"In the Wee Small Hours" really does stand out among 'Law and Order: Criminal Intent's' episodes (195 in number over 10 seasons). It's the show's first two parter, and a rare instance for 'Criminal Intent' of seeing not one but two lead detective partnerships (not just Goren and Eames but Logan and Barek as well) working together to solve the same case. Something that had not been done before, and it did interest to see how such different partnerships would fare together.
The previous Season 5 episodes mostly ranged from very good to outstanding, with the only disappointment being "Unchained". Both parts of "In the Wee Small Hours" are among the best of the season. The chemistry between the four leads works remarkably well and the two parter fleshes them out individually with insight and sensitivity, complete with a hugely compelling story throughout. The first part is truly great, setting up events beautifully without taking too long to do so or feeling too padded.
Goren again does feel a little subdued in involvement, he's more himself in the second part. By all means he is still a great character here and his hard boiled edge and compassion are evident what also appealed about him were his comic timing and neuroses which were more apparent in other episodes. When it comes to minor flaws though that is pretty much it.
Absolutely loved how the characters were written. Eames is particularly well done, showing that there is a softer side amongst the sassy wisecracks. Logan and Barek are true to character and while not as charismatic as Goren and Eames they didn't come over as dull to me. All four gel remarkably well, was very worried that there would be too much personality clashing and too much of a disconnect of which team is more interesting but those worries were put to one side quickly. The supporting characters are intriguing though would become meatier later. It is great that Carver has a bigger role after being underused for too long. The acting is uniformly great, lead and supporting.
Furthermore, "In the Wee Small Hours: Part 1" is shot with the right amount of intimacy without being claustrophobic and that the editing has become increasingly tighter over-time has been great too. Nice use of locations too. The music doesn't get over-scored or overwrought, even in the more dramatic revelation moments. The direction doesn't try to do too much and is understated but never flat or unsure. The writing is intelligent and although, like the show in general, there is a lot of talk it doesn't feel long-winded. The story is always compelling, with a lot happening and with a good deal of surprises already. It definitely makes one want to see the second part.
Overall, great first part to one of the season's best. 9/10