Exploring Childhood and Change in the 90s: A Review

World! Friendship! Chewing Gum! – A Nostalgic Journey through a Contradictory Era

The show "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" is a remarkable creation that transports viewers back to the tumultuous 1990s, a transitional period teetering on the edge of the old and new, hope and despair, and the past versus the future. During this time, society resembled a broken pendulum, oscillating between hopelessness and a fervent desire for change. The series masterfully weaves together a tapestry of memories, emotions, and symbols, igniting a bittersweet nostalgia while simultaneously stirring feelings of bitterness and disappointment.

Memories of the 90s: Abyss and Opportunity

For those of the older generation, the 90s are synonymous with chaos, lawlessness, and a general state of 'lack' – lack of hope, lack of stability, and lack of certainty about the future. However, the creators of the series invite us to view this era through the lens of childhood. The main character, Sasha Ryabinin, grows up in a provincial town, where the drabness of daily life is punctuated by exciting moments of joy, friendship, and new discoveries.

The writers intentionally shy away from a documentary style, instead opting for stylization and artistic imagery. This is not merely a reconstruction of an era but rather a viewpoint of a teenager sifting through the surrounding chaos to capture what resonates most: the angular gameplay on the Dendy console, the sweet taste of Chupa Chups, first love, and an unbreakable friendship that seemed everlasting.

Characters Against the Backdrop of the Era

At the heart of the series is Sasha Ryabinin, not just any teenager but a composite character whose coming of age intertwines with a pivotal moment in the country’s history. His family serves as a vivid example of the divergent responses from various societal layers to the new realities.

• The Ryabinin Family:
  Sasha's mother, Nadezhda, is a strong, determined woman forced to choose between moral principles and survival. Symbolizing those who not only adapted to the new conditions but learned to thrive, she embodies resilience. In stark contrast, Sasha’s father, Fyodor, represents the intelligentsia, crushed by the harshness of the new reality. His aspirations of emigrating and finding himself through creativity crash against the unforgiving demands of daily life. This couple epitomizes the clash of two worldviews: idealism versus pragmatism.
• Supporting Characters:
  Vovka, Zhenya, and Ilya are Sasha's friends who navigate the ups and downs of teenage life alongside him. Each friend reflects a unique perspective on how children perceive adult complexities, dangers, and contradictions. To them, adult problems—like criminal disputes, financial instability, and family dysfunction—appear distant and unclear.

Cultural Markers of the Era

The series is brimming with numerous details that evoke warm smiles of recognition: from the slogans proclaiming "Peace, Friendship, Chewing Gum" to the common threads of daily life such as advertisements, trendy hairstyles, and the music of the time. These elements are not mere backdrops, but vibrant characters woven into the narrative.

The 90s, depicted here, transcend mere historical chronology; they symbolize a state of being, suspended between childhood and maturity, innocence and the harshness of life. The screenwriters skillfully navigate the tightrope between humor and drama, showcasing how the fragile world of a teenager collides with the brutal realities surrounding them.

The Conflict of Eras and Generations

One of the central themes of the series is the intergenerational conflict. Parents, striving to survive within the new societal structure, often fail to grasp the perspectives of their children. While Sasha and his friends view the world through the lens of games, camaraderie, and early romantic experiences, the adults are preoccupied with the relentless battle for survival. This stark contrast adds an emotional depth to the series: despite the myriad challenges, children manage to discover joy and hope even in places where adults see only despair.

The Deeper Message

The creators of "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" do not simply entertain; they provoke thought. They refrain from presenting ready-made answers but rather elevate significant questions: How can one maintain humanity amidst widespread instability? How can adults discern the unbreakable bond with their offspring, and how can children retain their faith in kindness? Viewers find answers through their personal memories and experiences, allowing them to reflect on the deeper meanings of life.

End

"World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" transcends being a mere narrative of the 90s; it serves as a mirror reflecting the era in which every viewer discovers something personal: childhood, the first lessons of life, the taste of joy, and the bitterness of loss. It is an endeavor to comprehend and embrace a complicated time, which, in spite of its horrors and tribulations, will forever linger in the hearts of those who lived through it.