The Final Season of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" Review
On the video platform Premier, the third and final season of the series "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" has wrapped up, marking an end to one of the most emblematic representations of Russian reality in the 90s. Produced by Good Story Media, helmed by talented producers from Perm, this series has earned its rightful acclaim for its innovative take on the tumultuous decade, transforming it into a cultural phenomenon. Rather than merely chronicling life in the 90s, the show deftly weaves together drama, nostalgia, and a profound socio-cultural analysis into its narrative.
From a "90s Disco" to a Profound Tale of Growth
As the 2010s drew to a close, society showed a renewed interest in the 90s, often explored through film and television. However, many projects sank into clichéd portrayals: the leather-clad bandits, the era's music, and the pervasive chaos. In stark contrast, "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" stood out by presenting a refreshing viewpoint on the so-called "wild 90s" through the eyes of teenagers. This unique approach allowed viewers to relive the warmth of their childhood and youth, as familiar symbols and experiences came alive on screen.
The producers opted for a concept akin to a "local Stranger Things," stripping away any mystical elements while nurturing the heartfelt bonds of teenage friendship and a vibrant spirit of adventure. The series follows the journey of the "Brotherhood of the Roof," a crew of friends navigating the harsh realities of a world being rebuilt from the ashes of the old regime. The protagonist, Sanka Ryabinin, along with his friends Vovka, Ilyusha, and Zhenya, serve as a collective portrait of a generation grappling with the challenges posed by societal upheaval.
Transitioning from Childhood to Adulthood: Dynamics of the Characters
The inaugural season immerses the audience in a world of street games, concert outings, and cherished family moments. This was a touching yet naive narrative, imbued with nostalgia. However, as the characters matured, the tone of the series began to shift. In the second season, the teenagers encountered genuine issues: alcohol trafficking, familial disputes, and criminal confrontations over enterprises. A pivotal theme emerged—the realization of responsibility for one's actions and their impact on others.
By the third season, the characters have fully transitioned into adulthood. Set in 1996, amidst the electoral campaign dubbed "Vote or Lose," Sanka and Ilyusha venture into cassette sales, Vovka embraces fatherhood, while Zhenya dreams of marriage and moving abroad. Their lives abandon the realm of youthful fantasies, replaced by new formidable challenges. Symbolically, these transformations are represented through the motifs of separating from parental figures and forging their own paths in life.
The Deep Conflicts and Symbolism of the Third Season
The final season augments the drama significantly. Conflicts sharpen in intensity and complexity, requiring a mature approach from the characters. One of the central antagonists surfaces in the form of Vasya—a new criminal leader embodying the chaotic menace and brutality of the era. He transcends the archetype of a mere villain, almost taking on a mythic quality, prompting the series to delve into themes of moral choice and human frailty.
The main theme revolves around the necessity of making difficult decisions without resorting to violence. The characters learn to seek compromise, to forgive, and to grasp the consequences of their actions. The series culminates in an almost utopian resolution of conflicts through dialogue and empathy, a moment that, while seemingly idealistic, leaves viewers with a warm and lingering impression.
Aesthetic and Musical Accompaniment
The series' distinct atmosphere is further enriched by its musical landscape. Instead of the expected hits from the "90s disco" scene, the soundtrack features contemporary tracks, including the innovative sounds of Mujuice. This choice injects freshness and singularity into the show, distinguishing it from other portrayals of that era. The music emerges not just as a backdrop but as an integral participant in the storytelling, setting the mood and accentuating pivotal moments.
Closure: Naive Optimism or Logical Closure?
The story of "Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" concludes on a hopeful note, providing the characters with opportunities for happiness despite their myriad challenges. This resolution may appear somewhat naive, yet it aligns perfectly with the overarching philosophy of the series. It serves as a reminder that even amidst turbulence, there exists a glimmer of hope and the aspiration for a brighter future.
In Summary: A Reflection of a Generation
"Peace! Friendship! Chewing Gum!" transcended the realm of being merely a show about the 90s to become an essential cultural phenomenon. It illustrated how the narratives of individual lives can unveil the essence of an entire epoch. For those who grew up in this tumultuous decade, the characters offered a mirror of their own experiences, while the youth of the 21st century gained insights into the challenges their parents once faced. Ultimately, the series instills a sense of nostalgia and a poignant reminder that growing up is not an end, but rather the commencement of a new chapter.