Discover the Intriguing Premiere of 'Plevako' Series

The premiere of the historical detective series "Plevako" has emerged as one of the most-talked-about events of autumn 2024. This project, which chronicles the life of the legendary Russian lawyer Fyodor Nikiforovich Plevako, had been in development for a considerable time before finally hitting the screens. The inaugural episode aired on November 7, 2024, on the Premier platform, igniting lively discussions and debates among viewers and critics alike.

The Rocky Journey of Creating the Series

The saga of bringing this series to life is worthy of its own cinematic treatment. Initial efforts to portray Fyodor Plevako on screen date back to 2017, when actor Vladimir Mashkov was considered for the lead role. However, the project stalled, only to be rekindled years later in 2021 with a fresh cast. The main character was entrusted to Sergey Bezrukov, while Anna Matisson, Bezrukov's wife, took on the role of director. This creative duo had already proven their successful partnership in prior projects, and "Plevako" stands as yet another testament to their collaborative achievement.

Fyodor Plevako: A Legend of Russian Advocacy

Fyodor Nikiforovich Plevako is a name etched in the minds of many Russian legal professionals. His eloquent speeches have become staples in textbooks on rhetoric and courtroom oratory, continuing to be studied in law faculties to this day. Known as the "Moscow Chrysostom," Plevako had a unique flair for crafting precise language capable of swaying even the most stern judges.

Nevertheless, the life of the original Plevako remains shrouded in enigma. Numerous episodes from his biography have sparked tales and legends. Take, for instance, the story of his birth: it is said that during a moment of despair, his mother contemplated drowning herself along with her newborn child, yet the loud cries of the infant compelled her to reconsider.

Though the veracity of this emotionally charged tale could be debated, it underscores the dramatic essence of Plevako’s life. Like many children of his era, he faced hardships stemming from his illegitimacy, an experience that undoubtedly left its mark on his future. Rather than breaking him, these challenges only served to forge the resilient character of the future attorney.

Biography or Artistic License?

The creators of this series made a bold choice, stepping away from the confines of a biographical drama to embrace the format of a historical detective narrative. The protagonist in the series bears the name Nikolai Fyodorovich Plevako—a fictional character crafted from the inspiration of the real Fyodor Nikiforovich. This creative approach allows the authors to sidestep accusations of inaccuracy while freely interpreting events.

Each episode is centered around a distinct legal case in which Nikolai Fyodorovich takes on the role of the defense attorney. This structure not only showcases the protagonist’s legal prowess, but also delves into the meticulous preparations involved: gathering evidence, analyzing witness statements, and formulating defense strategies.

Characters That Add Depth

A character worthy of mention is Yulia Plevako, the younger sister of the main character. While she is inspired by a real person, historical information about her is sparse. In the show, Yulia emerges as a representation of the progressive women of the 19th century—educated, courageous, and independent. Her role injects a dynamic energy into the narrative, counterbalancing the male-dominated story arc.

Additionally, the series offers a glimpse into Nikolai Fyodorovich’s personal life. Biographical records regarding Plevako’s familial relationships are scant, providing the screenwriters with the creative liberty to invent intriguing storylines. For instance, his divorce from his first wife and the breakdown of his relationship with his eldest son, Sergey, remain mysteries even to historians. Interestingly, in his second marriage, he named his second son Sergey once again, adding further confusion for researchers studying his life.

Iconic Legal Cases at the Heart of the Story

In the first episode, viewers are introduced to two landmark cases that were pivotal in the career of the real Plevako. The first involves an elderly woman who was accused of stealing a teapot for thirty kopecks. This saga has become a footnote in legal history as a showcase of masterful defense. While reality was more nuanced—the case concerned a coffee pot valued at 300 rubles—the narrative shines a light on the attorney’s commendable capabilities.

The second case revolves around Praskovya Kachka, who shot her lover. In reality, the circumstances were far less dramatic than depicted in the series; this was a love triangle that concluded with the young woman being placed in an asylum. Nevertheless, the scriptwriters transformed this case into a high-stakes drama bursting with suspenseful twists and turns.

Sergey Bezrukov as Plevako

Sergey Bezrukov’s portrayal of Nikolai Fyodorovich marks yet another crowning achievement in his acting career. His performance adds significant depth to the character, and his delivery of the attorney's speeches breathes life into texts known to many legal professionals. Audiences can almost hear the voice of Plevako resonating from the screen.

Details That Create Atmosphere

Attention to detail stands as one of the series’ most commendable strengths. The costumes, set designs, and speech patterns all contribute to an immersive experience in the 19th-century landscape. The work of the costume designers and set decorators deserves special recognition for their meticulous efforts.

Historical Parallels

An intriguing parallel can be drawn between the lives of the real Plevako and the fictional Raskolnikov from Dostoevsky's "Crime and Punishment." Both characters lived in the same era, facing the strains of poverty and familial obligations. However, where Plevako chose a path of labor and education, Raskolnikov ventured down a road of crime and moral decay. This stark contrast emphasizes the spirit and determination of the real-life lawyer.

Epilogue of the First Episode

"Plevako" is not merely an entertaining story; it exemplifies a brilliant blend of historical truths and artistic creativity. It captivates both legal professionals and general audiences through its thrilling narratives, stellar performances, and meticulously recreated historical backdrop.

Initial impressions of the series evoke a sense of optimism, suggesting that viewers can anticipate many more captivating episodes. "Plevako" has already made its mark as a significant cultural phenomenon and is sure to be etched into the annals of Russian cinema history.