Explore the Historical Detective Series 'Plevako' 2024
The Historical Series "Plevako" (2024): A Dazzling Debut with an Engaging First Episode
The premiere of the historical detective series "Plevako" has emerged as one of the most talked-about events of autumn 2024. This project, which delves into the life of the legendary Russian lawyer Fyodor Nikiforovich Plevako, has been in the works for quite a while, finally stepping into the limelight. The first episode premiered on November 7, 2024, on the Premier platform, and it has already sparked lively discussions among audiences and critics alike.
A Challenging Journey to Create the Series
The backstory of how this series came to be is a tale worthy of its own film. The initial attempts to bring Fyodor Plevako to the screen began as early as 2017, with actor Vladimir Mashkov considered for the lead role. However, the project stalled, and it wasn't until 2021 that it was revived with a new cast. The lead role was handed over to Sergey Bezrukov, with Anna Matison, the actor’s spouse, as the director. This creative and familial partnership had previously yielded successful projects, and "Plevako" stands as yet another testament to their joint success.
Fyodor Plevako: A Legend of Russian Law
Fyodor Nikiforovich Plevako is a name that resonates deeply within the legal community in Russia. His eloquent speeches have become fixtures in textbooks on rhetoric and courtroom eloquence, studied in law faculties even to this day. Plevako was often called the "Moscow Golden Tongue," for his extraordinary gift in finding the precise words needed to sway even the most steadfast judges.
However, the actual life of Plevako is shrouded in mystery. Many events from his biography have given rise to legendary tales. For instance, there is a captivating story about his birth: it is said that in a moment of despair, his mother contemplated drowning herself along with her newborn, but the baby's cries stopped her.
This emotional anecdote, while perhaps historically dubious, highlights the dramatic nature of Plevako’s life. Like many children of his time, he faced significant hardships due to his illegitimacy, which left a mark on his future. Yet, rather than breaking him, these adversities forged the character of the future attorney.
Biography or Creative Fiction?
The creators of the series took a bold step by veering away from the biographical drama genre, opting instead for a historical detective format. The main character’s name is Nikolai Fyodorovich Plevako—a fictional creation inspired by the real-life figure Fyodor Nikiforovich. This device allowed the authors to sidestep any accusations of inaccuracies and interpret events with greater freedom.
Each episode focuses on a singular legal case where Nikolai Fyodorovich serves as the defender. This structure not only showcases the character's legal prowess but also offers an insight into the preparation required for the case: collection of evidence, analysis of witness testimonies, and the construction of a defense strategy.
Characters That Add Depth
A notable mention goes to Yulia Plevako—the younger sister of the protagonist. This character is based on a real individual, yet historical records about her are scant. In the series, Yulia embodies the spirit of progressive women from the 19th century—educated, brave, and independent. Her presence in the narrative injects vitality and breaks the male predominance of the story.
Moreover, the series places significant emphasis on the personal life of Nikolai Fyodorovich. There is a dearth of biographical information regarding Plevako's family relationships, allowing the screenwriters to wield creative freedom. For instance, his divorce from his first wife and the rift with his elder son Sergey remain a mystery even among historians. Interestingly, Plevako named his second son after Sergey, adding a layer of confusion for those dissecting his life.
Iconic Court Cases at the Story's Core
In the inaugural episode, viewers are introduced to two landmark cases from the career of the real Plevako. The first case involves an elderly woman accused of stealing a teapot worth thirty kopecks. This narrative has etched itself into the annals of legal practice as a prime example of defense artistry. Though in reality, the theft concerned a coffee pot valued at three hundred rubles, the essence of the tale illustrates the attorney’s remarkable capabilities.
The second case pertains to Praskovya Kachka, who shot her lover. The true story was much less dramatic than depicted in the series; it involved a love triangle that culminated in the woman being placed in a mental health facility. However, the writers transformed this case into a riveting detective story with a gripping conclusion.
Sergey Bezrukov as Plevako
Sergey Bezrukov’s portrayal of Nikolai Fyodorovich marks another triumph in his illustrious career. His performance lends depth to the character, and the way he delivers legal arguments breathes life into texts well-known among lawyers. It feels as if Plevako’s voice resonates directly from the screen.
Atmosphere-Creating Details
The meticulous attention to detail stands as one of the series’ foremost strengths. Costumes, interiors, and speech patterns immerse the audience into the 19th-century milieu. The ensemble work of costume designers and set decorators deserves individual commendation.
Historical Parallels
An intriguing parallel can be drawn between the fates of real Plevako and the fictional Raskolnikov from Dostoevsky's "Crime and Punishment." Both characters lived during similar times, grappling with poverty and familial responsibilities. However, while Plevako chose the path of diligence and education, Raskolnikov veered towards crime and moral decay. This contrast underscores the real lawyer’s determination and strength of character.
Recap of the First Episode
The series "Plevako" is not merely an engaging narrative but a striking example of how historical facts can intertwine with creative storytelling. It holds appeal for both legal professionals and a broader audience, thanks to the captivating storylines, outstanding acting, and meticulously recreated historical atmosphere.
Initial impressions of the series evoke a wave of optimism, suggesting that viewers can anticipate many more gripping episodes ahead. "Plevako" has already carved a significant niche in cultural discourse and will undoubtedly be remembered in the annals of Russian cinematography.