For starters, lets explain what does term "Stilyagi" means.
Stilyagi (Russian: стиляги; lit. "stylish", "style hunter") was a derogatory appellation for the members of a youth subculture that existed from the late 1940s until the early 1960s in the Soviet Union. Stilyagi were primarily distinguished by their snappy or fashionable clothing, considered politically incorrect and contrasting the communist-socialist realities, and fascination with Western music and fashions, therefore English writings on Soviet culture variously translated the term as "dandy," "fashionistas", beatniks, hipsters, zoot suiters, etc.
Moreover, their apolitical views, neutral or negative attitudes toward Soviet morality, and their open admiration of Western, especially American, lifestyles were key characteristics that slowly developed during the 1950 decade. In the mid 1950s, many people were arrested for making recordings on "bones" (developed X-ray films). Those found guilty of manufacturing and distributing such recordings received from three to five years of imprisonment in labour camps for profiteering. Today, the stilyagi are regarded as part of Russian historical social trends which further developed during the late Soviet era and allowed "informal" views on life, such as hippies, punks and rappers.
The story is placed in early 50s in Moscow. Young man, named Mels ( it means Marks, Engels, Lenin, Stalin), activ Comunist Party member - "komsomolec". He briefly meets and is intrigued by a hip girl named Polly, who invites him to hang out with her friends on "Broadway." Mels is drawn into their world of colorful fashions, dancing, and loud music.
Movie shows us a "grayness" of USSRs youth. Monochromatic reality, bleached of any kind of self expression and own decisions - "Party will tell you what to do!" All of you! Imagine that all of your clothes are the same, same color and tailoring. All music you hear is censored by a Party. Your future is to become a Party member and work till the end of your days to get a room in so called "komunal" flat? I'd rebel! So did they. Stilyagi shows us a stylish way of rebelling against the Soviet system. A colorful protest against being another brick in the wall. Served in humorous way, with a finest blend of russian rock'n'roll, boogie, jazz and pop.
I want this subculture to come back, but sadly, it's impossible to rebel against nothing...
