Explore the Captivating Story of 'Plevako'
In November 2024, audiences were invited to delve into the enthralling realm of courtroom dramas and historical reinterpretations with the new series "Plevako." This ambitious project, inspired by the life of the renowned lawyer of the Russian Empire, Fyodor Plevako, captured widespread interest from its very first episodes. Viewers were captivated by the series's compelling atmosphere, impressive cast, and distinctive directorial approach.
Who Was Plevako?
Fyodor Nikiforovich Plevako, often referred to as the "Moscow Golden Tongue," was one of the most celebrated attorneys during the Russian Empire. His name became synonymous with eloquent courtroom speeches—powerful enough not only to sway judges but also to touch the souls of listeners. However, the series presents an alternate depiction of this historical figure. The main character, Nikolai Fyodorovich Plevako, is portrayed as a fictional character inspired by real events, designed to fit a dramatic narrative.
The creators of the show were quick to clarify: their project is not a verbatim recreation of historical events but an artistic reimagination. This interpretative approach afforded the writers and director Anna Matison—who happens to be the wife of the lead actor Sergey Bezrukov—the freedom to expand the storyline and infuse elements that make the series contemporary and engaging.
Plot and Atmosphere
The series opens with one of the most famous tales attributed to Fyodor Plevako: the defense of a poor old lady accused of stealing a teapot. In the show's rendition, this moment transforms from a mere narrative element into a powerful introduction to the protagonist's character. Plevako, brought to life by Bezrukov, delivers his argument with irony and grandeur, drawing parallels between historical tragedies faced by Russia and the plight of his client. This scene not only introduces audiences to the central character but also underscores the overarching theme of the series: justice ought to be grounded in humanity and compassion.
Yet, the series doesn't merely confine itself to the courtroom. The creators skillfully exploit the genre's potential, incorporating dynamic sequences set in Moscow's notorious Khitrovka, where the hero engages in bare-knuckle fights, alongside stylistic elements reminiscent of Guy Ritchie’s films: slow-motion shots, unexpected plot twists, and vibrant secondary characters. These inventive scenes inject energy into the narrative, making "Plevako" appealing not just to history buffs but also to action-drama enthusiasts.
Rich Historical Context
The series taps into the profound and intricate historical heritage of Russia. Plevako's persona is enveloped in numerous myths and contradictions, granting the writers ample room for creativity. For instance, the origins of the lawyer remain unclear; some sources suggest that his father was a Polish revolutionary while his mother was a Kalmyk. Conversely, other investigations dismiss this notion in favor of less romantic yet more realistic hypotheses. The creators opted for the Kalmyk narrative, rendering scenes with Kalmyk dialogue (with subtitles) and even featuring traditional dances.
Bezrukov in the Lead Role
Sergey Bezrukov, acclaimed for his ability to seamlessly inhabit roles, once again astounded viewers with his performance. His Plevako is depicted not merely as a brilliant lawyer, but also as a charismatic leader endowed with a rare blend of intellect, charm, and warmth. Bezrukov masterfully captures the delicate balance between the protagonist's professional confidence and his internal doubts, crafting a character that is both complex and multidimensional.
As director, Anna Matison effectively highlights her husband’s performance. This is not their first collaboration, and their joint creative endeavor in "Plevako" has reached new heights. The synergy between the director and the actor allowed for a comprehensive exploration of the lead character, which is particularly significant for a legal drama.
A Strong Ensemble Cast
Alongside Bezrukov, the series features a talented array of actors, including Nikolai Shrayber, Olga Lerman, Igor Gordin, Maria Smolnikova, Zoya Berber, and others. Each of their characters contributes to creating an authentic atmosphere of the era, where every case becomes a mini-drama, and each episode unfolds as a separate narrative.
Balance of Fiction and Reality
Despite the fictional nature of many plotlines, the series strives to maintain the spirit of the times. Viewers will not only witness domestic details from the 19th century but will also confront questions relevant to contemporary society: What does justice mean? How can one balance personal beliefs with societal norms?
The show's creators acknowledge that their endeavor is more of a dramatic experiment than a documentary project. Yet, this very quality renders "Plevako" unique. Unlike traditional historical films, the series boldly experiments with genres, blending elements of detective fiction, drama, and action.
The Future of the Series
Comprising ten episodes, each lasting 52 minutes, the series has already demonstrated its appeal to both audiences and critics alike following its initial episodes. Produced by the film studio "ROK," with supporting collaborations from the Internet Development Institute, the NTV channel, and the Premier platform, it promises to be one of the standout highlights of the television season.