Explore the Historical Drama and Legacy of 'Plevako'

The series "Plevako" has emerged as a significant milestone in the realm of Russian cinema. This captivating ten-part historical drama, expertly woven as a detective yarn, unfolds the life and career of one of Russia's greatest attorneys—Fyodor Nikiforovich Plevako. The series premiere, held in the city of Troitsk, not only unveiled the initial episodes of this distinctive tale but also enveloped viewers in the atmosphere of the 19th century, meticulously recreated to evoke authenticity.

Troitsk: A City-Museum Serving as the Film's Backdrop

Troitsk was not arbitrarily chosen as a primary filming location. Nestled in the southern Ural region, this city is the birthplace of Plevako, making it the ideal canvas for the series' setting. The architectural designs reminiscent of the late 19th to early 20th centuries beautifully reconstructed a merchant-style Moscow. The Governor of Chelyabinsk region, Alexey Teksler, who championed the filming initiative, highlighted that Troitsk functions as an open-air museum. Its ancient streets, historic structures, and genuine ambience fit seamlessly within the artistic vision of the series.

Locals exhibited a spirited involvement throughout the filming process, frequently stepping into the roles of background characters. Sergey Bezrukov, who assumed the leading role, expressed his deep admiration for the city’s inhabitants, describing them as one of the most caring and genuine groups he has ever collaborated with.

The Legal Genius at the Heart of the Narrative

Fyodor Plevako represents the pinnacle of Russian advocacy from the 19th century. Despite growing up under challenging circumstances—being born out of wedlock, which imposed numerous societal limitations on him—he rose to prominence, becoming a symbol of both humanism and legal craftsmanship. Plevako’s remarkable career boasts the victory of over 200 complex legal cases. His courtroom speeches, which often commenced with a humorous anecdote, serve as paragons of oratory talent. Even when the guilt of his clients was apparent, he displayed a unique gift for crafting defenses that sometimes led to acquittals.

Sergey Bezrukov's Approach to the Character

Sergey Bezrukov, the honored artist of Russia, approached the role of Plevako with profound respect and admiration. He dubbed the attorney the "Pushkin of jurisprudence," recognizing his remarkable talent and contributions to legal advocacy. To authentically embody the character, Bezrukov meticulously delved into Plevako's biography, analyzing his cases and courtroom rhetoric. A pivotal figure in this endeavor was Bezrukov’s wife, Anna Matison, who not only directed but also penned the screenplay for the series.

Bezrukov noted that while the series encapsulated all of Plevako’s landmark cases, the limitation of ten episodes inevitably meant that not every story could be told. Each episode begins with an anecdote, setting the tone, and wraps up with a celebrated speech by the attorney. This structure establishes a distinctive rhythm in storytelling, blending historical fidelity with artistic imagination.

The Plot: More Than Just a Whodunit

"Plevako" transcends being merely a historical detective tale. At its core lies not only the protagonist’s professional journey but also a glimpse into his personal affairs, particularly his complex relationship with Maria Demidova. This romantic subplot enriches the narrative, allowing a broader audience to resonate with the content. While the authors infused creative elements into the storyline, they preserved the essence of the era and the historical authenticity of key events.

Troitsk’s Significance and the Memory of Plevako

Within the narrative framework of the series, Troitsk holds a uniquely prominent position. The concluding episode features the Holy Trinity Cathedral, where Fyodor Plevako was honored with the title of honorary citizen of the city. Additionally, viewers are shown a photo album showcasing the beautiful Ural landscapes, currently housed in a local museum. The dwelling where Plevako lived still stands today, albeit in private ownership. Local officials and activists have frequently raised the question of establishing a museum dedicated to Plevako, while a memorial plaque has been installed at the municipal building to commemorate the illustrious attorney.

The Cultural Legacy of Plevako

Fyodor Plevako's name is immortalized beyond the cinematic realm. In Russia, medals bearing his name have been instituted, awarded for significant contributions to legal advocacy. Plans are underway in Chelyabinsk to erect a monument in honor of the attorney, marking yet another step toward preserving his legacy.

Closure

The series "Plevako" is more than mere entertainment; it pays homage to an individual who carved an indelible mark in the annals of Russian history. Thanks to the extraordinary efforts of the production team, directed by Anna Matison and led by actor Sergey Bezrukov, audiences are invited not just to relish an engaging narrative but also to touch upon a rich cultural legacy. This project illustrates the profound impact art can have in rekindling interest in the great personalities of our past, inspiring a new generation to explore the history of their nation.