"Refuge Part 1" was an outstanding first part to Season 9's two part finale and (well the two parter in general) a fine example of how to do something special with something that sounds familiar on paper, which prime-'Law and Order' was very good at frequently. Also consider it one of the best episodes of Season 9. Part 2 follows on directly from the truly shocking and tragic events of Part 1 and with none of the tension or emotion the climactic parts of the first part being lost.
Of the two parts of "Refuge", both are brilliant and both are among the standouts of Season 9. But if asked which part gets the marginal edge of being better, that would go to the more complex, more eventful and even more suspenseful Part 2. "Refuge Part 2" does so well following on from before and building upon what was set up to even more tense and emotional effect. Anybody still reeling from the end of Part 1 are not, as a word of warning, going to get much of a break emotionally, from as early on as the very beginning the second part tears at the emotions every bit as strongly.
All components are executed brilliantly here in "Refuge Part 2". The production values are 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 while also taut.
The script is typically, certainly for mid-years 'Law and Order', tight and thoughtful, the intrigue is never lost and although it is talk heavy it never becomes long winded. The story once again is full of twists and turns, none expected and they are far from simple while not being convoluted. Something that is easy for an episode with this much content to be. The suspense and the dread that is obvious all the way to the end is unnerving, right from the truly harrowing beginning.
Character writing and interaction are spot on, especially in the second half, and the acting again is terrific with the regulars doing no wrong. Despite preferring Logan and Green when it comes to Briscoe's partners, it was sad saying goodbye to Curtis but at least it was not a rushed, indifferent or last minute exit.
In conclusion, outstanding second part and what a way to end Season 9. 10/10.
Of the two parts of "Refuge", both are brilliant and both are among the standouts of Season 9. But if asked which part gets the marginal edge of being better, that would go to the more complex, more eventful and even more suspenseful Part 2. "Refuge Part 2" does so well following on from before and building upon what was set up to even more tense and emotional effect. Anybody still reeling from the end of Part 1 are not, as a word of warning, going to get much of a break emotionally, from as early on as the very beginning the second part tears at the emotions every bit as strongly.
All components are executed brilliantly here in "Refuge Part 2". The production values are 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 while also taut.
The script is typically, certainly for mid-years 'Law and Order', tight and thoughtful, the intrigue is never lost and although it is talk heavy it never becomes long winded. The story once again is full of twists and turns, none expected and they are far from simple while not being convoluted. Something that is easy for an episode with this much content to be. The suspense and the dread that is obvious all the way to the end is unnerving, right from the truly harrowing beginning.
Character writing and interaction are spot on, especially in the second half, and the acting again is terrific with the regulars doing no wrong. Despite preferring Logan and Green when it comes to Briscoe's partners, it was sad saying goodbye to Curtis but at least it was not a rushed, indifferent or last minute exit.
In conclusion, outstanding second part and what a way to end Season 9. 10/10.