Dexter: Original Sin – Episode 5 Review

by

Warning! This article contains spoilers from Dexter: Original Sin Episode 5.

Summary

  • The episode lacks momentum in the main investigation and shifts focus to Dexter’s reaction to a big mistake.
  • Dexter and Harry’s complicated bond is well-developed, providing insight into the characters and setting up future conflicts.
  • New characters introduced do not have enough screen time to shine, including CSI expert and Miami Metro chief.

In the midpoint of its initial season, Dexter: Original Sin maintains a good pace as Dexter struggles to conceal Mad Dog’s demise, and Harry grapples with the consequences of an error that allows a menacing figure to roam free. Meanwhile, in the 70s plotline, Harry’s secret relationship with Laura Moser deepens, and he encounters some unexpected updates from Doris.

In this episode, skillfully directed by Michael Lehmann and penned by Alexandra Franklin and Marc Muszynski, I found myself captivated on Paramount+ alongside Showtime on January 3. The title, ‘F Is For F**k Up’, certainly sets the tone for an engaging watch.

The fifth installment of the first season offers a thrilling experience, but what struck me as unusual was its departure from the primary Miami Metro investigation narrative, which felt quite abrupt. However, with so much intriguing storyline to tackle, such as the 1970s flashbacks and Dexter’s chilling serial-killing escapades in his teenage years, I must admit that these elements kept me hooked throughout.

An Entertaining Episode But It Lacks Forward Momentum In The Overarching Story

Dexter: Original Sin Episode 5
Starring Patrick Gibson, Christian Slater, Molly Brown, James Martinez, Christina Milian, Alex Shimizu, Reno Wilson, Patrick Dempsey, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Raquel Justice and the voice of Michael C. Hall
Episode Title F Is For F**k Up
Directed By Michael Lehmann

At the midpoint of “Original Sin,” it seems like an appropriate moment to assess whether the series will continue strong in the coming episodes. Generally speaking, the show has potential and could potentially last as long as the original series. However, episode ‘F Is For F**k Up’ hints at some narrative tension, particularly concerning the major investigation of the season.

The original “Dexter” and “New Blood” both maintained a unique format that skillfully combined Dexter’s side murders with a significant police investigation into a main antagonist. Whether it was the Ice Truck Killer or Arthur ‘Trinity’ Mitchell, Dexter had a major adversary he needed to bring down.

In “Original Sin,” a ‘mystery’ big bad has been set up through the kidnap and murder of a judge’s son, but this episode chooses to focus on the aftermath of Mad Dog’s death and Harry’s response instead. Meanwhile, the 70s flashbacks consume a significant portion of the runtime, offering an intriguing insight into Dexter’s early life.

As a passionate cinephile, I must say that the intense components in “Original Sin” are undeniably captivating, yet there’s a concern that needs addressing. For the viewers to fully invest in the intricate case at hand and understand Dexter’s dark passenger’s crucial role in apprehending the killer, this narrative thread should be consistently present throughout each episode. Regrettably, its absence seems like a significant oversight.

Moreover, two new characters, Sarah Michelle Gellar’s CSI expert Tanya Martin and Patrick Dempsey’s Miami Metro chief Aaron Spencer, appear to lack the necessary screen time to truly shine. Their infrequent appearances and insignificant actions leave me yearning for more depth in their characters.

Dexter and Harry’s Twisted Bond Is Developed Well And Sets Up An Exciting Second Half Of the Season

In this specific episode, the theme of Original Sin is interwoven with Harry Morgan’s narrative, particularly delving into the events preceding Laura Moser’s murder. The struggles faced by the seasoned detective in the 90s timeline are captivating as he strives to keep Dexter from tearing apart the Morgan family due to his secretive activities. Interestingly, a twist unfolds in their relationship as Harry finds himself on Dexter’s kill list, serving as a test subject for the horse tranquilizer that later becomes integral to Dexter’s methods.

Christian Slater delivers an exceptional performance in this episode, embodying two distinct versions of Harry: the man he was before Dexter fully came under his care, and the older, more experienced one who is grappling with the reality of his adopted son’s transformation.

As a devoted cinephile, I can say that Patrick Dempsey’s comedic touch in “Original Sin” was spot on, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. The scene where Dexter gets high on Deb’s marijuana-laced brownies had me laughing out loud! It wasn’t just funny; it also shed light on the unique bond between them, a bond that would only strengthen after Harry’s passing.

Although “Original Sin” focuses more on Dexter’s relationship with Harry, given we haven’t seen much of it before, I can understand why. With Harry still present, the episode delves deeper into this relationship, which is quite intriguing for viewers.

In all, a solid episode that promises even more drama ahead.

Dexter: Original Sin Episodes 1-5 Are Available to Stream on Paramount+ with Showtime Now

Read More

2025-01-05 19:33