One knows from the outset from the subject matter alone, well before reading the plot synopsis, that "Pop" would be a difficult episode to watch. The subject matter is such a disturbing one and anything that deals with the dangers of something so dangerous should be raised awareness of as much as possible. Especially when it is still so relevant. Especially anybody who has been a sufferer of domestic violence or seen it, am someone who knew someone that was a sufferer.
"Pop" is not rated very highly here, but to me it's a very good episode even if not perfect. Is it one of the best episodes of the frustratingly inconsistent Season 12? No. Is it one of the worst? Again no. It does though is closer to being in the better end. It handles a difficult issue very well on the whole, and while any episode that has Stabler as a primary focus (especially during this period where his character writing became significantly less appealing) may have one a little worried he struck me as fine here.
Am going to list the many good things first that outweigh the negatives. Christopher Meloni brings his usual steely intensity expertly, was really starting to like Stabler a lot less but that was the character writing's fault rather than Meloni (who was always good and more as well). The supporting turns are solid too, with Adam Senn making a detestable character very unnerving. The case is very sad and harrowing, that will hit home with any domestic violence/abuse sufferer/survivor and/or witness. It also opened my eyes up to how truly bad it can be.
The script is lean and thought provoking, dealing with a difficult issue in a pull no punches yet tactful way. It is as ever shot with the right amount of intimacy without feeling too up close, even with a reliance of close up camerawork. That the editing has become increasingly tighter over-time is great too. The music isn't over-scored, manipulative or used too much. There is intimacy and tautness in the direction.
Having said all this, "Pop" isn't perfect. It does feel too incomplete even for an open to interpretation ending in a case that would have resonated more if there was a resolution. Hardwicke has really gone down in my estimations since her first appearance, she is extremely cold here and too much of a witch.
Didn't buy too how easily gullible Tucker was, especially considering his job.
Wrapping up, very good if not great. 8/10.