One off the creepier episodes of L&O.
Law and Order has certain episodes that stay with you, often times because of the dark storylines, intelligent writing, and powerful performances.
This episode is no different, with the debate as to whether McCoy goes too far and especially Burt Young's performance, who plays creepy in a very effective understated way. But I also found two unique aspects to it that stuck in my head for a good while afterward: the music and one special effects shot.
The L&O score is generally very similar episode to episode, but here, a few scenes that were dark were accompanied by a new musical accompaniment: a simple one to two note ping. It reminded me a lot of episodes of Unsolved Mysteries who often did the same thing. It was eerily effective, in small part because it was unexpected.
The other element was a special effects shot used when a crime tech showed the detectives an imprint in the lab. The show superimposed an image (no spoilers) which is something I have VERY rarely seen done in the show, if at all. The above mentioned music accompanied this scene, making for a double dose of new and disturbing.
I can't help but keep thinking of those single few notes, that image, as well as Burt Young, a good few hours after I've watched the episode. It compelled me to write this review as it's not often a procedural with as many seasons as Law and Order can surprise you.