21/33
Christian Slater is older than James Remar when Dexter (2006) first aired, and was followed by Dexter: Resurrection (2025)
Miami, 1991. When his bloodthirsty urges can no longer be ignored, young Dexter Morgan must learn to control his inner darkness as he transforms from student to vengeful serial killer under the tutelage of his father, Harry. Dexter: Original Sin takes a bold gamble by returning to Dexter Morgan’s formative years and offering a new perspective on its dark passenger. While some of the prequels falter under the weight of established canon, Original Sin largely succeeds in enriching Dexter’s mythology while offering a compelling standalone story.
One of the series’ greatest strengths lies in its casting
Though Patrick Gibson was initially a questionable choice, he thrives as a young Dexter, capturing the character’s signature mix of social awkwardness and coolly calculated violence. Molly Brown shines as Deb, bringing a fiery spirit and vulnerability to the younger version of the character that leaves a deep impression. The supporting cast, including Alex Shimizu as Masuka and James Martinez as Batista, also deliver strong performances, effectively capturing the essence of their original counterparts. However, Christian Slater feels a little out of place as Harry, struggling to fully embody the character’s inner conflicts.
Original Sin is not without its flaws
The series deftly blends familiar elements from the original Dexter, including iconic musical cues and visual motifs, while also exploring new territory. A plot involving Harry’s dead son adds more complexity to Dexter’s origin story, even if it drifts into melodramatic territory at times. The central mystery surrounding Dexter’s modern-day predicament in Iron Lake provides a compelling storyline that keeps tension high throughout the season. The pacing can be uneven, with some episodes feeling rushed and others dragging.
The over-reliance on licensed music occasionally clashes with the show’s darker themes
And while the CGI has generally improved since the first episode, some scenes still suffer from significant visual effects issues. Despite these flaws, Dexter: Original Sin is a worthwhile addition to the Dexter universe. It’s a gritty, entertaining exploration of Dexter’s past and offers a new perspective on his transformation into the Bay Harbor Butcher. While it may not completely satisfy all fans, especially those disappointed by “New Blood,” “Original Sin” offers enough compelling moments, strong performances, and intriguing twists to keep viewers hooked until the bloody ending.
Check out our December calendar for more information!
One Hundred Years of Solitude is one of the biggest TV and streaming premieres this month.
