Exploring the 1990s in Russia: Culture and Struggles

The 1990s: An Era That Left an Indelible Mark

The 1990s in Russia were a tumultuous decade that etched a deep imprint in the minds and souls of an entire generation. For those who lived through this time, the challenges were not just numerous; they were often insurmountable. Artistic explorations of this decade rarely shy away from themes of pain, loss, and acute memories. Yet, amidst these grim realities, there existed a realm for youthful carefreeness, bright aspirations, and, undeniably, hope.

Sergei Solovyov’s film "Tender Age" stands out as a poignant chronicle for those who could not navigate the stormy transformations sweeping through society. The film’s script, crafted from genuine narratives penned by the director’s son, Mitya, encapsulates the essence of the era, filled with its conflicts, losses, and fragile friendships. The haunting line, "Out of 17 people in our group, only four remain alive," starkly illustrates the dramatic nature of the times. Solovyov, acutely aware of life’s fragility, created a masterpiece that reflects the harsh truths of the 90s. The film’s final scene, adorned with golden foil and underscored by Boris Grebenshikov’s song "I Dreamed of a Path to the North," symbolically illustrates the tragic divide between life and death.

"Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" – Youth in the Rhythm of the 90s

In contrast to the despair-laden tone of "Tender Age," the series "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" offers a different perspective on the epoch. Its creators, who were younger at that time, managed to experience the 90s with less pain. This series radiates a sense of lightness and youthful naivety while unmasking the brutal reality of the time. The romance of rooftop hangouts, concerts by Agata Kristi at the Metallurg House of Culture, and the initial attempts at romance collectively craft a rich atmosphere.

The protagonist, Sacha (played by Yegor Gubarev), is caught in a web of circumstances where, despite his proper upbringing and humble surroundings, he must navigate a world dictated by adults — rife with criminal gangs, confrontations, and the burdens of premature adulthood. His father, Fyodor Ivanovich, with a name resonant of heroes from Russian classics, encapsulates the tragic fate of a child growing up in an era bereft of stable moral compass.

Friendship and Roofs: Brotherhood Amid Chaos

The camaraderie among Sacha, Vovan, Zhenya, and Ilyusha transcends mere adolescent friendship; it is a fierce struggle for their place in a chaotic world. Every summer transformed into an endless contest for "squares of living space" against the adult gangs. Their adversaries, such as the fiery "Gypsy team" and the notorious Zurab's group, symbolize the ruthless adult reality where survival reigns supreme.

In this unsettling world, teenagers matured faster than they were meant to. The thresholds of adulthood were defined not by school exams, but by the looming shadows of weapons, drugs, and the harrowing losses of loved ones. Even the sunniest moments — like the thrill of first love or the delightful feeling of "she and I are together" — emerged as rare beacons of joy in a turbulent sea.

Symbolism and Cultural References

The narrative of the series is rich in symbolism that emphasizes the tragic nature of the epoch. Sacha's father, Fyodor Ivanovich, serves as a reminder of the figures from Russian literature who suffer while desperately clinging to their humanity. His intermittent attempts at atoning for his guilt towards his son, often manifested in small gestures like treating him to a scoop of ice cream, reflect the universal struggle of a generation of parents ill-equipped to confront the new realities that had emerged.

The characters draw heavily from cultural references, with Sacha’s uncle, the leader of an "Afghan" brigade named Volkov, reminiscent of characters from the film "14+" directed by Zaitsev. These parallels forge an interconnected artistic tapestry where the destinies of the characters are intrinsically intertwined.

Everyday Life: From Syringes to Video Games

The series does not shy away from portraying everyday details that vividly characterize the decade. It features everything from the funerals of stray dogs on hamster hills to makeshift controllers fashioned from weightlifting plates, and the gradual expansion of windows in panel apartment buildings. Each detail adds a brushstroke to the canvas of daily life, rich with small joys and significant tragedies.

Post-Soviet Russia: From Weakness to Maturity

The true strength of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" lies in its ability to prompt viewers to reflect on their own mistakes, vulnerabilities, and the lessons learned. It invites audiences to not only recognize familiar images but also relive moments that become symbols of maturation. This series is not merely an account of the 90s, but a universal drama about individuals who strive to survive despite overwhelming difficulties.

Like Solovyov’s film, this series leaves its viewers with a poignant blend of sadness and hope. Sadness for the past and for those who have been forever impacted by it. Hope that weaknesses and mistakes can transform into experiences that lead to new beginnings.