Exploring '90s Teenage Life in 'World! Friendship! Chewing Gum'
Series "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" – A Journey Through the Adolescent Era of the '90s
The series by Ilya Aksenov, "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!", recently unveiled on the streaming platform Premier, is not merely a tale of growing up during the '90s. It serves as a comprehensive exploration into a remarkable period in Russia’s history, brought to life through the experiences of teenagers in a small provincial town. This project intertwines nostalgia, tragedy, and humor, presenting a profound and richly layered depiction of the era marked by initial capital accumulation.
Teenage Life Amidst Social Change
Set against the backdrop of 1993 in Tula region, the narrative follows a group of schoolchildren: Sanya, Vovka, Ilya, and the fiery-haired Zhenya. Their daily lives unfold in the shadows of garages and atop high-rise buildings, where they dream about the future while navigating the tumultuous waters of adolescence. Hormonal surges, abandoned musical ambitions, and fledgling romances blend seamlessly with the stark realities imposed by their families and surroundings.
For instance, Sanya’s family exemplifies the struggle of various generations grappling with change. His mother, selling Turkish linen at the local market, epitomizes resilience, while his father, a college professor, appears adrift amidst the societal upheaval. Another notable character, Uncle Alik, a veteran of the Afghan war, battles with post-traumatic stress disorder. His desperate attempts to contain reckless impulses, coupled with haunting scenes of him handcuffed to a radiator, symbolize the internal demons tormenting not just him but the entire nation in this chaotic period.
From Personal Turmoil to National Transformation
One striking aspect of the series is the parallel drawn between the characters’ growth and the maturation of Russia itself. The 1990s, a time of initial capital accumulation, are portrayed not through the commonplace images of gangsters or glamour, but through dusty courtyards, desolate factories, and a youthful oblivion that defies the structure of typical narratives.
This innovative approach distinguishes Aksenov's work from other representations of the '90s, such as Kantemir Balagov's "Tightness" or Boris Akopov's "Bull". Here, there's no exaggerated dramatization or romanticization of the decade; rather, we are presented with an unvarnished and refreshing perspective that underscores the fact that even amidst social calamities, teenagers remain steadfastly, unapologetically themselves.
Cinematic Style and Performances
Ilya Aksenov, who previously explored guerrilla cinema and independent projects, continues to hone his distinctive style in "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" He prioritizes the artistry of performance and the rhythm of storytelling over visual gimmicks. However, the cinematography of Alexey Filippov deserves commendation: widescreen shots showcasing the untamed beauty of provincial life offer a striking parallel to the Wild West.
Among the notable performances is Stepan Devonin as Sanya’s father. His character, an intellectual educator who pens a novel in secret while navigating life as a market vendor alongside his wife, evokes genuine empathy and respect. Yuri Borisov, portraying Uncle Alik, and Nikita Pavlenko also deliver nuanced interpretations of their complex roles, adding depth to the overall narrative.
Adolescence: An Era of Violence and Dreams
The title of the series may seem deceptively light-hearted. "World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" delves into a phase where fear and discovery coexist. From the very first episode, a black BMW emerges as a potent symbol of the era, a representation of violence and the criminal underbelly. Yet, the series deftly balances elements of dark comedy, drama, and the coming-of-age narrative, allowing the audience to engage with the storyline on a personal level and derive their own interpretations.
Final Thoughts
"World! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" transcends the typical portrayal of the '90s. It is a nuanced and profound work that, through the lens of adolescence, encapsulates a nation undergoing monumental transformations. By intertwining tragedy, humor, and nostalgia, Ilya Aksenov crafts a piece that not only entertains and engages but also prompts reflection on the inevitable pain and discoveries that accompany both personal and societal growth.