Absolutely love Goren and Eames' pairing, and Goren especially is the most fascinating of all the 'Law and Order: Criminal Intent' leads. Which was very apparently in Season 6. Do prefer them over the pairing that they alternated with throughout Season 6 Logan and Wheeler (still like that pairing though actually), and prefer and am more used to them as characters. Their episodes on the whole in Season 6 are better than the Logan and Wheeler ones and they had the season high points.
That is proven for me in one of Season 6's best episodes "Silencer". It is also one of its bravest, with a bold topic that is extremely difficult to portray and write about with it being so complex psychologically, mentally, physically, ethically and philosophically. And also one that is not easy to explore in a layered and intricate way in a relatively short time frame. "Silencer" though does wonderfully in this aspect, and deserves credit for even daring to approach it and in the sensitive and remarkably layered way that it did.
"Silencer" is wonderful in every way. The production values are slick and have a subtle grit, with an intimacy to the photography without being too claustrophobic. The music isn't used too much and doesn't get too melodramatic. The direction has enough taut urgency when needed while giving the case breathing space. Cannot fault the regulars, Vincent D'Onofrio never put a foot wrong throughout his entire time on 'Criminal Intent' (even when Goren was more subdued to usual) and is excellent here. He and Kathryn Erbe, sassy and understated as ever, have typically great chemistry together.
Regarding the supporting cast, they are every bit as excellent and are perhaps even better as some of the most complex characters of Season 6 and perhaps even of the whole of 'Criminal Intent'. "Silencer" does incredibly well at showing their perspectives with no judgement. Alexandria Wailies in particular gives a performance that is both moving and courageous. "Silencer" contains some of 'Criminal Intent's' most multi-dimensional writing, providing real insight into the familial and cultural relationships between deaf and hearing people and addressing a number of questions and issue from an ethical and philosophical standpoint. All handled very sensitively.
Furthermore, the story is twisty, intelligent and full of emotional impact. Also with clever and never gimmicky use of sound. Its exploration of one of the season's and show's most complex and boldest topics is a lot deeper than a lot of 'Criminal Intent' episodes.
Brilliant episode overall. 10/10