Pre-strike: Covering the usual suspects (the mentally ill, gangsters from the 'hood, and other such shady characters), this show continued to intrigue me with its twists and turns, plots and subplots. Sometimes predictable, but nonetheless enjoyable.
The pre-strike topics were relatable and nothing was off-limits. Issues covered were similar to what I read in Canadian news headlines over breakfast. Cultural barriers, homelessness, war, fertility and science, the Internet … you get the idea.
Post-strike: Although this show has never been what you'd would call a happily-ever-after bedtime story, I find the new episodes way too graphic, and to be honest, downright scary. Whether this is a result of the writers being back at work flexing their rusty creative skills or not, I can’t say. But what I can tell you is that I am not a fan. I actually find myself watching a lot of the show post-strike through my fingers, covering my eyes half the time. I think I might be abandoning Law & Order: SVU and kicking it old school with the more tame episodes of Law & Order, the original.
Character Development: Detective Benson seems to be trading in her all-business, "solve the case and move on" attitude for a softer, more sensitive one. As disgusting as it was to watch her almost get raped in jail, I think this close call will make her even more personally involved in her cases from now on. I’m curious whether this will affect her ability to handle SVU cases. I suppose time will tell …
Cliffhangers/Wrap Up: It’s a classic story of the one that got away, and I don’t mean in the romantic sense. For the first time in a long time, Benson and Stabler didn’t get their man. They were outwitted by Merritt Rook (a brilliant performance by guest star Robin Williams, I might add), and I can’t wait to see where he turns up next.
Overall Grade:
