Exploring 'Plevako': A Captivating Historical Drama

Historical Series "Plevako" (2024): A Stunning Launch with an Engaging First Episode

The premiere of the historical detective series "Plevako" has quickly become one of the most hotly discussed events of autumn 2024. This project, which delves into the life of the legendary Russian lawyer Fyodor Nikiforovich Plevako, has finally seen the light of day after a lengthy development period. The inaugural episode aired on November 7, 2024, on the Premier streaming platform, igniting lively debates among viewers and critics alike.

The Struggling Journey of Creating the Series

The narrative surrounding the creation of the series is compelling enough to warrant its own film. Initial attempts to bring Fyodor Plevako's story to the screen commenced back in 2017 when the talented Vladimir Mashkov was considered for the leading role. However, the project hit a wall and remained dormant until its revival in 2021. This new iteration entrusted the lead role to Sergey Bezrukov, with Anna Matison, Bezrukov's wife, stepping in as director. This creative duo has previously demonstrated their success in various projects, and "Plevako" stands as another testament to their fruitful collaboration.

Fyodor Plevako: A Legend of Russian Advocacy

Fyodor Nikiforovich Plevako is a name that resonates deeply within the Russian legal community. His eloquent speeches have been immortalized in rhetoric and forensic textbooks, still studied in law schools today. Plevako earned the moniker "the Moscow Golden-mouthed" for his uncanny ability to find the precise language that could sway even the most formidable judges.

However, the reality of Plevako's life is shrouded in enigma. Many episodes of his biography have given rise to fascinating tales and legends. For example, anecdotes surround his birth, suggesting that in a moment of despair, his mother contemplated drowning herself along with her baby, only to be halted by the child’s piercing cry.

This emotional narrative, while somewhat dubious in terms of historical accuracy, emphasizes the dramatic essence of Plevako's life. Like many children from his era, he faced challenges stemming from his illegitimate birth, shaping the course of his destiny. Yet these adversities did not break him; rather, they forged a resilient character in the future attorney.

Biography or Creative Fiction?

The series' creators made a daring choice, opting for a historical detective format instead of a straightforward biographical drama. The protagonist is named Nikolai Fyodorovich Plevako—an invented character inspired by the real Fyodor Nikiforovich. This approach allows the writers to sidestep accusations of inaccuracies while freely interpreting historical events.

Each episode revolves around a distinct legal case, showcasing Nikolai Fyodorovich as the defense attorney. This structure not only highlights the hero’s legal prowess but also provides insight into the meticulous preparation that goes into advocacy: gathering evidence, examining testimonies, and constructing a compelling defense.

Characters that Add Depth

Noteworthy among the characters is Yulia Plevako, the younger sister of the protagonist. Although based on a real person, historical records about her are scarce. In the series, Yulia embodies the spirit of progressive women from the 19th century—educated, bold, and independent. Her character infuses dynamism into the narrative, breaking up the male-dominated storyline.

Additionally, the series delves into the personal life of Nikolai Fyodorovich. Historical data regarding Plevako’s family relations are nearly nonexistent, granting the screenwriters creative latitude. For instance, his divorce from his first wife and the estrangement from his elder son Sergey remain shrouded in mystery, even among historians. Interestingly, he chose to name his second son Sergey, leading to confusion among biographers.

Landmark Legal Cases at the Heart of the Narrative

In the first episode, viewers are introduced to two pivotal cases in the career of the real Plevako. The first centers around an elderly woman who stole a kettle valued at thirty kopecks. This tale has often been referenced within legal circles as a prime example of defense artistry. In reality, the item in question was a coffee pot worth three hundred rubles, highlighting the lawyer's exemplary work.

The second case involves Praskovya Kachka, who shot her lover. The actual events were considerably less dramatic than depicted in the show; in real life, it culminated in a love triangle, ending with the young woman being placed into a care facility. However, the series transforms this case into a true detective story with a gripping climax.

Sergey Bezrukov as Plevako

Sergey Bezrukov's portrayal of Nikolai Fyodorovich marks another shining achievement in his career. His performance lends considerable depth to the character, and his voice reverberating through the courtroom speeches truly brings to life the words famous among legal professionals. It feels as if the very voice of Plevako echoes from the screen.

Details Crafting the Atmosphere

The meticulous attention to detail is one of the series' primary strengths. Costumes, settings, and the manner of speech—all contribute to a rich immersion in the 19th-century milieu. The efforts of the costume designers and set decorators deserve special commendation in their work.

Historical Parallels

An intriguing parallel can be drawn between the fates of the actual Plevako and the fictional Rodion Raskolnikov from Dostoevsky's novel "Crime and Punishment." Both characters navigated the challenges of poverty and familial responsibility during the same period. However, while Plevako chose the path of diligent work and learning, Raskolnikov veered into crime and moral decay. This stark contrast highlights the inner strength and determination of the real-life advocate.

Reflections on the First Episode

The series "Plevako" serves not only as an enthralling narrative but also stands as a brilliant example of melding historical fact with creative imagination. It captivates both legal aficionados and the broader public, thanks to its engaging plots, stellar performances, and meticulously recreated period atmosphere.

The initial impressions of the series are overwhelmingly positive, and it seems viewers can anticipate many more thrilling episodes ahead. "Plevako" has quickly established itself as a significant cultural phenomenon, destined to leave its mark on the annals of Russian cinema.