Quick Netflix Review: Dexter
Posted By Russ Emerson on April 12, 2010 at 1:48 pm
Dexter: Season 1
Starring Michael C. Hall, Julie Benz, Jennifer Carpenter, Erik King
Quick review: How and why did it take so long for there to be an entry in the vigilante serial killer genre? And… is it wrong to occasionally root for the serial killer?
4½ stars
It’s a Showtime production, so caveats about language and adult content are definitely applicable.
You might also be prepared for gruesomeness.
That said, this is a remarkable series. The viewer sees things from the viewpoint of sociopath Dexter Morgan who, having been adopted and raised by a cop, has been taught to cover his tracks exceptionally well. So well, in fact, that he blends invisibly into society, working as a police forensics expert, and going through the motions of dating a woman — and doing surprisingly well at the latter, despite his utter lack of emotion or empathy.
The one slightly redeeming aspect to his behaviour is that he only kills those who, being guilty of the worst crimes, have escaped judicial punishment.
Dexter’s inner monologue is unexpectedly fascinating, and occasionally laugh-out-loud funny, as he describes the lengths he goes to put on the appearance of being normal. By the end of the first episode, I actually felt pity for the character.
Michael C. Hall is outstanding in the lead, and is backed by a terrific ensemble cast. James Remar’s scenes as Dexter’s late father, shown in flashbacks, are particularly noteworthy, and show much of how Dexter came to be who he is.
All in all, a well-done series, worth watching.
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