Exploring Teenage Life in the 90s with 'Peace! Friendship! Gum!'
The recently released series by Ilya Aksenov, titled "Peace! Friendship! Gum!", is not merely a tale of coming-of-age in the 1990s—it's a captivating expedition into a distinctive time in Russia. Presented through the lives of teenagers in a quaint provincial town, this series blends nostalgia, tragedy, and humor into a rich and intricate portrayal of the period characterized by the initial stages of capital accumulation.
Teenage Life Amidst Social Upheaval
Set in 1993, against the backdrop of Tula Oblast, the narrative revolves around a group of school friends: Sanka, Vovka, Ilya, and the fiery-haired Zhenya. Their days are spent hanging out by garages, exploring the rooftops of high-rises, and indulging in daydreams about the future, all while grappling with the quintessential dilemmas of adolescence. Hormonal surges, abandoned musical aspirations, and first loves intertwine with the stark realities of their families and environment.
Sanka's family is emblematic of the struggles faced by different generations during times of change. His mother sells Turkish lingerie at the market, while his father, a college educator, flounders in the swirling chaos of societal shifts. Another pivotal character is Uncle Alik, a veteran of the Afghan conflict who battles post-traumatic stress disorder. His nightly struggles to refrain from reckless actions, and the poignant imagery of being handcuffed to a radiator, serve as a profound metaphor for the internal demons that seem to haunt the entire nation.
From Puberty to the Nation's Awakening
One of the series' most remarkable attributes is the parallel drawn between the characters' maturation and Russia's own journey toward adulthood. The 1990s, that era of rough and tumble capitalism, is depicted not through the glamorized lens of crime lords or the glitz of nightlife, but rather through dusty courtyards, deserted factories, and the blissful ignorance of youth.
This nuanced approach sets Aksenov's project apart from other cinematic representations of the 90s, such as Kantemir Balagov's "Closeness" or Boris Akopov's "Bull". There is no excessive dramatization, nor an attempt to romanticize those turbulent years. Instead, the series offers a candid and refreshing perspective that serves as a reminder that even amid societal disarray, the essence of adolescence remains unchanged.
Cinematic Style and Actor Performances
Ilya Aksenov, known for his work in guerrilla cinema and independent projects, continues to refine his unique cinematic style in "Peace! Friendship! Gum!" Here, he accentuates the performances and dynamics of the actors, favoring them over flashy visual effects. Nevertheless, the cinematography by Alexey Filippov deserves special recognition; the wide-format shots infused with elements of rugged rural scenery transform the Russian hinterlands into a strikingly imaginative reflection reminiscent of the Wild West.
Among the remarkable discoveries is Stepan Devonin, who plays Sanka's father. His portrayal of a thoughtful educator penning a novel in secret, while simultaneously selling wares at the market with his wife, evokes genuine sympathy and respect. Yuri Borisov, in his role as Uncle Alik, and Nikita Pavlenko also deliver performances that reveal deep layers within their characters.
Adolescence in an Era of Violence and Dreams
The title of the series may appear deceptively light-hearted. "Peace! Friendship! Gum!" encapsulates a teenage experience where fear coexists with discovery. Right from the first episode, a symbol of the era emerges—a black BMW—serving as an emblem of violence and the criminal underbelly. However, the series strikes a balance between dark comedy, drama, and the coming-of-age narrative, allowing viewers the latitude to interpret storylines on their terms.
The Final Thought
"Peace! Friendship! Gum!" transcends being just another 90s series; it stands as a delicate and profound work that, through the lens of its adolescent characters, portrays a country undergoing monumental transformations. By weaving together tragedy, humor, and nostalgia, Ilya Aksenov has crafted a piece that entertains, touches hearts, and prompts reflection on how the journey to adulthood—whether personal or societal—is invariably accompanied by pain and revelations.