Discover the Intrigue of the Historical Series 'Plevako'

The launch of the historical detective series "Plevako" has quickly turned into one of the most talked-about events of the autumn season in 2024. This ambitious project sheds light on the life of the legendary Russian lawyer Fyodor Nikiforovich Plevako, a figure who has long captured the imagination of many. After years of development, the show finally premiered on November 7, 2024, on the Premier platform, igniting vibrant discussions among viewers and critics alike.

The Turbulent Tale of Bringing the Series to Life

The backstory of this series is riveting and could easily itself be transformed into a captivating film. The initial attempts to bring the life of Fyodor Plevako to the screen date back to as early as 2017, with renowned actor Vladimir Mashkov considered for the lead role. However, the project faced obstacles, and it wasn't until 2021 that it was re-launched, this time with a new team. The role of the main character was entrusted to Sergey Bezrukov, while the directorial reins were taken up by Anna Matison, who happens to be Bezrukov’s spouse. This dynamic couple had already proven their synergy in various projects, and "Plevako" stands as another testament to their collaborative brilliance.

Fyodor Plevako: A Legend of Russian Advocacy

Fyodor Nikiforovich Plevako is a name familiar to every Russian lawyer and legal scholar. His eloquent speeches have become part of textbooks on rhetoric and courtroom tactics, and they continue to be subjects of study in law faculties across the country. Dubbed the "Moscow Golden Tongue" for his exceptional knack for persuasive language, Plevako possessed the remarkable ability to sway even the sternest judges with just his words.

Yet, the reality of Plevako's life remains shrouded in mystery. Numerous events from his biography have spiraled into lore. One particularly poignant tale speaks of his birth, suggesting that in a moment of despair, his mother contemplated drowning both herself and her newborn. It was the child's piercing cry that halted her.

This touching narrative, while questionable in terms of historical accuracy, illustrates the drama embedded in Plevako's existence. Like many other children of his era, he faced the challenges associated with being born out of wedlock, which left a significant mark on his later life. Yet, rather than being crushed by these early difficulties, Plevako emerged more resolute.

Biography or Creative License?

In a bold move, the creators opted for a distinctive pathway, blending biography with the elements of a historical thriller rather than adhering strictly to the biographical genre. The series centers on the character Nikolai Fyodorovich Plevako—a fictional representation inspired by the real-life Fyodor Nikiforovich. This creative choice allows the writers to sidestep criticisms regarding inaccuracies while freely interpreting historical moments.

Each episode focuses on a specific legal case, showcasing Nikolai Fyodorovich as the advocate. This episodic format not only highlights the character's legal acumen but also offers insight into the intricate preparations behind each case, encompassing evidence gathering, witness analysis, and the construction of defense strategies.

Characters That Add Depth to the Narrative

A character worthy of special mention is Yulia Plevako, the younger sister of the protagonist. While rooted in a real-life figure, historical documentation about her is scant at best. In the series, Yulia embodies the essence of progressive women from the 19th century—educated, brave, and independent. Her presence injects dynamic energy into the storyline, effectively balancing the male-dominated narrative.

Additionally, great emphasis is placed on the personal life of Nikolai Fyodorovich. The biographical information concerning Plevako’s family relationships is minimal, allowing the writers a wide berth for imaginative storytelling. For instance, his divorce from his first wife and a estrangement from his elder son Sergey remain enigmas, even to historians. Notably, in his second marriage, Plevako chose to name his second son Sergey as well, leading to further confusion among those studying his life.

Landmark Legal Cases at the Heart of the Plot

In the inaugural episode, audiences are introduced to two landmark cases that significantly shaped the career of the real-life Plevako. The first involves an elderly woman who stole a teapot worth 30 kopecks. This case has entered into legal annals as an exemplary model of defense strategy. Interestingly, the reality involved not a teapot, but a coffee pot priced at 300 rubles, showcasing the brilliance of Plevako's advocacy.

The second case pertains to Praskovya Kachka, a woman who shot her lover. Contrary to the series’ dramatized portrayal, the actual case was less sensational—culminating in the woman's admission to a mental health facility following a love triangle. Nevertheless, the writers transformed this incident into a gripping detective story with an intense finale.

Sergey Bezrukov Delivers a Stunning Performance as Plevako

Sergey Bezrukov’s portrayal of Nikolai Fyodorovich is yet another stellar addition to his acting repertoire. He imbues the character with depth, and his powerful delivery of the lawyer's rhetoric almost brings Plevako’s renowned words to life on screen. It is as though the very voice of Plevako echoes throughout each scene.

Details That Enrich the Atmosphere

Attention to detail stands out as one of the series' strongest attributes. From costumes to interior designs and speech patterns, every element serves to immerse the viewer in the 19th-century milieu. The artistry of costume designers and set decorators deserves special commendation for their exceptional work.

Historical Parallels Worth Noting

Fascinating parallels can be drawn between the lives of the real Plevako and the fictional Rodion Raskolnikov from Dostoevsky's novel "Crime and Punishment." Both characters navigated life during the same period, grappling with poverty and familial responsibility. However, while Plevako chose the path of labor and education, Raskolnikov fell into crime and moral decay. This contrast underscores the strength of spirit and resolve exhibited by the real lawyer.

Concluding Thoughts on the Premiere Episode

"Plevako" emerges not just as an intriguing tale but as a vivid example of how historical fact can intertwine with artistic fiction. The series captivates both the legal community and the general public alike, thanks to its compelling narratives, splendid acting, and meticulously reconstructed historical atmosphere.

Initial reactions to the series have been overwhelmingly positive, suggesting that viewers can expect many more exhilarating episodes ahead. "Plevako" has already established itself as a significant cultural milestone, undoubtedly destined to leave a lasting mark on the landscape of Russian cinema.