Fartsa

Set in the heart of the 1960s Moscow, the Russian criminal drama series “Fartsa” presents an intriguing fusion of historical backdrop and character-driven storytelling. The series was first aired in 2015 on Первый канал, also known as Channel One Russia, and quickly captured the audience's attention with its unique premise and striking depiction of a bygone era.

The name "Fartsa" refers to a phenomenon that arose during the Khrushchev Thaw, a period characterized by the Soviet Union's relative liberalization from the direct, oppressive Stalinist policies. Fartsa, or 'fartsovka', involved the illegal trading of foreign goods, mainly from Western countries, which were coveted as symbols of status and prosperity in Soviet society during this era.

The show follows the lives of four friends - Kostya, Roma, Lyonya and Shurik - who find themselves drawn into this criminal underworld while trying to strive for upward mobility and forge their way to a brighter future. Coming from different backgrounds with their own set of dreams and aspirations, their brotherhood is tested as they navigate the intricate world of Fartsa and grapple with pressures of morality, law, and survival.

Kostya, who emerges as one of the central figures in the series, is a bright and ambitious young man who's determined to rise above his working-class background. Roma is an athletic charmer who uses his irresistible charisma to make a living while closely guarding a painful secret. Lyonya is a talented musician, forced to sacrifice his love for his art to provide for his family. And Shurik, the youngest of the group, is torn between his loyalty to his friends and his inherent belief in the rule of law.

Every episode of “Fartsa” is packed with drama, suspense, and intrigue as the four friends are tossed into countless upheavals underscored by the larger societal and economic turmoil of the time. The show expertly weaves a narrative that delivers not just an entertaining crime drama but also a socio-political commentary on the Soviet Union during the 1960s.

What sets "Fartsa" apart is its compelling blend of history, drama, and crime. It delves into the clandestine world of illicit trading, offering viewers a glimpse into a less explored facet of Soviet history. The series illustrates the lengths to which ordinary citizens would go, driven by a longing for western commodities, fashionable clothing, and a taste of the forbidden fruit of capitalism.

The richness of "Fartsa" lies not only in the thrilling plot and historical representation but also in its characters' complexity. Their aspirations, tribulations, dilemmas, and inner turmoil contribute to the layered narrative. They are portrayed as nuanced individuals, each dealing with their own demons, which makes the storyline profoundly engaging. Moreover, the character development throughout the series underscores the profundity of their struggles, further enriching the narrative.

The visuals and production design of the series are also noteworthy. With impeccable attention to detail, the set pieces, costumes, and the general ambiance accurately capture the essence of Moscow during the Khrushchev Thaw, bringing to life the aesthetics of the era.

A remarkable feature of "Fartsa" is its embedded soundtrack, which features a plethora of Russian songs from that era, offering an authentic audio-visual immersive experience. The soundtrack significantly enhances the historical realism and encapsulates the spirit of the 60s that the show aims to depict.

"Fartsa", overall, delivers a captivating mix of drama, history, and crime. Its ability to depict a complex era in Russia's history paired with compelling character narratives makes it a riveting watch. Whether audiences are drawn by the historical premise, the crime and suspense, the socio-political commentary, or the intricate character arcs, "Fartsa" holds a broad appeal making it an engaging series that's hard to turn away from.