Exploring the Intricacies of the Historical Series Plevako

The Historical Series “Plevako” (2024): A Brilliant Debut with an Engaging First Episode

The premiere of the historical detective series "Plevako" has become one of the most talked-about events of the autumn 2024 season. This project, which delves into the life of the legendary Russian lawyer Fyodor Nikiforovich Plevako, had been in development for quite some time, but it finally made its debut. The first episode aired on November 7, 2024, on the Premier platform and has already sparked lively discussions among both viewers and critics alike.

The Challenging Journey of Production

The story of the series’ creation could easily be the subject of a movie all on its own. The initial attempts to bring Fyodor Plevako's life to the screen date back to 2017, when actor Vladimir Mashkov was considered for the lead role. However, the project hit a snag, and it wasn’t until 2021 that it was revived with a new ensemble. The talented actor Sergey Bezrukov was entrusted with the lead role, while Anna Matison, his spouse, took the helm as director. This creative and personal duo had previously proven their success through various projects, and "Plevako" has become another shining example of their collaborative brilliance.

Fyodor Plevako: A Legend of Russian Advocacy

Fyodor Nikiforovich Plevako is a name that resonates deeply within the circles of Russian jurisprudence. His eloquent speeches have found their way into rhetoric and courtroom eloquence textbooks and continue to be studied in law faculties today. Often referred to as the "Moscow Golden Mouth," Plevako possessed the uncanny ability to wield words that could sway even the strictest of judges.

However, the true life of Plevako remains shrouded in mystery. Many episodes from his biography have given rise to legends. Take, for instance, the remarkable tale of his birth: it is said that in her despair, his mother once contemplated drowning herself and her newborn, but the piercing cry of the infant halted her.

Though the historical authenticity of this emotional narrative is questionable, it emphasizes the dramatic nature of Plevako's life. Like many children of his era, he faced adversity due to his illegitimate birth, which invariably left its mark on his destiny. Nevertheless, these hardships only tempered the character of the future lawyer, fortifying his resolve.

Biography or Artistic Fiction?

In a bold move, the creators opted to steer away from a strict biographical drama, instead choosing the format of a historical detective series. The protagonist of the series is named Nikolai Fyodorovich Plevako—a fictional character inspired by the real Fyodor Nikiforovich. This creative liberty allowed the authors to bypass potential critiques regarding factual inaccuracies and freely reinterpret the events surrounding Plevako’s life.

Each episode centers around a distinct legal case, showcasing Nikolai Fyodorovich in his role as a defender. This structure not only highlights the protagonist’s legal prowess but also unveils the intricate preparation leading to each case: evidence gathering, witness testimony analysis, and the crafting of defense strategies.

Characters that Add Depth

One character worthy of special mention is Yulia Plevako—the younger sister of the main character. While based on a real person, historical information about her is minimal. In the series, Yulia embodies the spirit of progressive women from the 19th century: educated, brave, and independent. Her presence injects dynamism into the narrative, breaking up the otherwise male-dominated storyline.

Additionally, the series places considerable emphasis on Nikolai Fyodorovich's personal life. The historical record on Plevako’s family relationships is sparse, granting the screenwriters the creative freedom to explore this aspect. For instance, his divorce from his first wife and the estrangement from his elder son Sergei remain enigmas, even for historians. Interestingly, in his second marriage, the lawyer named his son Sergei again, further complicating narratives for researchers examining his life.

Noteworthy Legal Cases at the Heart of the Plot

In the inaugural episode, viewers are introduced to two landmark cases that were pivotal in the real Plevako’s career. The first case revolves around an elderly woman who was accused of stealing a kettle for thirty kopecks. This incident has long been memorialized in legal annals as a prime example of masterful defense work. Contrastingly, the actual case involved a coffee pot valued at three hundred rubles, but the essence remains indicative of Plevako’s exceptional legal finesse.

The second case involves Praskovya Kachka, who shot her lover. In reality, the situation was considerably less dramatic, unfolding as a love triangle that ended with the young woman being admitted to a sanatorium. Nevertheless, the show's writers have elevated this tale into a riveting detective narrative complete with a suspenseful conclusion.

Sergey Bezrukov in the Role of Plevako

Sergey Bezrukov’s portrayal of Nikolai Fyodorovich represents yet another commendable achievement in his illustrious career. His performance lends profound depth to the character, and the resonance of his voice as he delivers the lawyer’s speeches brings to life the famed words of Plevako that are already familiar to many legal professionals. It's as if the very voice of Plevako echoes forth from the screen.

Details that Craft the Atmosphere

Attention to detail stands out as one of the series’ crowning virtues. Costumes, settings, and speech patterns all work in tandem to immerse the audience in the 19th-century era. The commendable efforts of costume designers and set decorators deserve separate accolades for their meticulous work.

Historical Parallels

An intriguing parallel can be drawn between the fates of the real Plevako and the fictional Rodion Raskolnikov from Dostoevsky’s novel "Crime and Punishment." Both figures lived during the same era and grappled with poverty and familial responsibilities; however, Plevako opted for a path of labor and learning, while Raskolnikov veered towards crime and moral decay. This contrast vividly emphasizes the fortitude and ambition of the historical lawyer.

Concluding Thoughts on the First Episode

The series "Plevako" is not merely an engaging narrative but also an exemplary fusion of historical truth and artistic fiction. It appeals to both legal scholars and the general public alike, thanks to its gripping plots, outstanding performances, and the meticulously recreated atmosphere of its era.

Initial impressions of the series offer an overwhelmingly positive outlook, suggesting that viewers can anticipate a wealth of vibrant episodes ahead. "Plevako" has already established itself as a significant cultural milestone that will undoubtedly be etched into the annals of Russian cinema.