Graphic Designer
A year after the unforeseen departure of the beloved Lumen, perhaps the only character who truly understood Dexter’s “dark passenger,” Showtime’s raved serial killer show Dexter returns for its sixth season.
As with most of the seasons, this one begins fresh and introduces a new cast of villains that Dexter hopes to ultimately have sprawled out on his kill table. A Miami Metro blood spatter analyst by day and moonlighting vigilante serial killer by night, Dexter Morgan remains one of TV’s most oddly compelling characters.
Season six takes a new approach by having the role of religion, specifically Christianity, serve as the season’s overarching theme. The main antagonists are two radical Christians (portrayed by Edward James Olmos and Colin Hanks), who are referred to as “The Doomsday Killers,” they utilize Biblical texts, specifically the Book of Revelation, as the base all their killings. They believe that the Apocalypse is coming and leave signs of this belief at the crime scenes of their victims.
As Dexter becomes interested in these murders, he begins to piece parts together in hopes of ultimately sinking his knife into these serial killers to end their killing spree. He also begins to contemplate his own faith, particularly through the inspiration of Brother Sam, a new character played by Mos Def, who is able to connect with Dexter on an inconceivable level.
Thus far, the season has been up to par with previous ones. Without spoiling anything, there have been several new wrinkles in the Miami Police department including promotions, new partnerships, new hires and even some interns. Additionally, Dexter’s son, Harrison, is starting to grow older. Although viewers croon at his innocence and adorableness, they also mull over whether or not he will grow up with his father’s “dark passenger.”
On a lighter note, there is a significant increase in the amount of humor used compared to prior seasons. Dexter has evolved into more of a dark “dramedy” (components of both drama and comedy). In particular, Quinn (Desmond Harrington) and Batista (David Zayas) provide doses of comic relief that are juxtaposed by the grim Doomsday murders.
Michael C. Hall continues to portray the character of Dexter fabulously and teeters with our emotions as we feel obligated to empathize but also criticize his actions. As the end of Dexter’s airtime forbiddingly looms in the back of our minds, the quintessential question remains potent: what will ultimately happen to Dexter? Will he ever be caught and revealed for who he truly is? It is a thought that is beginning to become more and more prominent as the seasons continue to roll out.
After being nominated countless times for Primetime Emmy and Golden Globe awards, season six looks to be in the forefront once again. It remains one of the most lucrative and alluring shows on TV right now and continues to offer viewers a compelling, dark, odd, amusing and thought-provoking narrative.
Matt Vaghi may be reached at mvaghi@springfieldcollege.edu