Exploring the Depths of 90s Youth in 'Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!'

Series "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" – A Journey Through the Teenage Era of the 90s

The recently launched series by Ilya Aksenov, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!", streaming on Premier, transcends the boundaries of mere storytelling about adolescence in the 1990s. It serves as a crafted time machine, transporting viewers into a singularly unique epoch in Russia, reflecting the colorful yet complex life of teenagers in a quaint provincial town. This artistic endeavor harmonizes nostalgia, tragedy, and humor, weaving an intricate, multi-faceted portrayal of a society grappling with the initial stages of capital accumulation.

Teen Life Amidst Societal Transformations

Set against the backdrop of 1993 in Tula Oblast, the narrative follows a group of school friends: Sanya, Vovka, Ilya, and the spirited redhead, Zhenya. Their days unfold in garage hideaways, atop high-rise rooftops, filled with dreams of what lies ahead, all while contending with the quintessential issues teenagers face. The emotional tumult of adolescence—hormonal spikes, abandoned musical aspirations, and early crushes—coexists with the stark realities imposed by their families and immediate environment.

Sanya’s family epitomizes the struggle faced by various generations maneuvering through societal upheaval. His mother hustles at the market selling Turkish linen, while his father, a university lecturer, finds himself bewildered by the whirlpool of social changes engulfing the country. Another compelling character is Uncle Alik, a former soldier from Afghanistan battling post-traumatic stress disorder. His desperate attempts to maintain a semblance of normalcy at night, often leading to reckless actions, paired with haunting scenes of him bound to a radiator—serve as profound metaphors for the internal demons plaguing a nation in turmoil.

Transitioning from Adolescence to National Growth

A unique trait of the series lies in the parallel drawn between the characters' maturation and the "growing pains" of Russia itself. The 1990s, often marked by the notorious era of capital accumulation, are depicted through dusty courtyards, abandoned factories, and an oblivious youth engrossed in their moments. Unlike other cinematic representations of the 90s, such as Kantemir Balagov's "Tightness" or Boris Akopov’s "Bull," Aksenov refrains from glorifying or excessively dramatizing the period. Instead, he offers an honest, fresh perspective, reminding viewers that even amidst societal catastrophes, the essence of youth endures.

Cinematic Style and Actor Performances

Ilya Aksenov, who previously dabbled in the guerrilla cinema genre and produced independent projects, further develops his distinctive style in “Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!” He emphasizes powerful performances and dynamic interactions over visual theatrics, yet the cinematography by Alexey Filippov deserves specific acknowledgment. His sweeping panoramic shots imbue the rustic backdrop of Russia with a Wild West vibe, transforming ordinary provincial life into a compelling visual narrative.

Among the standout performances is Stepan Devonin as Sanya's father. His portrayal of an erudite professor, who secretly aspires to pen a novel while simultaneously selling at the marketplace alongside his wife, evokes genuine sympathy and admiration. Yuri Borissov as Uncle Alik and Nikita Pavlenko also exhibit deep character exploration, bringing their roles to life with authenticity and emotional depth.

A Teenage Era Marked by Violence and Dreams

At first glance, the series title seems almost too light-hearted. However, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" delves into an adolescent world where fear intertwines with discovery. From the very first episode, a black BMW—a symbol of brutality and the underworld—serves as a recurring motif emblematic of the era’s violence. The series artfully balances elements of dark comedy, poignant drama, and a coming-of-age narrative, leaving audiences the freedom to interpret its rich layers of meaning.

Closing Thoughts

In summary, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" transcends the label of yet another 90s series. It is a nuanced, impactful piece of work that utilizes the lenses of youth to reflect upon a nation undergoing pivotal transformations. By fusing tragedy, humor, and nostalgia, Ilya Aksenov crafts a narrative that entertains, resonates emotionally, and compels reflection on the shared pain and enlightenment intrinsic to both personal and societal growth.