Exploring Troitsk: The Birthplace of Plevako
The series "Plevako" emerged as a remarkable milestone in the landscape of Russian cinema. This ten-part historical drama, infused with elements of detective storytelling, elegantly chronicles the life and illustrious career of one of Russia’s most renowned lawyers, Fyodor Nikiforovich Plevako. The premiere of the series, hosted in Troitsk, not only unveiled the initial episodes of this captivating narrative but also allowed the audience to immerse themselves in the richly recreated atmosphere of the 19th century.
Troitsk: A City-Museum as a Filming Location
Troitsk was carefully selected to serve as one of the pivotal filming locations for good reason. Nestled in the South Urals, this city is the birthplace of Plevako. The set designers meticulously crafted a version of merchant Moscow using architectural backdrops from the late 19th to early 20th centuries. The governor of the Chelyabinsk region, Alexey Texler, who championed the filming initiative, remarked that Troitsk is akin to a museum under the open sky. The city's charming streets, age-old buildings, and authentic ambiance blended seamlessly into the artistic vision of the series.
Local residents played an integral role in the filming process, featuring as characters in the various crowd scenes. Sergey Bezrukov, who donned the iconic role of Plevako, expressed genuine awe for the people of Troitsk, praising their warmth and sincerity, and describing them as one of the most caring and genuine groups he had ever worked alongside.
A Legal Genius at the Heart of the Story
Fyodor Plevako embodies the grandeur of 19th-century Russian advocacy. Born under challenging circumstances as an illegitimate child, he faced numerous social constraints yet rose to prominence, becoming a symbol of humanism and mastery in legal practice. Throughout his illustrious career, Plevako triumphantly won over 200 court cases, tackling some of the most intricate legal battles. His courtroom orations, often commencing with a clever anecdote, became exemplary models of oratory prowess. He had an uncanny ability to construct compelling arguments, even in cases where his clients' guilt seemed irrefutable, leading to their acquittal.
Crafting the Character: Sergey Bezrukov’s Approach
The role of Plevako was brought to life by Sergey Bezrukov, a celebrated People's Artist of Russia, who approached the character with profound respect and admiration. He referred to the lawyer as the "Pushkin of jurisprudence" due to his remarkable talent and impact in the field of legal defense. To fully embody the character, Bezrukov committed himself to a thorough exploration of Plevako's biography, his cases, and courtroom speeches. A significant influence on the project was Bezrukov’s wife, Anna Matison, who took the helm as both director and screenwriter for the series.
Bezrukov conveyed that all pivotal cases involving Plevako found their way into the narrative, though the limitation of ten episodes confined the breadth of what could be showcased. Each episode opens with an amusing anecdote that sets the tone and concludes with a famous speech from the lawyer, creating a unique rhythm that marries historical accuracy with artistic flair.
Plot of the Series: More Than Just a Detective Story
"Plevako" transcends the label of mere historical detective drama. The story intricately weaves not only the professional undertakings of the protagonist but also delves into his personal life, featuring his complex relationship with Maria Demidova. The romantic subplot complements the detective elements, enhancing the series' appeal to a wide range of viewers. The creators artfully infused fictional elements into the narrative, while remaining true to the spirit and historical authenticity of the era’s landmark events.
Troitsk and the Legacy of Plevako
In the series, Troitsk holds a distinctive significance. The final episode showcases the Holy Trinity Cathedral, where Fyodor Plevako was honored as an esteemed citizen of the city. Viewers will also glimpse a photo album featuring scenes of the Urals, safeguarded within a local museum. The actual house where Plevako lived still stands today, despite its current status as private property. Local officials and activists have frequently advocated for the establishment of a museum dedicated to Plevako, and a memorial plaque commemorating the distinguished lawyer has already been affixed to the city’s administration building.
Cultural Heritage of Plevako
The legacy of Fyodor Plevako has been immortalized not only in film but also through various honors awarded in his name for outstanding contributions to human rights advocacy throughout Russia. Moreover, plans to erect a statue in Chelyabinsk will further cement his memory as a pivotal figure in the legal landscape.
Culmination
The series "Plevako" stands as more than just a cinematic portrayal; it is a tribute to an individual who has left an indelible mark on the history of Russia. Thanks to the dedicated filmmaking team, under the direction of Anna Matison, and the charismatic portrayal by Sergey Bezrukov, audiences are presented not only with an engaging story but also a touching connection to their cultural heritage. This project exemplifies how art can rekindle interest in the great figures of the past and inspire a new generation to delve into the history of their nation.