The premise for "Faith" sounded very interesting, although it was dealing with a subject and a premise that would have to be dealt with carefully and as realistically as possible in order to not cause offense or controversy. Something that would not as easy as one may think. This premise, and this subject matter, was reason enough to see the episode, as well as loving 'Law and Order: Criminal Intent' as a show.
"Faith" to me is a very good, if not quite great, episode. Mind you it is not one of the best episodes of Season 1 or of 'Law and Order: Criminal Intent' in general. It is also for me a step down from the excellent/brilliant previous two episodes, which were season high-points, "Maledictus" and especially "Badge" (the latter having one of the show's best guest supporting turns, from Viola Davis, and Goren on top form).
Will admit to not completely buying the motive for the murder, which would have made more sense if the murderer was complicit in the other crime as well.
Some of the early portions of "Faith" are a touch on the confusing side, like trying to figure out who was who at first.
However, the case always compels and never feels obvious. Or at least not overly-so and there is nothing here that should cause offense. The subject is handled with tact and really does hit home, especially for anybody who has been in similar situations. One thing that did strike me was when the truth with the girl was revealed and seeing the realisation dawn on those affected (anybody who has been in similar situations will feel exactly the same), it is something that still happens with upsetting results and it is horrifying to see how easily deceit happens. The way the truth is gotten to and how the responsible's caught is both tense and somewhat sad.
Goren never fails to fascinate, with some great dialogue like when on the phone. One of the best lines of "Faith" belongs to Eames, regarding not doubting the existence of JD Salinger. Love the two together, and their beautifully contrasted chemistry (he more eccentric and hard-boiled, she softer and more subtle). Vincent D'Onofrio and Kathryn Erbe cannot be faulted, nor can the supporting cast even if nobody is quite on exceptional level. The script is tight and thought-provoking, while the production values, music and direction are all fine.
In summation, very good. With a clearer beginning and a easier-to-follow motive it would have been great. 8/10
"Faith" to me is a very good, if not quite great, episode. Mind you it is not one of the best episodes of Season 1 or of 'Law and Order: Criminal Intent' in general. It is also for me a step down from the excellent/brilliant previous two episodes, which were season high-points, "Maledictus" and especially "Badge" (the latter having one of the show's best guest supporting turns, from Viola Davis, and Goren on top form).
Will admit to not completely buying the motive for the murder, which would have made more sense if the murderer was complicit in the other crime as well.
Some of the early portions of "Faith" are a touch on the confusing side, like trying to figure out who was who at first.
However, the case always compels and never feels obvious. Or at least not overly-so and there is nothing here that should cause offense. The subject is handled with tact and really does hit home, especially for anybody who has been in similar situations. One thing that did strike me was when the truth with the girl was revealed and seeing the realisation dawn on those affected (anybody who has been in similar situations will feel exactly the same), it is something that still happens with upsetting results and it is horrifying to see how easily deceit happens. The way the truth is gotten to and how the responsible's caught is both tense and somewhat sad.
Goren never fails to fascinate, with some great dialogue like when on the phone. One of the best lines of "Faith" belongs to Eames, regarding not doubting the existence of JD Salinger. Love the two together, and their beautifully contrasted chemistry (he more eccentric and hard-boiled, she softer and more subtle). Vincent D'Onofrio and Kathryn Erbe cannot be faulted, nor can the supporting cast even if nobody is quite on exceptional level. The script is tight and thought-provoking, while the production values, music and direction are all fine.
In summation, very good. With a clearer beginning and a easier-to-follow motive it would have been great. 8/10