Exploring Troitsk Through the Lens of 'Plevako'
The launch of the television series "Plevako" marked a significant milestone in Russian cinema. This ten-episode historical drama, skillfully crafted in the detective genre, unveils the life and professional journey of one of Russia's greatest lawyers—Fiodor Nikiforovich Plevako. The series premiere, held in Troitsk, not only introduced the initial episodes of this exceptional narrative but also transported audiences back to the meticulously recreated atmosphere of the 19th century.
Troitsk: A City-Museum as the Filming Stage
The choice of Troitsk as a primary filming location was no accident. Nestled in the Southern Ural region, this city is Plevako's birthplace. Here, amidst the architectural backdrop from the late 19th to early 20th centuries, the essence of merchant Moscow was recreated. Alexey Teksler, the Governor of Chelyabinsk Oblast, who wholeheartedly endorsed this project, noted that Troitsk is akin to an open-air museum. The quaint streets, historic buildings, and authentic ambiance aligned beautifully with the series' artistic vision.
The local residents played a pivotal role in the filming, stepping into the limelight as extras in numerous scenes. The lead actor, Sergey Bezrukov, expressed his genuine admiration for the townspeople, referring to them as one of the most caring and sincere groups he had the pleasure of working with.
The Genius of Jurisprudence as the Story's Core
Fiodor Plevako stands as a towering figure symbolizing the greatness of Russian legal advocacy in the 19th century. Born under challenging circumstances, as an illegitimate child, he faced numerous societal restrictions. Yet, he rose to become a name synonymous with humanism and legal mastery. Over his illustrious career, Plevako won over 200 legal battles, including some exceptionally complex trials. His courtroom oratory, often beginning with a light-hearted joke, became a benchmark of eloquence. Even in cases where his clients were clearly guilty, he had a knack for unearthing arguments that would lead to their acquittal.
Sergey Bezrukov's Approach to the Character
Renowned Russian artist Sergey Bezrukov embodied Plevako with profound respect and admiration. He referred to the lawyer as the "Pushkin of jurisprudence" due to his unique talents and contributions to human rights advocacy. To truly inhabit this role, Bezrukov immersed himself in Plevako's biography, studying his legal cases and courtroom speeches in detail. A crucial element of the project was the involvement of Bezrukov's wife, Anna Matison, who took the helm as the director and screenwriter of the series.
Bezrukov highlighted that all of Plevako's landmark cases were woven into the series’ storyline, although the natural limitation of ten episodes constrained the narrative scope. Each episode kicks off with a humorous anecdote, setting an engaging tone, and concludes with a compelling speech from Plevako, rendering a unique rhythm that intertwines historical accuracy with creative storytelling.
The Series Plot: More Than Just a Detective Story
"Plevako" transcends the boundaries of a mere historical detective. While the main plot revolves around Plevako's professional life, it also delves into his personal affairs, particularly his intricate relationship with Maria Demidova. This romantic subplot enriches the narrative, balancing the investigative elements and making the series appealing to a broader audience. The writers infused artistic creativity into the storyline, maintaining the spirit of the era and the historical authenticity of pivotal events.
Troitsk's Role in Preserving Plevako's Legacy
In the series, Troitsk assumes a significant role. Viewers are treated to a glimpse of the Holy Trinity Cathedral, which honored Fiodor Plevako with the title of honorary citizen of the city. Additionally, the series features a photo album showcasing stunning views of the Ural region, preserved within the local museum. In reality, the house where the lawyer lived remains intact, although it is privately owned. Local officials and activists have often raised the idea of establishing a museum dedicated to Plevako, and a memorial plaque has already been installed at the city administration to commemorate this eminent lawyer.
Cultural Legacy of Plevako
Fiodor Plevako's legacy extends beyond the realm of cinema. In Russia, medals bearing his name have been established, awarded for notable contributions to human rights advocacy. Plans are underway to erect a statue in Chelyabinsk honoring the lawyer, marking another step towards securing his commemorative legacy.
End
The series "Plevako" is not just a cinematic tale; it serves as a tribute to a remarkable individual who left an indelible mark on the history of Russia. With the efforts of the filming team, director Anna Matison, and actor Sergey Bezrukov, audiences can relish an engaging storyline while connecting with the rich cultural heritage. This project exemplifies how art can reignite interest in the great figures of the past and inspire a new generation to explore the history of their homeland.