Season 9 was very up and down quality-wise. Of all the ten seasons of 'Law and Order: Criminal Intent', it was probably the most inconsistent and we are talking about a show that did become hit and miss halfway through its run pretty much. There were a few great episodes certainly. There were also a few misfires. And the rest fell somewhere in between. "True Legacy" was another one of those episodes where there was no doubt it would be at least good.
How could it not be with a story idea as good as that? Luckily, "True Legacy" turned out to be an excellent episode and definitely in the top 5 best episodes of Season 9. The season excelled most with its dark character studies, "True Legacy" is one of those episodes that fits into that type and is one of the best. Great concept with every bit as great execution, and proof that despite being hit and miss for a while 'Criminal Intent' was still capable of greatness.
"True Legacy" isn't perfect, as Nichols and Stevens' chemistry does lack spark here and it is a case of the supporting cast making a bigger splash than the regulars. Not because the regulars aren't good, Jeff Goldblum actually does a very nice job, but because the supporting cast are just great.
Especially alluring yet subtly unsettling Laura Harring, giving the joint best guest turn of Season 9 along with Dallas Roberts in "Abel and Willing". Her character is absolutely fascinating, thanks to the intricate way she's written and how unnerved Harring makes one feel without overacting. The case is also one of Season 9's darkest and creepiest and definitely also one of the darkest Nichols-led episodes, just the subject matter alone is creepy and it also intrigues without being too complicated or over-complicated.
Moreover, "True Legacy" is a visually slick episode, typical for 'Criminal Intent' and the 'Law and Order' franchise, and one 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 past the early stages with the theme tune still memorable and the direction is accommodating yet tight enough. The script is thoughtful and intriguing, though could have been tighter at times.
Concluding, excellent. 9/10.