Exploring Youth and Change in 'Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!'
If you’re searching for an engaging exploration of the 1990s in Russia, look no further than Ilya Aksenov’s new series, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" Available on the streaming service Premier, this show stands out not merely as a coming-of-age tale; it is a riveting journey into a distinctive epoch of Russian history, where the lives of teenagers paint a vivid picture of societal transitions. With its unique blend of nostalgia, tragedy, and humor, it offers viewers a nuanced and layered depiction of that era marked by the onset of capitalism.
Teenage Life Against a Backdrop of Social Change
Set in the year 1993, within the Tula region of Russia, the narrative revolves around four schoolfriends: Sanyka, Vovka, Ilya, and the fiery-haired Zhenya. These teenagers spend their days in places often overlooked — behind garages, atop high-rise roofs — as they grapple with their aspirations intertwined with typical adolescent tribulations. The tumult of hormonal changes, abandoned musical instruments, and fragile first romances coalesce with the harsh realities imposed by their families and surroundings.
Sanyka’s family embodies the struggle of various generations coping with change. His mother hawks Turkish lingerie at the market while his father, a college professor, finds himself adrift amid the societal upheaval. Meanwhile, the character of Uncle Alik, a seasoned veteran of the Afghan war, grapples with post-traumatic stress, his nightly battles against reckless behavior becoming a profound symbol of internal strife that mirrors the nation’s collective trauma.
Transition from Adolescence to National Maturity
One of the series' remarkable features is the parallel drawn between the protagonists' maturation and the collective coming-of-age of Russia itself. The 1990s, often characterized by the harsh realities of capital accumulation, are depicted not through exaggerated gangster portrayals or glamorous scenes but rather through dusty courtyards, abandoned factories, and the obliviousness of youth.
This authentic approach distinguishes Aksenov’s work from other cinematic representations of the 90s, such as "Tightness" by Kantemir Balagov or "Bull" by Boris Akopov. There’s no over-the-top dramatization or attempts to romanticize the era. Instead, viewers are given a candid look that reminds us of an undeniable truth: even amidst societal collapse, teenagers will always navigate the complexities of adolescence.
Cinematic Style and Acting Performances
Ilya Aksenov, who previously established himself in the realm of guerilla cinema with independent projects, continues to develop his trademark style in "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" His focus leans heavily towards performance and character dynamics rather than visual splendor. However, it’s worth highlighting Alexey Filippov's cinematography. His wide-angle shots intermingled with images of rugged provincial beauty transform Russia's hinterlands into something akin to the Wild West — stark, raw, and full of untamed spirit.
Among the noteworthy performances is Stepan Devoin, portraying Sanyka’s father. His character, an intellectual teacher secretly striving to pen his novel while forced to hawk goods alongside his wife at the market, evokes genuine sympathy and respect. Similarly, Yuri Borisov as Uncle Alik and Nikita Pavlenko both deliver well-rounded portrayals, adding depth to their respective roles.
Adolescence Amidst Violence and Dreams
The title of the series might suggest a lighthearted premise, but "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" delves deep into a young world fraught with turmoil, where fear intertwines with new revelations. From the very first episode, we encounter a quintessential symbol of the times: a menacing black BMW, representing the violence and criminality of the underworld. Nevertheless, the series artfully navigates between elements of dark humor, drama, and the bittersweet nature of growing up, allowing viewers the freedom to interpret the unfolding narratives as they wish.
A Profound Finale
"Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" transcends being just another series set in the tumultuous 90s. It serves as a delicate, penetrating piece of storytelling that employs the insights of youth to mirror a nation amidst its most significant transformations. By masterfully blending tragedy, humor, and nostalgia, Ilya Aksenov crafts a work that both entertains and resonates, compelling us to ponder how maturation — whether personal or social — invariably accompanies pain and discovery.