The story for "Love on Ice" did sound interesting and did have potential to work. It's not innovative, but one shouldn't always expect uniqueness from 'Law and Order: Criminal Intent' or from the 'Law and Order' franchise in general. Did like the idea though, not so much the slightly cheesy title, and the character of Nichols has really grown on me, didn't like him at first (through no fault of Jeff Goldblum though just to say) but once his episodes got better he did too.
"Love on Ice" is not only a strong contender for the best Nichols and Stevens episode but also one of Nichols' overall best. Not to mention easily the best 'Criminal Intent' outing since the "Loyalty" two parter and easily one of Season 9's best. There were not many great Season 9 (which was very uneven) episodes, but "Love on Ice" is one of them definitely.
It is a touch over-complicated in spots, especially when things become more complex and more revealed in a shorter time frame.
Otherwise, there are no further issues. It is an episode that draws one right in and finishes spectacularly with an ending that was not foreseeable at all. The only ending of the season to leave me floored actually. The case is suitably intricate, with plenty of surprising turns that are also plausible and tension. Nothing feels convoluted or melodramatic.
Script is taut and smart, with no signs of rambling, confusion or overdone emotion. Nichols is still fun without being too quirky while not losing any spark. Stevens seems more settled now and the chemistry is starting to gel.
Jeff Goldblum and Saffron Burrows carry "Love on Ice" very nicely and the supporting cast are fine. It is shot with the right amount of intimacy without being claustrophobic and that the editing has become increasingly tighter over-time has been great too. Nice use of locations too. The music doesn't get over-scored or overwrought, even in the more dramatic revelation moments. The direction doesn't try to do too much and is understated but never flat or unsure.
In conclusion, terrific. 9/10.
