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

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

Contemporary television frequently reaches into the annals of history to craft series that not only evoke nostalgia but also offer fresh perspectives on bygone eras. Ilya Aksenov's series, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" serves as a striking example of this, calling to mind the American sensation "Stranger Things" while emphasizing the unique realities of Russian life. In this piece, we will explore how the show encapsulates the essence of the 90s through the lens of youth navigating the tumultuous aftermath of the Soviet Union.

What Sparks Nostalgia?

For millennials, the 1990s are synonymous with a wild transition from the security of Soviet life to the unpredictable landscape of capitalism. This era was marked not only by economic instability but also by an astonishing surge in cultural expression. The allure of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" lies in its ability to present this period from the perspective of adolescents who roamed the rooftops, frequenting markets and watching VHS tapes.

While "Stranger Things" immerses viewers in the American 1980s, this series roots itself in the domestic turmoil of the 90s—a time of both freedom and chaos. This delicate balance is palpable in every facet of the show, from the meticulously crafted set design to the carefully selected soundtrack and storyline.

Plot: Teen Adventures Amidst a Criminal Underworld

At the heart of the narrative are four teenagers: Sanya, Vovka, Ilya, and Zhenya. Dubbed the "Brotherhood of the Roof," their friendships lead them into conflicts that encapsulate the spirit of the time. On one hand, they face off against local bullies; on the other, they become embroiled in the clashes between two criminal factions: the veterans of Afghanistan and the Caucasian mafia. This plotline offers a glimpse into the essence of the 90s through the youthful lens of emotions untainted by adult cynicism.

Particularly compelling is the dual narrative of external conflicts alongside the internal struggles these teenagers face about their feelings and their relationships with their parents. For instance, Sanya's mother grapples with managing the household while confronting the haunting memories of a difficult marriage. Meanwhile, Sanya’s grandfather fosters a cult of strength, and his father—a meek writer—struggles to meet the epoch's challenges.

Inspirations from the Past

The comparisons with "Stranger Things" are evident: a group of friends contends with perils, drawing viewers into the atmosphere of a specific time. However, rather than delving into the realm of fantasy, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" presents its audience with stark realities familiar to post-Soviet viewers. Here, there are no monsters from alternate dimensions; instead, there are the "wolves" and "bulls"—gangsters who embody the criminal allure of the era.

Even the visual storytelling of the series deserves special mention. Flashbacks are artfully presented as rewinding video tapes, while conflict scenes are shot in long, uninterrupted takes, ensuring a heightened sense of immediacy. A particularly striking moment involves the devastation of a market, reminiscent of a similar scene in the film "Bull."

The Culture of the 90s in Details

The series excels in capturing the aesthetics of the 1990s through its set design and props:

• Flea Markets: Boasting boiled jeans and baseball caps emblazoned with "USA California."
• Pop Culture: Walls adorned with posters of Sylvester Stallone and visuals from "Kickboxer."
• Dendy Gaming Console: The characters engage in "Street Fighter," underscoring the popularity of pirated Western products.

The accompanying soundtrack beautifully blends the hits of the time, featuring artists like Dr. Alban and Irina Allegrova alongside contemporary reinterpretations, such as Sirotkin’s cover of Nautilus Pompilius' "Breathing."

Gender and Toxic Masculinity

Intriguingly, despite the presence of strong female characters like Zhenya, Sanya's mother, and Alika's girlfriend, the series ultimately mirrors a patriarchal culture. Women must navigate their place in this world, often contending with men who continue to abide by the rules of the "wild 90s." Nevertheless, the portrayal of female characters enriches the narrative, emphasizing that the tide of change impacted everyone.

Why "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" Matters

This series is not only a masterful recreation of the 90s atmosphere; it also reinterprets the era through a contemporary lens. It stands as both an entertaining show and a cultural exploration, revealing how the millennial generation—raised amidst chaos—has shaped their values.

Furthermore, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" engages in a dialogue between past and present, uniting viewers from all generations much like the finest artistic works do.