Law & Order Season 24, Episode 20 Review: The Show Forgets 1 Major Thing

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Season 24, Episode 20 of Law & Order, titled “Sins of the Father,” is one of the season’s most intriguing episodes. However, it strays somewhat from what has kept the NBC drama relevant for 24 seasons – its unique identity. In essence, this episode shares more similarities with other shows than the typical Law & Order style.

The narrative ‘Crimes of Yesteryears’ commences with the homicide of Sunny Zhen, a Chinese immigrant whose father had defrauded other immigrants of around $40,000 before returning to his native land. When it is disclosed that Sunny encountered individuals connected to relentless drug dealer Antonio Ruiz, it becomes clear where the plot is headed. However, despite its predictability, it proves to be an engaging journey… provided viewers can adapt to the fact that this installment deviates significantly from what one might anticipate from this series.

Law & Order Season 24, Episode 20 Avoids the Season’s Biggest Problem

The Episode Is Surprisingly Light on Social Commentary

One of the standout aspects of Law & Order Season 24, Episode 20 is that it largely refrains from imposing a particular viewpoint on viewers. Initially, there’s some discussion about being an immigrant in America, such as when Sunny’s former boss questions the dismissal of Sunny from Hudson University for allegations of selling secrets, stating that “it’s 2025” and the university didn’t want to risk its funding by supporting an immigrant. However, these instances are kept minimal and seamlessly integrated into the narrative, rather than feeling like they were included solely to make a statement.

Instead of a specific message, “Sins of the Father” explores the central theme of fathers and sons by weaving it into its narrative. The deceased character shares a connection with someone who embezzled a substantial sum from fellow immigrants. One of the prime suspects in his murder, and the figure whose life becomes the focus of the episode, is linked to an infamous drug dealer experimenting with powerful fentanyl on individuals. As the story unfolds, the similarities between these two characters become increasingly apparent. While the storytelling may not be the most nuanced, a clear and relatable theme proves more impactful than a complex or controversial perspective that viewers might struggle to connect with or find unappealing.

What Law & Order Borrows From This Overlooked Taylor Sheridan Show

Season 24, Episode 20 Is More Like a Sheridan Drama Than a Dick Wolf Series

In the story “Sins of the Father,” the protagonist is Ernesto Ruiz, a dedicated middle school teacher whose father, Antonio Ruiz, is portrayed as the antagonist. Unlike most people, Ernesto appears to work at the school out of genuine passion rather than necessity (according to the principal, she thinks he could easily live without this job). However, Ernesto’s one blunder, a seemingly minor indiscretion, occurs when he allows others to borrow his car. Particularly, he gives a ride to his cousin Omar Nunez, unaware that Omar was planning to commit murder instead of merely threatening a swindler who had wronged Omar’s girlfriend. This situation presents the classic moral dilemma found in “Law & Order” series: District Attorney Nicholas Baxter is so determined to bring down Antonio that he threatens Ernesto with a dubious felony murder charge if he doesn’t cooperate. The story becomes increasingly complex both in terms of the plot twists and the emotional engagement for viewers as it unfolds.

In simpler terms, the plot in this show seems similar to a previous one, but without the military aspect. The story revolved around an operative whose father was a villain, and they were used to reach him. This is reminiscent of Ernesto’s situation, except he maintains his father’s innocence. The Taylor Sheridan show made this storyline more impactful because it fully committed to Cruz’s mission to bring down her father, whereas Law & Order adds complications to make the plot more intriguing. However, if Ernesto were aware of his father’s wicked deeds and agreed to cooperate without pressure, the plot would be more believable and reinforce his goodness. But this approach would mean sacrificing Episode 20’s dramatic moment where Ernesto discovers evidence against his father.

In other words, switching to an unconventional narrative gives room for some unexpected turns in the plot, making it more dynamic than a standard Law & Order episode. Usually, audiences can predict who the culprit is and when the arrest will be made. However, “Sins of the Father” maintains building suspense by adding layers – even though the main surprise, the discovery of 13 bodies, was hinted in the episode trailer.

Law & Order Forgets This One Major Part of the Show’s Formula

Half of the Story Doesn’t Even Happen in Season 24, Episode 20

Title “Sins of the Father”: A Departure from Law & Order’s Typical Structure

In the episode “Sins of the Father,” the courtroom scenes that are usually present in Law & Order have been omitted, offering a fresh take on the series. Although an arrest is made in this case involving 13 murders attributed to Antonio Ruiz, the audience never gets to witness a trial or verdict, leaving us to wonder about his ultimate fate. Some viewers may appreciate the show’s break from its traditional formula. However, the absence of the familiar courtroom scenes leaves some feeling that this episode strays too far from the show they have grown accustomed to. The reason for the show’s signature structure is that it provides a unique balance, and without it, this episode, while thrilling, does not quite capture the essence of Law & Order that fans have come to expect.

The episode doesn’t abandon the characters from “Order,” even though they aren’t performing their usual roles. Nolan Price, Samantha Maroun, and Nicholas Baxter all get significant screentime. Hugh Dancy delivers an exceptional reaction when Ernesto says the uncomfortable line, “Only those who deserve it die in that life.” It’s a disturbing idea (and a cringeworthy line), and Price subtly shows his disapproval by rolling his eyes one of the highlights. Unfortunately, Baxter’s actions may make viewers dislike him for going to extreme lengths to get what he wants. Maroun, on the other hand, continues to offer a compassionate perspective for the opposing side, and we learn more about her family in this episode.

This rephrased version attempts to maintain the original’s tone and content while making it easier to read:

The disappointing aspect is that the lawyers can only discuss their legal and ethical conflicts so much, and an open-ended episode like this one can only be effective to a certain extent. It’s acceptable to keep Ernesto’s fate uncertain (viewers won’t be shocked if his story takes a negative turn), but what makes Law & Order stand out is the balance between law and order, and “Sins of the Father” leans more towards a cop show with occasional lawyer input.

To put it another way, Law & Order Season 20, Episode 24 stands out because it manages to avoid some of the issues the season has faced so far; the format change is an added bonus. However, it doesn’t work perfectly for everyone, and it may not appeal to all viewers. Still, the creative team deserves credit for their efforts.

Law & Order airs Thursdays at 8:00 p.m. on .

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2025-05-02 18:06