With the possibility that this, the 20th season of the long-running drama, may be its last, producer Dick Wolf seems determined to go out with a bag, drawing more controversy with the story lines and allowing the veteran cast members a chance to shine.
"Fed", which makes commentary on the "right" and the "left", gives S. Epatha Merkerson as Lt. Anita Van Buren the lion's share of the installment, giving her significant scenes with Sam Waterson (D.A. Jack McCoy) and Benjamin Bratt, making his return as Detective Rey Curtis. Curtis is back to bury his now-deceased wife and he and Van Buren share a poignant reunion, making a touching reference to Lennie Briscoe, played by the late, brilliant Jerry Orbach. Merkerson also has a tear-jerking scene at the show's end as Van Buren breaks down in the arms of her husband (Ernie Hudson), thinking about her fight with cancer.
The story itself is engaging but the episode is more a showcase for the Golden Globe and Emmy-winning actress.
"Fed", which makes commentary on the "right" and the "left", gives S. Epatha Merkerson as Lt. Anita Van Buren the lion's share of the installment, giving her significant scenes with Sam Waterson (D.A. Jack McCoy) and Benjamin Bratt, making his return as Detective Rey Curtis. Curtis is back to bury his now-deceased wife and he and Van Buren share a poignant reunion, making a touching reference to Lennie Briscoe, played by the late, brilliant Jerry Orbach. Merkerson also has a tear-jerking scene at the show's end as Van Buren breaks down in the arms of her husband (Ernie Hudson), thinking about her fight with cancer.
The story itself is engaging but the episode is more a showcase for the Golden Globe and Emmy-winning actress.