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

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

In today’s television landscape, the nostalgia for yesteryears often comes alive, as series evoke fond memories while encouraging us to rethink past eras. The show by Ilya Aksenov, titled "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!", stands out as a brilliant illustration of this phenomenon. It conjures up images reminiscent of the American sensation "Stranger Things", yet it shines a spotlight on the distinctive realities of Russia. In this piece, we will delve into how this project narrates the formation of a generation that arose from the debris of the Soviet Union, all viewed through the enchanting lens of the 90s.

What Fuels Nostalgia?

For millennials, the 90s often symbolize a turbulent shift from the reassuring stability of the Soviet era to the chaotic dawn of capitalism. This decade was marked not only by economic instability but also by an explosion of cultural phenomena. The charm of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" lies in its ability to portray this time through the eyes of teenagers navigating life in the urban jungle of rooftops, bustling markets, and VHS tapes.

While "Stranger Things" revolves around the American 80s, its Russian counterpart shines a light on our own 90s—a period filled with both newfound freedoms and rampant chaos. This delicate balance resonates throughout the series, reflected in everything from the set designs to the carefully curated soundtracks and engaging plotlines.

The Plot: Teen Adventures in a Criminal World

At the heart of this narrative are four teenagers: Sanya, Vovka, Ilya, and Zhenya, collectively dubbed the “Brotherhood of the Roof.” This gang becomes embroiled in conflicts that encapsulate the zeitgeist of the time. On one hand, they face off against local bullies; on the other, they find themselves trapped in the crossfire between two rival criminal factions—the veterans of Afghanistan and the Caucasian mafia. This storyline allows a glimpse into the atmosphere of the 90s through the untainted lens of adolescent experiences, unburdened by the adult cynicism that often clouds perception.

Compellingly, the young protagonists grapple not only with external threats but also with their own burgeoning emotions and tumultuous relationships with their families. For instance, Sanya’s mother juggles household management while wrestling with the ghosts of her difficult marriage, his grandfather promotes a cult of strength, and his father, a meek writer, struggles to rise to the challenges of the day.

Inspiration from the Past

The parallels with "Stranger Things" are striking: a group of friends facing dangers head-on, immersing viewers in the essence of a specific time. Yet, whereas the former revels in the fantastical, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" presents tangible threats, familiar to its post-Soviet audience. Instead of monsters from alternate realms, the characters confront "wolves" and "bulls"—the thugs whose very existence encapsulates the crime-ridden romanticism of that time.

The visual elements of the series deserve special mention. Flashbacks are styled to mimic the rewinding of a VHS tape, while conflict scenes are filmed in long, uninterrupted takes, creating a visceral sense of presence. A particularly memorable moment occurs during a market riot, thoughtfully reminiscent of a similar incident in the film, "The Bull."

The Culture of the 90s in All Its Details

The production design and props within the show masterfully encapsulate the aesthetic of the era:

• Flea markets: featuring boiled jeans and baseball caps emblazoned with "USA California."
• Pop culture artifacts: walls adorned with posters of Sylvester Stallone and clips from the movie "Kickboxer."
• Gaming nostalgia: the Dendy gaming console, where characters duke it out in "Street Fighter," highlighting the popularity of pirated western products.

Musically, the series weaves together the anthems of the era (Dr. Alban, Irina Allegrova, Haddaway) with contemporary revisits (like Sorotkin’s rendition of "Breath" by Nautilus Pompilius).

Gender Dynamics and Toxic Masculinity

Notably, despite featuring robust female characters such as Zhenya, Sanya’s mother, and Alica’s girlfriend, the series ultimately reflects a patriarchal culture. Women find themselves fighting for their place in this world, often engaging in conflicts with men who still adhere to the values of the "wild 90s." Nevertheless, the portrayal of female characters enriches the narrative, reminding us that the tides of change affected everyone.

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

This series not only skillfully recreates the atmosphere of the 90s but also reinterprets it through the lens of the present day. It stands as both an entertaining show and a cultural critique, revealing how a millennial generation raised amidst chaos forged its own identity.

Ultimately, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" serves as a dialogue between the past and the present, akin to the best works of art that bridge gaps across generations, binding viewers of all ages in shared experiences.