Plot: What’s it about?
When a crime unfolds, the police roll into action, but the process of justice is more than a simple search for clues. The police turn the case over to detectives, who delegate some duties and execute others themselves, in order to make the best use of resources. Once the proper evidence is collected and a suspect is lined up, they move in and make an arrest. But the story doesn’t end there, as the case is then turned over to the prosecuters. These men take the evidence and put together as strong a case as possible, to send the criminal to prison. If either side doesn’t do the job well enough, the criminal can be set free to strike again, so the work has to be almost flawless on both sides. Universal has given us this fourteenth season in a three disc collection, with all three discs dual sided for added space. I am not a fan of dual sided discs, so I was let down, but if it keeps the goods en route, then I can deal with the more fragile discs. Heck, we even have a few extras in this season, though they’re not that substantial. Even so, perhaps Universal will soon turn over a new leaf and issue some loaded releases.
The boom of television shows on DVD continues to snowball and of the studios out there, one of the most active is Universal. But while we’ve seen the first seasons of numerous shows, not much has been done to continue the sagas. One series that has been revisited is Law & Order, but in a more unusual fashion. The first season of Law & Order was released to the delight of fans, but then an immense amount of time passed before the second season was issued, which sparked some concern. Now Universal has skipped ahead and delivered the fourteenth season, but I hope they return to the standard routine soon. I don’t watch Law & Order week to week, so I am not a diehard fan, but I do watch episodes from time to time. I have to say I’ve enjoyed most of the episodes and even the bad ones were passable. This season marks the end of the road for star Jerry Orbach, who bids the series farewell and since he was an original cast member, his departure has a deep impact on the show. As usual, the episodes here are well crafted and most are quite excellent, with only a few lesser installments. I’d assume if you purchased the previous seasons, then you’ll want this one as well. But if you don’t want to absorb the high price, then rent the discs, as the series is well worth a look.
Video: How does it look?
The episodes are presented in full frame, as intended. This is a newer season, so of course, the visuals look pristine and dynamic. The prints have no signs of debris or grain, which ensures the image has good depth and refinement. In other words, softness is never an issue and detail is always high. I found colors to be quite vivid, but also natural in scope, while flesh tones were warm and normal at all times. Just as solid is the contrast, which yields well balanced black levels and no loss of visible detail in the least. So in the end, these episodes look terrific and Universal should be commended on their work here.
Audio: How does it sound?
Not much to talk about here, as aside from a few episodes that have some action, the audio is rather limited here. But for what the show is, the soundtrack can often be quite active, though in a smaller scope. I had no problems hearing the dialogue at any time, as vocals were clean and crisp with no volume issues in the least. The music and sound effects manage to create a decent enough atmosphere, which is welcome in a show such as this. I wasn’t blown away, but I was surprised with how active this track was. This release also includes subtitles in English, Spanish, and French, just in case.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes some talent files, an interview with Park Dietz, and a tour of the set with Jerry Orbach.
