Was really surprised at how good Season 19 was, and was not expecting to like it as much due to not getting on board with the chemistry between Lupo and Bernard at the end of the previous season. Which fortunately did become a lot better. While a few episodes underwhelmed (though still watchable), particularly "Crimebusters" (with "Lost Boys" close behind), there were also some wonderful episodes such as "Skate or Die", "Zero" and "Chattel".
"The Drowned and the Saved" is a great, excellent even, ending to Season 19 and one of its best. Not quite as brilliant as "Skate or Die", which had more tension and a more memorable guest star, but very, very nearly in the same class. Thanks to the fascinating conflict that sees more of a too under-utilised fan favourite and also the guest stars playing the couple the episode centres around. As an episode in its own right, "The Drowned and the Saved" is every but as excellent.
Maybe the conclusion could have slowed down a little.
Otherwise, there is nothing else to be mildly critical of. It looks professional and the camerawork is neither overblown or static. The music has a haunting and not too melodramatic presence. The direction keeps things tight while allowing time to breathe. The script is intelligent, layered, lean and provokes a lot of thought. The story is compelling and is intricate without being convoluted, the moral dilemmas of the case are intensely and thoughtfully handled and it is amazing seeing how relevant the episode is still.
Conflict has a lot of tension, very fascinating in the subject it covers and the kind where a result, and the right kind, is rooted for, while the approach to the subject is uncompromising and suspenseful while not being preachy. It was fantastic to see more of McCoy, his underuse in some of the previous Season 18-19 episodes was criminal but here not only does he play a quite active role he also has a subplot that reminds one fondly of the kinds of subplots he had in the early seasons. The content could have been over complicated, but just about wasn't.
Acting all round is excellent, with Sam Waterston coming off best with the meatiest material of the regulars, while Tom Everett Scott and Alison Elliott indeed play cold blooded characters and really unsettle.
Summing up, excellent way to end a surprisingly well done season. 9/10.