Explore the Gripping Historical Series "Plevako"

The Historical Series "Plevako" (2024): A Stunning Debut with a Gripping First Episode

The premiere of the historical detective series "Plevako" has emerged as one of the most talked-about events of the autumn 2024. This new project delves into the life of the legendary Russian lawyer Fyodor Nikiforovich Plevako, who has long been a subject of fascination. After years of development, it finally made its debut on November 7, 2024, on the Premier platform, igniting lively discussions among viewers and critics alike.

The Tumultuous Journey to Creation

The backstory behind the making of this series appears almost cinematic itself. Initial efforts to bring the life of Fyodor Plevako to the screen date back to 2017, when actor Vladimir Mashkov was considered for the leading role. However, progress stalled, leaving avid fans in limbo. It wasn’t until 2021 that the project was revitalized, this time with Sergey Bezrukov stepping into the pivotal role and Anna Matisson, his wife, directing the series. This creative duo has previously proven their chemistry through multiple projects, and "Plevako" stands as another testament to their collaborative success.

Fyodor Plevako: A Legend of Russian Law

Fyodor Nikiforovich Plevako is a prominent name in the annals of Russian jurisprudence. His eloquent speeches not only became part of rhetoric textbooks but continue to be studied in law faculties across the country today. He earned the moniker "Moscow's Golden Mouth" for his remarkable talent in creating compelling arguments that could sway even the most hard-nosed judges.

Nevertheless, much of Plevako's real life is shrouded in mystery. Numerous aspects of his biography have fueled captivating legends. Take, for example, the tale of his birth: as legend has it, his mother, in a state of despair, contemplated drowning herself and her infant. Yet, the child’s loud cries turned her back from the brink.

While this heartbreaking account might be considered dubious in terms of historical accuracy, it emphasizes the drama of Plevako's life. Like many children of his generation, he grappled with the hardships attributable to being born out of wedlock, an experience that left a lasting mark on his life. Instead of succumbing to adversity, these trials seemed to forge a resilient character within the future attorney.

The Thin Line Between Biography and Artistic Fiction

The creators of the series daringly opted to depart from a straightforward biographical drama, favoring the format of an historical detective centering on the character of Nikolai Fyodorovich Plevako—a fictional portrayal inspired by the real legend. This creative decision empowers the writers to navigate the narrative freely and sidestep criticisms related to historical inaccuracies.

The series unfolds episodically, each chapter illuminating a distinct legal case where Nikolai Fyodorovich takes on the role of the defender. This episodic structure not only showcases the protagonist's legal acumen but also provides a behind-the-scenes perspective on preparing for a trial: compiling evidence, dissecting witness testimonies, and constructing a robust defense.

Characters That Add Depth

A noteworthy character in the series is Yulia Plevako, the younger sister of the main character. Although this character is based on a historical figure, there is scant documentation regarding her life. In the series, Yulia embodies the essence of progressive women of the 19th century—well-educated, courageous, and independent. Her role injects a refreshing dynamism into the series and alleviates the male-dominated narrative.

The storyline also places significant emphasis on the personal life of Nikolai Fyodorovich. The historical accounts surrounding Plevako's familial relationships are sparse, allowing the screenwriters a canvas for imaginative exploration. For instance, his divorce from his first wife and estrangement from his eldest son, Sergey, remain shrouded in ambiguity, even for historians. Intriguingly, in his second marriage, Plevako named his new son Sergey as well, giving rise to uncertainty among researchers investigating his life.

Landmark Legal Cases in Focus

In the inaugural episode, viewers are introduced to two landmark cases that marked the career of the real Plevako. The first involves an elderly woman accused of stealing a kettle valued at 30 copecks. This instance has since become a notable story within legal circles as a prime example of effective defense. Contrary to the actual events, which revolved around a coffee pot worth 300 rubles, the essence lies in Plevako’s exquisite legal representation.

The second case concerns Praskovya Kachka, who shot her lover. In reality, this incident was less sensational, merely a love triangle that culminated in her being committed to a psychiatric institution. However, the series transforms the narrative into an evocative detective story bursting with suspense and a thrilling conclusion.

Sergey Bezrukov as Plevako

The portrayal of Nikolai Fyodorovich is another remarkable achievement for Sergey Bezrukov. His nuanced performance adds layers to the character, and the fervor with which he articulates legal arguments brings the historical figure’s words to life, making it feel as though Plevako himself were speaking from the screen.

Details That Create Atmosphere

Attention to detail emerges as a singular advantage of the series. Costumes, settings, and speech patterns all work harmoniously to transport the audience back to the 19th century. The efforts of costume designers and set decorators deserve commendation for crafting such an immersive experience.

Historical Parallels

One interesting parallel can be drawn between the real Plevako and the fictional Rodion Raskolnikov from Dostoevsky's "Crime and Punishment." Both characters lived during the same period and faced their own financial struggles and familial responsibilities. Yet, the paths they chose diverged sharply; Plevako pursued a life of labor and education, while Raskolnikov succumbed to crime and moral decay. This contrasting trajectory underlines the strength and determination of the real attorney.

End of the First Episode

The series "Plevako" is not merely an enthralling tale; it stands as a striking example of how historical facts can blend seamlessly with artistic interpretation. It caters to both legal professionals and the general audience alike, thanks to its captivating stories, stellar performances, and the richly recreated ambiance of the era.

The initial reactions to the series have been overwhelmingly positive, suggesting that viewers can expect many more thrilling episodes to come. "Plevako" has already carved out its place as a significant cultural phenomenon and is sure to make its mark in the annals of Russian cinema.