Discover the Historical Series 'Plevako' Premiere Episode

The launch of the historical detective series "Plevako" marked one of the most talked-about events of the autumn of 2024. This project, centered on the life of the legendary Russian lawyer Fyodor Nikiforovich Plevako, had been in the works for quite some time, but it finally hit the screens. The first episode debuted on November 7, 2024, on the Premier platform, swiftly igniting lively discussions among both audiences and critics alike.

The Tumultuous Journey of Creation

The tale of bringing this series to life is compelling enough to be the subject of its own film. Initial attempts to portray Fyodor Plevako on screen began back in 2017, with actor Vladimir Mashkov initially considered for the lead role. However, the project hit a halt, and it wasn't until 2021 that it was revitalized with an entirely new cast. The lead role ultimately went to Sergey Bezrukov, while the directorial duties fell to Anna Matisson, Bezrukov’s spouse. This creative partnership, which has previously proven to be successful in a range of projects, found yet another triumph in "Plevako."

Fyodor Plevako: A Legend in Russian Advocacy

Fyodor Nikiforovich Plevako is a name well-known among Russian legal professionals. His eloquent speeches have been immortalized in textbooks on rhetoric and courtroom oratory, continuing to be studied in law faculties even today. Often referred to as the "Moscow Golden-Tongued" for his knack of articulating arguments that could sway even the sternest judges, Plevako remains an iconic figure in the annals of Russian law.

Yet, much of the real Plevako's life remains shrouded in mystery, with countless events of his biography morphing into legends. Take, for instance, the tale of his birth: there are accounts suggesting that his mother, in a fit of despair, attempted to drown herself along with her newborn, only to be halted by the child's loud cries. This dramatic narrative, while possibly apocryphal, underscores the tumultuous nature of Plevako's life. Like many children of his era, he faced adversity due to his illegitimacy, circumstances that indelibly influenced his destiny. Nevertheless, these challenges did not diminish him; they forged a resilient character in the future lawyer.

Fact or Fiction? A Blended Narrative

The creators of the series made a daring choice to step away from the biographical drama genre by adopting the historical detective format. The protagonist in the series bears the name Nikolai Fyodorovich Plevako—a fictional character inspired by the real Fyodor Nikiforovich. This approach granted the writers the freedom to interpret events and avoid accusations of historical inaccuracies.

Each episode focuses on a distinct legal case, featuring Nikolai Fyodorovich as the defender. This structure not only highlights the hero's legal prowess but also explores the meticulous preparation involved: evidence collection, witness testimony analysis, and defense strategy formulation.

Characters Enhancing Depth and Dimension

A noteworthy mention is made of Julia Plevako, the younger sister of the lead character. This role draws inspiration from an actual individual, although historical documentation of her life is scarce. In the series, Julia embodies the spirit of progressive women in the 19th century—educated, brave, and independent. Her inclusion serves to inject dynamism into the narrative and provides a counterbalance to the male-dominated storyline.

A significant focus is also placed on the personal life of Nikolai Fyodorovich. Sparse biographical records about Plevako’s family dynamics allowed the writers the creative liberty to craft various storylines. For instance, his divorce from his first wife and his strained relationship with his eldest son Sergey remain enigmatic, even to historians. Intriguingly, in his second marriage, he named his son Sergey again, which has caused confusion among scholars studying his life.

Landmark Legal Cases at the Heart of the Plot

In the first episode, viewers are introduced to two landmark cases that became pivotal in the career of the real Plevako. The first revolves around an elderly woman who stole a kettle valued at 30 kopecks. This narrative has long been cited in legal practice as a testament to the art of defense. In reality, the object in question was a coffee pot costing 300 rubles, yet the essence highlights the lawyer’s brilliant architectural defenses.

The second case concerns Praskovya Kachka, who shot her lover. The true story was far less dramatic than portrayed in the series - a love triangle culminated in her being institutionalized. However, the creators spun this tale into a gripping detective-like thriller with an electrifying conclusion.

Sergey Bezrukov as Plevako: A Standout Performance

Sergey Bezrukov's portrayal of Nikolai Fyodorovich is yet another feather in his cap. His performance breathes life into the character, infusing depth and authenticity. The eloquence with which he delivers the lawyer’s speeches makes it seem as if Plevako's words are resonating straight from the screen.

Details Crafting the Atmosphere

One of the primary strengths of the series lies in its meticulous attention to detail. Attire, settings, and speech patterns collectively transport viewers back to the 19th century. The accomplished work of costume designers and set decorators deserves special recognition.

Historical Parallels: A Reflection on Destiny

A fascinating parallel exists between the life of the real Plevako and the fictional Rodion Raskolnikov from Dostoevsky's novel "Crime and Punishment." Both characters lived in the same era, grappling with poverty and familial responsibilities. Yet, while Plevako chose the path of hard work and education, Raskolnikov embarked on a journey of crime and moral decay. This stark contrast underscores Plevako’s indomitable spirit and determination.

Closure of the First Episode

"Plevako" transcends being merely an engaging tale; it exemplifies how historical accuracy can be interwoven with narrative flair. It captivates not only legal professionals but also a broader audience, thanks to its riveting plots, extraordinary performances, and authentically recreated period ambiance.

Initial reactions to the series are overwhelmingly positive, suggesting that viewers can look forward to more captivating episodes ahead. "Plevako" is already cemented as a cultural milestone, destined to be etched in the chronicles of Russian cinema.