'Law and Order' may not have been in its absolute prime yet, understandable though as it was still early days at this point. The pre-Briscoe seasons and episodes were still good though, with some fine episodes and not really any that one would call a misfire. It is a shame that the early seasons and episodes are not aired more often, as the show was a lot better in its early years in my opinion but neglected in favour of late and post-Briscoe.
Along with "Confession", "Asylum", "God Bless the Child" and "Heaven" (as far as the previous second season episodes go that is), "Vengeance" for me was one of the standout episodes of Season 2. Which was as an overall whole nearly as good as the first season with a couple of improvements, with even the weakest episodes still being quite good, yet not with as many brilliant episodes and not being as settled oddly enough (with having to adjust to a good deal of change). "Vengeance" is one of the season's brilliant outings, with interesting characters, memorable exchanges, some of the season's best writing and acting and a case that leaves one riveted and shocked.
The acting for one thing is terrific, with Michael Moriarty and Richard Brooks giving some of their finest acting of the show with their chemistry being scintillating and adding so much to the impact of their exchanges. Paul Sorvino and Chris Noth also give taut performances and their interaction has come on a lot since the beginning of the season. Commanding Allen Garfield and affecting Barbara Berrie are strong in support, but along with Moriarty the standout performance comes from James Rebhorn. One doesn't expect the type of character he plays to be acted with so much understatement and it is understated acting that evokes both chills and pathos.
"Vengeance" is remarkable for its depiction of interrogation, one of agreed the few 'Law and Order' episodes to properly with full impact show what interrogations are like without going too far. Stone and Robinette's exchanges are powerfully written, standing out in an episode full of some of the season's most emotionally impactful and tightest writing, and raises many intriguing questions about such a difficult subject handled with tension and sensitivity. It's difficult to not root for the parents and Cheney is an interesting character that is more complex than one expects for a suspected serial killer. The story always compels, is never obvious and never feels confused.
Have no qualms with the production values, as slick as ever. Or with the music, not intrusive or overscored even in revelation moments. Or the sympathetic direction.
In conclusion, brilliant and a Season 2 high point. 10/10
Along with "Confession", "Asylum", "God Bless the Child" and "Heaven" (as far as the previous second season episodes go that is), "Vengeance" for me was one of the standout episodes of Season 2. Which was as an overall whole nearly as good as the first season with a couple of improvements, with even the weakest episodes still being quite good, yet not with as many brilliant episodes and not being as settled oddly enough (with having to adjust to a good deal of change). "Vengeance" is one of the season's brilliant outings, with interesting characters, memorable exchanges, some of the season's best writing and acting and a case that leaves one riveted and shocked.
The acting for one thing is terrific, with Michael Moriarty and Richard Brooks giving some of their finest acting of the show with their chemistry being scintillating and adding so much to the impact of their exchanges. Paul Sorvino and Chris Noth also give taut performances and their interaction has come on a lot since the beginning of the season. Commanding Allen Garfield and affecting Barbara Berrie are strong in support, but along with Moriarty the standout performance comes from James Rebhorn. One doesn't expect the type of character he plays to be acted with so much understatement and it is understated acting that evokes both chills and pathos.
"Vengeance" is remarkable for its depiction of interrogation, one of agreed the few 'Law and Order' episodes to properly with full impact show what interrogations are like without going too far. Stone and Robinette's exchanges are powerfully written, standing out in an episode full of some of the season's most emotionally impactful and tightest writing, and raises many intriguing questions about such a difficult subject handled with tension and sensitivity. It's difficult to not root for the parents and Cheney is an interesting character that is more complex than one expects for a suspected serial killer. The story always compels, is never obvious and never feels confused.
Have no qualms with the production values, as slick as ever. Or with the music, not intrusive or overscored even in revelation moments. Or the sympathetic direction.
In conclusion, brilliant and a Season 2 high point. 10/10