The first part of this two parter "Manhattan Transfer" was a very good episode and one of the better faring ones of the latter half of Season 17. Not a perfect episode, with a couple of things that don't quite come off but when it works it is truly excellent. Memories of "Unholiest Alliance" were extremely positive and that it was a very powerful and memorable episode, the episodes that fit those adjectives is very good sign of when the show is on form.
Re-watching "Unholiest Alliance" not long after "Manhattan Transfer", my thoughts are still extremely positive and actually found it an even better experience than the previous times. While liking "Manhattan Transfer" very much, this is even better and even more powerful. Containing all the great things of that episode yet executes them even better, while also having even more great things. One of the best episodes of Season 17.
My only issue is that it did try to cram a little too much towards the end.
"Unholiest Alliance" otherwise is excellent. It looks good, with the usual slickness and subtle grit. Really liked too that the photography was simple and close up but doing so without being claustrophobic. The music has presence when used, and luckily it isn't constant, and when it is used it doesn't feel over-scored. The direction is controlled but also tight. The script is thought provoking and doesn't ramble, while also having edge and tact.
Story-wise, this is even more sinister and more tear and anger inducing than "Manhattan Transfer". It is a topic that is in need of addressing as it certainly is not dated, and what is scary is that it does happen. It is not unrealistic at all. We also don't have to worry about Olivias fundamental errors that compromised the case in the first part, which stuck out too much.
Peter Scanivino is splendid here, in a Carisi-heavy case where one sees how it affects him, and Robert John Burke's reaction in regard to Eugene is very believable. Carisi's hurt and shock at this breaks the heart, underneath all that straight talking carisi really does have a heart.
In conclusion, excellent. 9/10.
Re-watching "Unholiest Alliance" not long after "Manhattan Transfer", my thoughts are still extremely positive and actually found it an even better experience than the previous times. While liking "Manhattan Transfer" very much, this is even better and even more powerful. Containing all the great things of that episode yet executes them even better, while also having even more great things. One of the best episodes of Season 17.
My only issue is that it did try to cram a little too much towards the end.
"Unholiest Alliance" otherwise is excellent. It looks good, with the usual slickness and subtle grit. Really liked too that the photography was simple and close up but doing so without being claustrophobic. The music has presence when used, and luckily it isn't constant, and when it is used it doesn't feel over-scored. The direction is controlled but also tight. The script is thought provoking and doesn't ramble, while also having edge and tact.
Story-wise, this is even more sinister and more tear and anger inducing than "Manhattan Transfer". It is a topic that is in need of addressing as it certainly is not dated, and what is scary is that it does happen. It is not unrealistic at all. We also don't have to worry about Olivias fundamental errors that compromised the case in the first part, which stuck out too much.
Peter Scanivino is splendid here, in a Carisi-heavy case where one sees how it affects him, and Robert John Burke's reaction in regard to Eugene is very believable. Carisi's hurt and shock at this breaks the heart, underneath all that straight talking carisi really does have a heart.
In conclusion, excellent. 9/10.