'Law and Order', as well as 'Special Victims Unit' and 'Criminal Intent', excelled frequently in tackling heavy and sensitive themes and subjects and the moral dilemmas that come with them. "Extended Family" tackles one of the heaviest and most sensitive subjects to cover anywhere, and although it did become quite familiar territory for the franchise (especially on 'Special Victims Unit') it is always worth addressing and needs to be, it's an important issue and is sadly still relevant.
"Extended Family" does overall do a very, very good job with it. It is not one of the best episodes of the early years of 'Law and Order' or of the show in general. It is not even one of the best episodes of Season 3, which generally was as good as the previous two seasons though a little up and down quality-wise while always above average. Its emotional power though cannot be denied and it deserves much credit to tackle a topic so heavy, relevant and brave in the first place, regardless of execution.
There are so many good things in "Extended Family". It doesn't look drab or gaudy, and the editing is getting more fluid and slicker all the time. The music avoids getting too melodramatic in the more dramatic moments while not being too low key, it has always been a good move that it is used relatively sparingly. The direction especially shines in the character interaction in the second half. The performances can't be faulted. Not just from a typically juicy Michael Moriarty and authoritative Jerry Orbach.
But also a compelling tortured turn from Barry Primus and an affecting one from Madeleine Zima. Joyce Van Patten is also a strong presence. Really admired the sensitive handling of this important and difficult case and subject that is as said already still relevant. The moral dilemmas as ever with 'Law and Order' are insightful and tactfully done. The episode is tense and also very emotional, twisty enough without over-stuffing or ever being incoherent or silly. The supporting characters are interesting, especially Gary Silver, and the character interaction in the legal scenes sizzles. The scene between Samantha and Olivet is lovely and brought years to my eyes. The script is beautifully balanced, there is a lot of talk but taut enough to avoid it from waffling.
A few parts though could have gone into more depth, Silver's guilt or innocence could have been made clearer.
While not unrealistic and one that makes one feel a wide range of emotions, the ending could have done with more of the punch of what came before and felt too hastily wrapped up.
In summary, another strong episode. 8/10