The subject matter immediately is enough to grab the attention. It is a very sensitive and difficult topic to discuss, and if anybody has doubts about whether the execution would be tactful enough without being preachy, one-sided and too heavy that is understandable (those are common traps with this kind of topic and similar). Anybody though that has always admired how 'Law and Order' approached tough subjects and how it did so will be intrigued.
In my view, Season 14 didn't have a bad episode and one of the best (along with "Bodies" and "Identity") is "Darwinian". Which is also a very strong contender for the most poignant episode of the season, with one of the most interesting and complex defendants and while the subject is not a new one (Season 4's "Volunteers" explores homelessness too) "Darwinian" explores it very insightfully and uncompromisingly, while also not being preachy or judgemental.
"Darwinian" is a slickly made episode, the editing especially having come on quite a bit from when the show first started (never was it a problem but it got more fluid with each episode up to this stage). The music is sparingly used and never seemed melodramatic, the theme tune easy to remember as usual. The direction is sympathetic enough without being too low key.
Furthermore, the script is an intelligent and sincere one that explores the subject tactfully while not holding back. There is a lot of talk, as usual, but it didn't feel like overload, what it says about homelessness is insightful and resonates for somebody who lived in a city for nearly a decade where it was very bad. There is no vilification or sugar coating and it was interesting seeing society's attitude towards it.
The story is riveting and touching, with nothing being too simple or obvious, the complex character writing of the defendant also helps. The first half always intrigues and doesn't feel stale or rehashed. It is the second half though, where the material has more complexity and meat, that makes "Darwinian" even better and quite special. The tension that comes with McCoy having to fight for a conviction despite having all the evidence crackles. The acting is excellent from the regulars (including Elisabeth Rohm), but this is a case of the supporting cast being even better. Christopher Donaghue and Kate Burton give very hard hitting portrayals, Donaghue both chills and moves and Burton manages to not overact her character's impassioned mind.
Overall, outstanding. 10/10.