Ep 22. The Blue Wall

The Blue Wall is the 22nd episode of the first season of the famous American police procedural drama series Law & Order. This episode was aired on May 9, 1991, and was directed by Edwin Sherin. The episode portrays the complexity and physical dangers experienced by police officers while trying to do their job effectively, and draws attention to the different codes used to maintain loyalty within law enforcement groups.

In this episode of Law & Order, the focus is on the death of a young African-American man named Victor Moretto, who was shot and killed while in police custody. The incident occurred after Victor was arrested on a charge of drug possession by Detectives Michael Harkavy (Scotty Bloch) and Phil Cerreta (Paul Sorvino). While the detectives claimed that Victor tried to escape, several eyewitnesses claim that he was brutally beaten and then thrown out of a moving police car. Detectives Max Greevey (George Dzundza) and Detective Mike Logan (Chris Noth) were assigned to the case. As they investigate the incident, they come across the "blue wall" – the secretive code of silence that law enforcement officers have to maintain with each other.

During the investigation, the detectives question the officers involved in the case, as well as other people who had information about the events that led to Victor Moretto's death. The detectives realize that the incident had racial overtones, and that it has sparked a controversy in the community. They also learn that this is not an isolated case, and that there have been similar incidents in the past where people have been mistreated or killed while in police custody. However, all of the officers claim that Victor Moretto's death was an accident, and that they did what they had to do to protect themselves.

Despite facing obstacles at every turn, including a hostile police force that has circled the wagons to protect their own, the detectives methodically gather evidence that proves that Victor Moretto's death was indeed a murder, and not an accident as claimed by the cops. They are able to identify the officers involved in the incident, and bring them to justice. In the end, the episode concludes with a powerful message, highlighting the importance of accountability and transparency in law enforcement.

The Blue Wall episode of Law & Order is a gripping representation of the difficulties faced by police officers in trying to maintain the law. It is also a compelling commentary on the importance of speaking out against those who misuse their authority, regardless of the cost. The episode's format, a seamless blend of courtroom drama and police procedural, keeps the viewers riveted to their seats till the very end. By highlighting the moral complexities and ethical dilemmas faced by police officers, the show provides a deep insight into the workings of the justice system.

Overall, the episode The Blue Wall showcases the skillful writing, deft direction, and stellar performances that made Law & Order a cultural phenomenon. It is a reminder that good storytelling can be both entertaining and thought-provoking, and that television can be a powerful medium for social commentary. For many viewers and critics alike, The Blue Wall remains one of the standout episodes of the show's first season, and an enduring testament to the lasting impact of this iconic series.