The character of Zach Nichols didn't do much for me in his first two episodes, neither of which doing much for me as episodes. My problem does not lie with Jeff Goldblum but the writing. In the next two though, my opinion on him completely changed and the episodes in question were also much better. Serena Stevens was a bit mixed for me as a character and it did depend on the material, the chemistry between her and Nichols was never non-existent but it didn't ignite in the same way Goren and Eames' did.
As far as the rather hit and miss Season 9 goes, "Disciple" is one of the better episodes. As well as one of the darkest in terms of the subject matter. It was great also to see some meat and development to Stevens and for her to shine properly for the first time. It is not one of the very best episodes of 'Criminal Intent', but it is one of the best of the season and in the better half of the episodes from the Nichols (Seasons 8 and 9) period.
"Disciple" did get a little too over-complicated towards the end from trying to cram in too much.
Still not sold on Mary Elizabeth Mastrontonio either and Callas was never the most compelling character.
However, so much about "Disciple" is great. It is a visually slick episode, typical for 'Criminal Intent' and the 'Law and Order' franchise, and one with the right amount of muted grit, the photography doesn't try to do anything too fancy or gimmicky while not being claustrophobic and keeping things simple. The music doesn't overbear past the early stages with the theme tune still memorable and the direction is accommodating yet tight enough.
Moreover, the script is thoughtful and intriguing, never feeling too talky or like it was trying to be too clever. The story is very engaging and has a dark tension and plenty to keep one guessing. The cast perform to a very good standard and Saffron Burrows gives perhaps her best performance here of her stint on the show.
On the whole, very good. 8/10.
