A Deep Dive into the 'Plevako' Series in Troitsk

Troitsk and "Plevako"

The series "Plevako" emerged as a monumental event within the realm of Russian cinematography. This ten-part historical drama, woven into the fabric of the detective genre, narrates the life and professional journey of one of Russia’s most distinguished lawyers — Fyodor Nikiforovich Plevako. The series premiere, held in Troitsk, not only unveiled the initial episodes of this remarkable tale but also enveloped the audience in the authentic ambiance of the 19th century, recreated with astonishing precision.

Troitsk: A Museum City as a Filming Ground

Troitsk was chosen as a principal filming location for very good reasons. This city, nestled in the Southern Urals, is the birthplace of Plevako. Here, amidst architectural settings from the late 19th to early 20th centuries, the bustling merchant Moscow was beautifully reimagined. Alexey Texler, the governor of the Chelyabinsk region who endorsed the filming endeavor, remarked that Troitsk serves as a veritable open-air museum. Its cobblestone streets, historical edifices, and genuine atmosphere seamlessly meld into the artistic vision of the series.

The local populace took an active role in the filming process, appearing as characters in crowd scenes. Renowned actor Sergey Bezrukov, who portrayed the lead role, expressed heartfelt admiration for the residents of Troitsk, deeming them one of the most dedicated and genuine groups he had ever collaborated with.

The Genius of Jurisprudence in the Spotlight

Fyodor Plevako represents the pinnacle of Russian legal advocacy in the 19th century. Born under challenging circumstances, being illegitimate and bearing numerous social stigmas, he rose to be a figure whose name became a beacon of humanism and expertise. Over the course of his illustrious career, Plevako triumphed in more than two hundred legal cases, tackling some of the most complex trials of the time. His courtroom speeches, often beginning with a witty anecdote, became a model of oratory excellence. Even when the guilt of his clients was apparent, he had an uncanny knack for presenting arguments that led to their acquittals.

Crafting the Character: Sergey Bezrukov's Approach

Sergey Bezrukov, the celebrated People's Artist of Russia, portrayed Plevako with profound respect and admiration. He famously referred to the lawyer as the “Pushkin of jurisprudence” due to his extraordinary talents and contributions to human rights advocacy. To fully inhabit the character, Bezrukov meticulously examined Plevako's biography, his notable cases, and courtroom orations. A crucial role in the project was played by Bezrukov's wife, Anna Matison, who served as both director and screenwriter.

Bezrukov emphasized that the series encompasses all of Plevako’s significant cases; however, due to the ten-episode format, not every detail could be captured. Each installment opens with an entertaining anecdote that sets the mood and concludes with Plevako’s legendary speech, creating a unique rhythm that intertwines historical accuracy with creative storytelling.

The Plot of the Series: More Than Just a Detective Story

While "Plevako" is undeniably a historical detective narrative, it delves beyond the professional life of its protagonist, exploring his personal affairs, particularly his intricate relationship with Maria Demidova. This romantic subplot elegantly complements the detective elements, broadening the appeal of the series to a wider audience. The creators introduced artistic embellishments into the narrative while preserving the spirit of the era and the historical integrity of pivotal events.

Troitsk and the Legacy of Plevako

In the series, Troitsk holds a unique position. In the concluding episode, viewers will witness the Holy Trinity Cathedral, where Fyodor Plevako was awarded the title of honorary citizen. Additionally, a photo album showcasing images of the Urals is featured, housed within a local museum. The actual home where the lawyer resided still stands today, despite being privately owned. Local authorities and activists have often raised the prospect of establishing a Plevako museum, and a memorial plaque commemorating the great lawyer has already been affixed to the city administration building.

Cultural Heritage of Plevako

Fyodor Plevako’s name is immortalized beyond the film industry. In Russia, medals bearing his name are awarded for significant contributions to human rights advocacy. Plans are underway in Chelyabinsk for the installation of a monument in his honor, further solidifying the efforts to preserve his memory.

The End

The series "Plevako" transcends mere cinematic storytelling; it pays tribute to a figure who left an indelible mark on Russian history. Thanks to the dedicated cast and crew, including director Anna Matison and actor Sergey Bezrukov, viewers are granted the opportunity not only to enjoy a captivating storyline but also to connect with the rich cultural legacy. This project stands as a prime example of how art can reignite interest in the illustrious figures of the past, inspiring a new generation to delve into the history of their homeland.