Exploring the Intricacies of 'Plevako' Series on Premier
On the streaming platform Premier, a fresh, Russian series titled "Plevako" has made its debut, narrating the fascinating life of the renowned 19th-century lawyer Nikolai Plevako, portrayed convincingly by Sergey Bezrukov. This intriguing project is a captivating blend of legal procedural, detective tale, and historical drama, vividly adorned with striking visuals and gripping courtroom battles.
Nikolai Plevako: The Lawyer as an Artist
At the heart of this series lies Nikolai Plevako, a character straddling the line between fictional allure and historical reality. In the annals of history, Fyodor Nikiforovich Plevako is recognized as a master of courtroom rhetoric; his speeches were lauded for their lyrical beauty and emotional resonance with juries. In stark contrast, the series offers a theatrical portrayal: Plevako emerges as a stage artist and master manipulator, capable of evoking tears or roaring applause with his legal triumphs.
Sergey Bezrukov fits this role seamlessly, infusing a unique eccentricity and dramatic flair into the character. His acting is a delicate balance between traditional theatre and contemporary cinema. From impassioned oratories on Russia's fate to poignant addresses to jurors, Bezrukov exhibits the emotional spectrum that defines Plevako’s persona. Though at times his performance may border on the overly theatrical, this quality perfectly embodies the spirit of the era and the character's real-life counterpart.
Drawing Parallels: Plevako vs. Sherlock Holmes
It's no surprise that critics frequently draw comparisons between "Plevako" and narratives featuring Sherlock Holmes, particularly Guy Ritchie's cinematic adaptations. The series boasts dynamic scenes, including street brawls and the protagonist's "visions" during intense moments of mental exertion, reminiscent of popular modern cinematic techniques. Nevertheless, "Plevako" forges its own path, harnessing these elements as tools to recreate the atmosphere of courtroom strife and personal narratives.
A fundamental distinction lies in the nuances and focal points of each story. While Sherlock Holmes is framed as a tale of a brilliant detective, "Plevako" unfolds the human stories and tribulations surrounding the pre-revolutionary Russian judicial system. Each case that the protagonist tackles is a microcosm of human tragedy, with the emotional backdrop lending the series its magnetism.
The Visual Splendor of 19th Century Moscow
One of the most striking features of the series is its visual style. Director Anna Matison has meticulously crafted each detail, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the ambiance of late 19th-century Moscow. Lavish sets, opulent costumes, and a realistic portrayal of settings—from the grim streets of Khitrovka to the grandiose interiors of restaurants—create an illusion that time has turned back.
The musical score, featuring waltzes by Schubert and other compositions, enhances this atmosphere significantly. The series delves into minutiae: gilded epaulettes, the crunch of a French roll, and the sounds of gravel paths—each element serves to transport the audience into that historic period. Yet, at times, the excessive attention paid to detail can detract from the primary narrative.
Plot and Structure: Every Case a Standalone Story
"Plevako" is not merely a historical drama but also a classic legal procedural. Each episode revolves around a distinct case encountered by the protagonist, which lends the series a compact yet engaging format. Viewers are introduced to various societal strata, ranging from the criminal underbelly of Khitrovka to the political elite.
Many of the legal dramas depicted are inspired by real events from Fyodor Plevako’s biography. For instance, his renowned speeches defending individuals accused of minor offenses serve as cornerstones for pivotal episodes in the series. Such an approach not only makes "Plevako" enthralling but also educational.
Supporting Characters: Living in the Shadow of a Genius
Despite Plevako's vibrant characterization, the supporting characters often linger in the background. This might be a deliberate choice since the primary focus is on the lawyer himself. However, audiences might have appreciated a deeper exploration of other figures, such as prosecutor Pobiedo-Бгнцев (Ihor Gordyn) or Maria (Olga Lerman), intertwined with crucial plotlines. Their character arcs tend to serve primarily as context against which the central figure unfolds.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Pros:
- Compelling Performance by Sergey Bezrukov, who masterfully embodies the character of the charismatic lawyer.
- Meticulous Attention to Historical Details, which enhances the authenticity of the portrayal.
- Engaging Narrative, where each case develops into a distinct drama.
- High-Quality Visual Production, from costumes to the musical score.
Cons:
- Insufficient Development of Supporting Characters, leading them to appear as mere backdrop to the main storyline.
- Overreliance on Viewer Engagement: Missing a few episodes might cause viewers to lose interest.
The End: The Art of Legal Drama
"Plevako" stands as a unique project that intertwines historical drama, legal procedural, and elements of detective fiction. The series captivates with its distinct style, impressive performances, and enthralling narrative. Despite a few shortcomings, it marks an important advancement for the Russian film industry in crafting high-quality historical content. For aficionados of courtroom dramas and vividly depicted historical personas, "Plevako" proves to be a true gem.