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

Why "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" Is a Reflection of the 90s and Our Own "Stranger Things"

Modern television frequently revisits the past, crafting series that not only stir up nostalgia but also provide fresh perspectives on bygone eras. Ilya Aksenov's series "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" serves as a vivid example of this trend, stirring up associations with the American phenomenon "Stranger Things," yet placing a distinct emphasis on Russian realities. This article delves into how the project weaves a narrative through the filters of 90s romanticism, depicting the emergence of a generation formed amidst the remnants of the USSR.

The Source of Nostalgia

For millennials, the 90s evoke memories of a turbulent transition from the stability of the Soviet Union to the chaotic embrace of capitalism. This era was not just marked by economic uncertainty but also an extraordinary cultural renaissance. The charm of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" lies in its ability to offer a glimpse into this period through the eyes of teenagers navigating life in alleyways, markets, and among VHS tapes.

In contrast to "Stranger Things," which is steeped in the American 80s, this series plunges into the essence of the 90s in Russia—a time characterized by both newfound freedoms and rampant disorder. This delicate balance permeates every facet of the show, from its setting and soundtrack to the intricate plotlines.

Plot: Teen Adventures Amidst a Criminal Landscape

At the heart of the narrative are four teenagers: Sanya, Vovka, Ilya, and Zhenya. Their collective dubbed as "The Brotherhood of the Roof", finds itself embroiled in conflicts that echo the spirit of the times. On one hand, they face off against local bullies; on the other, they become embroiled in a clash between two rival criminal factions—the veterans of Afghanistan and the Caucasian mafia. This storyline offers a window into the life of the 90s, viewed through the lens of youthful experiences stripped of adult cynicism.

The tensions run deeper as the teens grapple not only with external threats but also their internal struggles and their relationships with their parents. For example, Sanya’s mother juggles household responsibilities while wrestling with memories of her tumultuous marriage, while his grandfather promotes a cult of strength, all while Sanya's father—a weak-willed writer—struggles to confront the challenges of the era.

Inspiration Drawn from the Past

The parallels with "Stranger Things" are apparent: a tight-knit group of friends faces dangers that immerse viewers in the atmosphere of a particular time. However, unlike the fantastical elements of its American counterpart, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" presents real and recognizable threats familiar to the post-Soviet audience. Rather than monsters from parallel dimensions, we get to encounter the ominous presence of "wolves" and "bulls"—criminals who embody the gritty romanticism of that time.

The visual storytelling of the series merits attention as well. Flashbacks are creatively portrayed as if rewinding a video cassette, while scenes of conflict are filmed in long, uninterrupted takes, amplifying the immersion for viewers. Noteworthy is the scene featuring the destruction of a market, evoking a similar moment from the film "Bull."

The Culture of the 90s in Detail

The set design and props intricately capture the aesthetic essence of the time:

• Flea Markets: pump up with boiled jeans and baseball caps emblazoned with “USA California.”
• Pop Culture: walls adorned with posters of Sylvester Stallone and clips from "Bloodsport" illustrate the cinematic influences of the era.
• Dendy Gaming Console: the characters entertain themselves with "Street Fighter," highlighting the prevalence of pirated copies of Western products.

The soundtrack creatively blends hits of the time (Dr. Alban, Irina Allegrova, Haddaway) with contemporary reimagined covers, such as Sirotkin's rendition of "Breath" by Nautilus Pompilius.

Gender and Toxic Masculinity

Curiously enough, despite featuring formidable female characters like Zhenya, Sanya's mother, and Alica's girlfriend, the series remains reflective of a patriarchal culture. Women are obliged to battle for their place in this world, often through confrontations with men who still operate under the rules of the "wild 90s." Nonetheless, the portrayal of female figures adds layers of depth to the narrative, reminding us that the era of change affected all demographics.

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

This series not only brilliantly recreates the atmosphere of the 90s but also reinterprets it through the lens of today. It stands as both an entertaining show and a cultural exploration, portraying how millennials, who grew up amidst chaos, shaped their values.

Moreover, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" represents a dialogue between the past and present that, akin to the finest works of art, unites audiences across generations.