Exploring Teen Life in the 90s Through 'World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!'
The series by Ilya Aksenov, "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!", recently launched on the Premier streaming service, is far more than a mere coming-of-age tale set against the backdrop of the 1990s. It serves as a vivid cruise through a singular era in Russian history, depicted through the lens of the youthful inhabitants of a small provincial town. This project melds nostalgia, tragedy, and humor, generously crafting a profound and intricate portrayal of the tumultuous times marked by the initial stages of capital accumulation.
Teen Life Amidst Societal Shifts
Set in the year 1993, in the Tula region, the narrative unfolds the lives of schoolmates Sanya, Vovka, Ilya, and the fiery-haired Zhenya. These vibrant teens spend their days lurking behind garages, scaling the roofs of towering apartment blocks, and daydreaming about their futures, all while confronting typical adolescent challenges. Hormonal surges, abandoned musical ambitions, and the thrill of first crushes blend together with the harsh realities of their family lives and the world outside.
Sanya's family exemplifies how different generations navigate change. His mother hawks Turkish lingerie at the local market, while his father, a university lecturer, appears lost amidst the whirlpool of social upheaval. Then there's Uncle Alik—a veteran of the Afghan conflict—grappling with post-traumatic stress disorder. His nightly battles against reckless decisions and heart-wrenching scenes where he binds himself to a radiator symbolize the universal struggle against inner demons that seem to haunt the entire nation.
From Adolescence to National Maturation
One of the series' standout features is the striking parallel drawn between the characters' growth and the country's evolution. The 90s—an era characterized by the early accumulation of capital—are depicted not through the usual lens of gangsters or glamor, but rather through the dusty backyards, deserted factories, and the blissful oblivion of youth.
This portrayal sets Aksenov's work apart from other cinematic recollections of the 90s, such as "Tightness" by Kantemir Balagov and "Bull" by Boris Akopov. There is no over-dramatization nor any attempts to romanticize those years. Instead, the series offers an honest and refreshing perspective, reminding us that even amidst social catastrophes, adolescents will invariably remain adolescents.
Cinematic Style and Performances
Ilya Aksenov, known for his contributions to guerilla cinema and independent projects, continues to hone his distinctive style in "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" with a focus on performance and dynamic interactions over elaborate visuals. Yet, the cinematography by Alexey Filippov is noteworthy in its own right; sweeping wide shots incorporating elements of wild provincial nature transform the Russian countryside into a sort of modern-day Wild West.
Among the acting highlights is Stepan Devoinin portraying Sanya’s father—a refined educator penning novels in secret while forced into trading with his wife at the market. His character evokes genuine empathy and respect. Yuri Borisov as Uncle Alik and Nikita Pavlenko also deliver deeply nuanced interpretations of their roles, contributing to the profound fabric of the narrative.
A Teen Epoch of Violence and Dreaming
At first glance, the title of the series may seem light-hearted. However, "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" delves into a teenage epoch where fear and discovery intertwine seamlessly. Right from the inaugural episode, an emblem of the times—a black BMW—emerges as a potent symbol of violence and the criminal underworld. Yet the series skillfully navigates the spectrum between dark comedy, dramatic depths, and youthful romance, allowing viewers to interpret the tangled narratives as they please.
Final Thoughts
In summary, "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" transcends the categorization of just another series about the 90s. It is a nuanced and profound work that, through the eyes of its teenage characters, reveals how the nation underwent its most significant transformations. By intertwining elements of tragedy, humor, and nostalgia, Ilya Aksenov crafts a piece that entertains, moves, and invites viewers to reflect on the painful revelations that accompany both personal and societal growth.