Explore the 90s with ‘Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!’

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

Ilya Aksenov's series "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!", recently released on the streaming platform Premier, transcends a mere coming-of-age narrative set in the 1990s. It takes viewers on a profound expedition into a distinctive period in Russian history, intricately woven through the lives of adolescents in a quaint provincial town. This project marries nostalgia, tragedy, and humor, painting a rich, multi-faceted portrait of an era marked by the initial stages of capital accumulation.

Teenage Life Amid Societal Change

The story unfolds against the backdrop of Tula Oblast in 1993, centering around a quartet of schoolchildren: Sanka, Vovka, Ilya, and the fiery-haired Zhenya. Their days are filled with escapades behind garages, on rooftops of multi-story buildings, and daydreaming about the future, while simultaneously grappling with the universal trials of adolescence. Hormonal outbursts, abandoned musical dreams, and first crushes intertwine with the harsh realities that shape their families and neighborhood.

Sanka’s family stands as a microcosm of generational responses to societal upheaval. His mother sells imported Turkish linens at a local market, striving to keep their household afloat, while his father, an academic educator, finds himself bewildered amidst the tidal waves of change. Colorful characterizations abound, particularly with Uncle Alik, a veteran of the Afghan war, who battles the haunting specters of post-traumatic stress syndrome. His desperate nightly struggles and scenes with handcuffs attached to radiators serve as potent symbols of the internal demons that seem to plague not just individuals but the entire country.

From Puberty to National Maturation

One of the striking attributes of this series lies in the evolving parallel between the characters’ growth and the maturation of Russia itself. The tumultuous 1990s, a pivotal time for capital accumulation, is presented not through the typical narratives of crime syndicates or glamor, but through gritty courtyards, deserted factories, and the oblivion of youth.

This distinctive approach by Aksenov differentiates his work from other cinematic portrayals of the 90s, such as Kantemir Balagov’s "Tightness" or Boris Akopov’s "Bull". There’s an absence of excessive dramatization or attempts to romanticize those turbulent years. Instead, viewers are offered an unfiltered, fresh perspective that serves as a reminder that even during timeframes tumultuous enough to shake society to its core, the essence of adolescence remains unchanged.

Cinematic Style and Acting Talent

Ilya Aksenov, known previously for his work in the guerrilla cinema genre and independent productions, continues to harness his signature style in "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" His focus lies on the raw talent of his actors and dynamic storytelling rather than visual spectacle. Nonetheless, the cinematography by Alexey Filippov deserves notable commendation; expansive frames showcasing the untamed beauty of provincial landscapes evoke a sense of the Wild West right in the heart of Russia.

Among the standout performances is Stepan Devonin, portraying Sanka's father—an erudite teacher grappling with personal failings while striving to pen his novel, all the while managing a market stall with his wife. His character evokes both empathy and admiration. Yuri Borisov as Uncle Alik and Nikita Pavlenko also offer well-crafted performances that delve deeply into their characters’ psyches.

Adolescent Turmoil and Dreams

The title of the series might come off as deceptively light-hearted. "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" encapsulates a teenage era where fear and discovery are entwined. Right from the opening episode, a cultural symbol emerges—the black BMW, representing the rampant violence and criminal undercurrents of the time. However, the series masterfully balances elements of dark comedy, drama, and the growth narrative, gifting viewers the liberty to interpret the unfolding storylines.

Closing Thoughts

"Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" is not just another retro series plugged into the 90s nostalgia trend. It’s a nuanced and poignant work that utilizes the lens of adolescence to reflect a nation undergoing its most significant transformations. Through astute blends of tragedy, humor, and nostalgia, Ilya Aksenov crafts a piece that not only entertains and stirs emotions but also prompts introspection about the inherent pain and revelations that accompany both personal and social maturation.