Season 4 was another very solid season for 'Law and Order', with almost all the episodes ranging from decent to outstanding. The only major disappointment for me actually being "Doubles" and there were a few episodes with rather ordinary cases at times more than compensated by fine performances and dialogue. At the same time, Season 4 also had 'Law and Order' (show and franchise) jewels like "Profile", "American Dream" and "Sanctuary".
The season's final episode "Old Friends" is another one of the jewels. It is a nigh-on perfect end to the season, working very well as a season finale (and feeling like one) and as an episode in its own right. And a more than worthy send off to Stone, who has always been very much missed and really should have lasted much longer on the show (as he was one of the main appeals of Seasons 1-4), but Jack McCoy was a mighty fine replacement once he settled. Not to mention one of the season's finest guest turns.
"Old Friends" production values as ever are slick and with the right amount of muted grit, the photography doesn't try to do anything too fancy or gimmicky while not being claustrophobic and keeping things simple. The music doesn't overbear and the direction is accomodating yet tight enough.
Furthermore, the writing is truly thought provoking and always flows naturally. No extraneous fat here, and there are some great exchanges (especially between Stone and Schiff, with their very lump to the throat-worthy final scene being particularly beautifully written and played) and lines, the best coming from Stone. Yes the episode really did make the most of the character's final appearance, which didn't feel thrown in or anything, while treating him with respect. The story is riveting throughout, with enough tension and it never feels too simple or convoluted. Personally found Stone's catalyst for departure very plausible even if it possibly would have resonated more in "Sanctuary", which was more personal.
Can't fault the performances with all the characters and interaction beautifully written. Michael Moriarty does conflict and authority so well and has great chemistry with Steven Hill. Allison Janney gives one of the season's standout guest turns in the best of ways, powerful stuff here. Chilling Victor Slezak is just as good though his character isn't as rich.
Summing up, wonderful final episode to a solid fourth season. 10/10