"Loyalty: Part 1" is the first part of the only season opener of 'Law and Order: Criminal Intent' to be in two parts. It is also the second of only two two parters on the show, the other being Season 5's "In the Wee Small Hours" (one of the high points of that season). The premise for the episode sounds great on paper and both parts of "Loyalty" struck me as very powerful on first watch, especially Part 1. Nichols being involved in the episode initially evokes feelings of intrigue and puzzlement, as to whether he would gel.
High expectations were lived up to and more, and both parts of "Loyalty" proved to be even more powerful overtime than on first watch. It is a brilliant start to Season 9 (another short season) that promises a lot of great things for the rest of the season and one of 'Criminal Intent's' best season openers. Which the show actually had a good run with in quality. While it may not be quite prime-'Criminal Intent' (the best of Seasons 1-4) it is evidence that the less consistent later seasons didn't see the show in complete decline.
It's hard to know where to begin with praising "Loyalty: Part 1". The production values are still slick and suitably gritty (without being too heavy in it). The music is not too melodramatic and is not used too much, even not being too manipulative in revelations. The direction lets the drama breathe while making sure that the tension and emotion never slipped.
There are great performances across the board, especially Vincent D'Onofrio. Particularly in the reactions to the big tragedy, which is quite harrowing. Goren and Eames are as ever on top form and work together like a fine wine and cheese. Was intrigued but also worried as to whether Nichols would gel or whether he would jar, with such a different demeanour. He actually gels very well and it makes sense for him to be there as the big tragedy would affect him too, his skills are also put to good use and that his quirkiness has been toned down is appreciated.
Admittedly it took a while for me to get used to Ross but when he was written well he grew on me. His exit is handled very powerfully, especially the reactions to it. The story engrosses from the get go and sets up what is to come next and the season more than promisingly. The script is tight and thoughtful, with little rambling.
Overall, brilliant. 10/10.
