fractured relationships with their parents. For instance, Sanya's mother juggles the chaos of home life with haunting memories of a troubled marriage, while his grandfather glorifies physical strength. Meanwhile, Sanya’s father, a timid writer, struggles to rise to the challenges of the era.

Inspiration from the Past

The parallels with "Stranger Things" are unmistakable: a squad of friends banding together against a backdrop of danger immerses viewers in an era marked by its unique trials. However, instead of fantastical elements, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" presents very real threats that resonate with post-Soviet audiences. Here, there are no monsters from alternate dimensions; instead, we encounter street thugs and gangsters—figures that embody the criminal allure of the times.

The series employs innovative visual techniques. Flashbacks are stylized as rewound video tapes, while scenes of conflict unfold through long, unyielding takes that enhance the immersive experience. A particularly striking scene features a market raid, echoing a similar moment from the film "The Bull."

The Culture of the 90s Captured in Detail

The careful curation of the series’ aesthetics is worthy of acknowledgment:

• Flea Markets: A riot of style with boiled jeans and baseball caps emblazoned with "USA California."
• Pop Culture: Walls adorned with posters of Sylvester Stallone and snapshots from the movie "Kickboxer."
• Gaming Nostalgia: The characters engage in fervent matches on a Dendy console, challenging each other in "Street Fighter," embodying the trend of pirated Western games.

Musically, the series strikes a harmonious balance, blending era-defining hits (Dr. Alban, Irina Allegrova, Haddaway) with contemporary reimaginations, such as Sirotkin’s cover of "Breath" originally by Nautilus Pompilius.

Gender Dynamics and Toxic Masculinity

Interestingly, despite the presence of strong female characters like Zhenya, Sanya's mother, and Alika's girlfriend, the series remains reflective of a patriarchal culture. Women are often compelled to fight for their place within this society, frequently through confrontations with men who steadfastly adhere to the codes of the "wild 90s." Nonetheless, the female characters provide depth to the narrative, reminding us that this era of transformation impacted everyone.

Why "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" Matters

This series not only masterfully recreates the vibe of the 90s but also reassesses it through a modern lens. It operates as both an entertainment vehicle and a cultural exploration, illustrating how a generation of millennials, raised amidst chaos, constructed their values and beliefs.

Moreover, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" establishes a dialogue between the past and the present, akin to the finest creative works, fostering connections between viewers of differing generations.