Even reading the plot synopsis is enough to make anybody well up, especially if the subject is quite a personal one. It was definitely a subject that hit home with me. Another big interest point in seeing "Vulnerable" was Jane Powell, best known for her lead and supporting performances in musicals ('Seven Brides for Seven Brothers' being one of the more famous ones) when she was much younger. Seeing her in a dramatic role like this sees a different side to her that one doesn't realise she had in her.
She showed that she certainly had it in her alright. While not quite a Season 4 high-point or one of the best episodes of 'Law and Order: Special Victims Unit', "Vulnerable" struck me as a great episode and it did hit me hard. Which was appropriate for the subject. Not quite as good as the outstanding premiere "Chameleon", as far as the previous Season 4 episodes go, but much better than the previous episode "Deception" (not a bad episode at all but rather uneven).
"Vulnerable" may not have the suspense that other episodes of 'Special Victims Unit' have.
It does though deliver on the emotion. 'Special Victims Unit' more often than not is an uncompromising watch, but of the episodes recently re-watched "Vulnerable" was one of the more emotionally tough ones to watch (not meant in a bad way). The story really did bring tears to my eyes and is enough to make one wary of nursing homes for a while. The script is thought-probing and sincere without rambling, Stabler's "man I don't want to grow old" was exactly what was in my mind when watching the episode for the first time and still resonates on re-watch.
Powell is truly excellent here. This is a far cry from the perky and adorable roles she specialised in in her earlier career, and instead sees a truly vulnerable side where even the appearance and hearing how Bess is treated makes one shocked, sad and angered. She is incredibly moving here. Mary Kay Place unsettles as Hope. All the regulars are on form too, with Christopher Meloni and Mariska Hargitay having great chemistry together. Also love the chemistry between dry-humoured Munch and more intense Fin.
Furthermore the production values are stylish and slick with a brighter and more refined look, while maintaining the show's grit. The music doesn't overbear and is not overused. The direction keeps things moving well while letting the drama breathe.
Summarising, great but not an easy watch. Have tissues at the ready. 9/10
She showed that she certainly had it in her alright. While not quite a Season 4 high-point or one of the best episodes of 'Law and Order: Special Victims Unit', "Vulnerable" struck me as a great episode and it did hit me hard. Which was appropriate for the subject. Not quite as good as the outstanding premiere "Chameleon", as far as the previous Season 4 episodes go, but much better than the previous episode "Deception" (not a bad episode at all but rather uneven).
"Vulnerable" may not have the suspense that other episodes of 'Special Victims Unit' have.
It does though deliver on the emotion. 'Special Victims Unit' more often than not is an uncompromising watch, but of the episodes recently re-watched "Vulnerable" was one of the more emotionally tough ones to watch (not meant in a bad way). The story really did bring tears to my eyes and is enough to make one wary of nursing homes for a while. The script is thought-probing and sincere without rambling, Stabler's "man I don't want to grow old" was exactly what was in my mind when watching the episode for the first time and still resonates on re-watch.
Powell is truly excellent here. This is a far cry from the perky and adorable roles she specialised in in her earlier career, and instead sees a truly vulnerable side where even the appearance and hearing how Bess is treated makes one shocked, sad and angered. She is incredibly moving here. Mary Kay Place unsettles as Hope. All the regulars are on form too, with Christopher Meloni and Mariska Hargitay having great chemistry together. Also love the chemistry between dry-humoured Munch and more intense Fin.
Furthermore the production values are stylish and slick with a brighter and more refined look, while maintaining the show's grit. The music doesn't overbear and is not overused. The direction keeps things moving well while letting the drama breathe.
Summarising, great but not an easy watch. Have tissues at the ready. 9/10
