Explore "Plevako": A Unique Legal Drama from Russia

Amidst the plethora of new offerings on Russian television in 2024, Plevako stands out as a remarkable series that has captured the audience's imagination. Premiering on the streaming platform Premier, this legal drama is rooted in the life of one of the most illustrious attorneys of the Russian Empire, Fyodor Plevako, famously nicknamed the "Moscow Glibert." The role of the lawyer, cleverly transformed into Nikolai Fyodorovich, is portrayed by the talented Sergey Bezrukov, with the innovative Anna Matison at the director’s helm—renowned for her meticulous attention to detail and her collaborative kinship with the actor.

Plot Foundation: History, Biography, and Artistic License

Fyodor Plevako is a figure imprinted in the annals of Russian history, often cloaked in legend. His speeches have inspired admiration, while his legal practice has been examined by countless generations of lawyers. However, the creators of this series have chosen not to provide a meticulously accurate portrayal of the historical character. Instead, they’ve forged a fictional representation named Nikolai Fyodorovich Plevako. This creative choice affords the screenwriters a degree of flexibility in interpreting events, allowing them to preserve the essence of the era and the uniqueness of the protagonist while infusing the narrative with inventive elements that broaden its appeal to a general audience.

The initial episodes adeptly illustrate the balance between historical fact and fictional embellishment. In one pivotal scene, Bezrukov’s character defends an elderly woman accused of stealing a teapot. His rhetoric weaves echoes of Russia’s age-old struggles against the Pechenegs and Polovtsians, resonating with authentic speeches given by Plevako in real life. This crafting not only bridges connections to contemporary memes and pop culture but also enriches the viewing experience. However, historical documents dispute some details of this narrative, suggesting that the speech may have actually pertained to a silver coffee pot instead of a teapot, with its essence markedly different.

Plevako as a Cultural Phenomenon

The enigma surrounding Plevako has always ignited curiosity. His origins are shrouded in mystery: while some claim he was the son of a Polish revolutionary and a Kalmyk woman, others question the veracity of these claims, citing unreliable sources. In the series, the character is explicitly depicted as part Kalmyk, a fact accentuated through the incorporation of Kalmyk language and traditional dances—an audacious and fresh move in Russian cinema.

Comparisons with Other Works

Director Anna Matison, who is also Bezrukov’s wife, is noted for her scrupulous approach to screenplay development in her films. In Plevako, noticeable influences from classic legal dramas mingle with elements borrowed from diverse genres. For instance, scenes set on Moscow’s Kitai-Gorod—where the hero engages in bare-knuckle fights—evoke films reminiscent of Guy Ritchie’s storytelling style. These interludes inject dynamism into the series, rendering it appealing not only to courtroom drama aficionados but also to enthusiasts of crime dramas.

Interestingly, Bezrukov’s character aligns with the image and intellectual charisma of another revered persona—Erast Fandorin from Boris Akunin's novels. These parallels elevate the series into a realm of intellectual and cultural significance—a quality particularly prized by discerning viewers.

The Cast

Sergey Bezrukov has long established himself as a master of transformation, and his portrayal of Nikolai Fyodorovich Plevako serves as further testament to his acting prowess. Alongside him, the series boasts talented actors such as Nikolai Shraiber, Olga Lerman, Igor Gordin, and others who effectively breathe life into vibrant and memorable characters. Noteworthy attention is given to the era's atmosphere, which is beautifully conveyed through costumes, set designs, and the dialogue of the characters.

Thematic Content and Social Context

The series provokes essential questions: What does it mean to be just? Is it possible to unearth truth within the courtroom? How can the art of legal rhetoric influence the destinies of individuals? Bezrukov’s character frequently grapples with moral dilemmas, striving to uphold his clients' interests while maintaining personal integrity.

Why You Should Watch Plevako

Plevako is not merely a tale of a gifted lawyer. It endeavors to rethink Russian history, its cultural roots, and the timeless quandaries surrounding justice. The unique storytelling style, a fusion of legal drama with action elements, coupled with exceptional performances, makes it a standout event in the realm of contemporary television.

For those intrigued by history, culture, and psychology, Plevako promises to be a genuine treasure trove.