One can tell from the plot synopsis and even the title that "Disciple" was not going to be an easy watch, quite the opposite. Also if one knows of the original 'Law and Order's', and the 'Law and Order' franchise's, reputation of exploring heavy topics in an uncompromising way. It was certainly of no surprise to me that this was not going to be an easy watch, especially as the show and some other shows had episodes with a similar feel, even when the subject was not the same.
"Disciple" is another very good episode of 'Law and Order' and of Season 9. It is not one of the best outings from Season 9 (nor is it one of the worst), but although there are imperfections there are many truly excellent qualities as well with "Disciple". The subject matter is not easy and any case where religion plays a large part in it has potential traps (as bringing religion into discussing heavy topics can be touchy territory), but although not executed perfectly "Disciple's" handling of it was better than expected.
Like some 'Law and Order' episodes around this point, "Disciple" is a little on the routine side to begin with.
Also felt that while the sentiment was completely understandable and agreed with the whole not wanting the perpetrator out on the streets part was on the heavy handed side.
Everything else is very strong. On a visual level, the episode is solid and the intimacy of the photography doesn't get static or too filmed play-like. The music when used is not too over-emphatic and has a melancholic edge that is quite haunting. The direction is sympathetic enough without being leaden, while having enough momentum to make the drama sing in its atmosphere. The acting is very good, especially in the legal scenes. Frances Conroy definitely unsettles.
Script is tight and has always made me think long and hard after (most 'Law and Order' episodes do), with grit, class and tact. The story is absorbing and hard hitting, with an unforgettable cross examination scene (one of McCoy's greatest). The moral dilemmas of the case are handled very thoughtfully and despite the danger of doing so the religious element of the story isn't shoved too much down the throat.
In summary, very good. 8/10.
"Disciple" is another very good episode of 'Law and Order' and of Season 9. It is not one of the best outings from Season 9 (nor is it one of the worst), but although there are imperfections there are many truly excellent qualities as well with "Disciple". The subject matter is not easy and any case where religion plays a large part in it has potential traps (as bringing religion into discussing heavy topics can be touchy territory), but although not executed perfectly "Disciple's" handling of it was better than expected.
Like some 'Law and Order' episodes around this point, "Disciple" is a little on the routine side to begin with.
Also felt that while the sentiment was completely understandable and agreed with the whole not wanting the perpetrator out on the streets part was on the heavy handed side.
Everything else is very strong. On a visual level, the episode is solid and the intimacy of the photography doesn't get static or too filmed play-like. The music when used is not too over-emphatic and has a melancholic edge that is quite haunting. The direction is sympathetic enough without being leaden, while having enough momentum to make the drama sing in its atmosphere. The acting is very good, especially in the legal scenes. Frances Conroy definitely unsettles.
Script is tight and has always made me think long and hard after (most 'Law and Order' episodes do), with grit, class and tact. The story is absorbing and hard hitting, with an unforgettable cross examination scene (one of McCoy's greatest). The moral dilemmas of the case are handled very thoughtfully and despite the danger of doing so the religious element of the story isn't shoved too much down the throat.
In summary, very good. 8/10.
