Have said more than once before about having been always intrigued by good concepts and how difficult topics would be covered. "The Unblinking Eye" did sound very interesting on paper, with real potential to be creepy but also there was the worry of it being confused. Had seen the episode quite some time ago, remember liking but not loving it, but decided to re-watch it recently, especially after being so impressed by Pablo Schreiber as William Lewis in 'Law and Order: Special Victims Unit'.
"The Unblinking Eye" is not one of Season 4's or of 'Criminal Intent's' best episodes, but it is very interesting (especially for the relationship that plays a major part here, which is one of the main reasons to see the episode) and very well done. Its many good things being great, even if the extra something (i.e. more tension and more emotion) present in other Season 4 episodes is not quite there here. If asked whether "The Unblinking Eye" is recommended, my answer would be a yes definitely.
Namely to see the very twisted relationship between Michael and Ed, which is tense and well written. Of the two performances, Jeff Hephner as Michael comes off better as the more interesting character and with a more menacing presence. Schreiber is good and the intensity is there, though his character is not as strong and his material not as meaty. There are though many other reasons to see it.
All the regulars are very good, Vincent D'Onofrio and Kathryn Erbe never disappointed and likewise with their chemistry. Will say though that when it came to little character moments Goren was a touch subdued in comparison to most other episodes of 'Criminal Intent', though he is very satisfying at the end. The production values are slick and not busy or too static while also not being overly safe as well. The music is haunting without being intrusive.
Writing is thought-provoking and tight enough. The story is a bit bizarre in places (not the first time with 'Criminal Intent' and not one of the worst cases) and the frame up was a bit too neat, but is very compelling on the whole and isn't too simple or too complicated.
Overall, very well done. 8/10
"The Unblinking Eye" is not one of Season 4's or of 'Criminal Intent's' best episodes, but it is very interesting (especially for the relationship that plays a major part here, which is one of the main reasons to see the episode) and very well done. Its many good things being great, even if the extra something (i.e. more tension and more emotion) present in other Season 4 episodes is not quite there here. If asked whether "The Unblinking Eye" is recommended, my answer would be a yes definitely.
Namely to see the very twisted relationship between Michael and Ed, which is tense and well written. Of the two performances, Jeff Hephner as Michael comes off better as the more interesting character and with a more menacing presence. Schreiber is good and the intensity is there, though his character is not as strong and his material not as meaty. There are though many other reasons to see it.
All the regulars are very good, Vincent D'Onofrio and Kathryn Erbe never disappointed and likewise with their chemistry. Will say though that when it came to little character moments Goren was a touch subdued in comparison to most other episodes of 'Criminal Intent', though he is very satisfying at the end. The production values are slick and not busy or too static while also not being overly safe as well. The music is haunting without being intrusive.
Writing is thought-provoking and tight enough. The story is a bit bizarre in places (not the first time with 'Criminal Intent' and not one of the worst cases) and the frame up was a bit too neat, but is very compelling on the whole and isn't too simple or too complicated.
Overall, very well done. 8/10