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Michael C Hall in "Dexter"
courtesy of SHOWTIME
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"Dexter" (SHOWTIME)
"Dexter" returns to SHOWTIME for its second season. This series about a killer was a surprise hit last year, enough so that it was renewed. Michael C. Hall returns in the title role and he is eerily right for the part. He has theweasy likeability Dexter needs and the ingratiating manner that hides his darker side.
This year Dexter is still seeing Rita Bennett (Julie Benz) and going through all the motions of being normal and ordinary. His co-worker at the police station, Sgt. Doakes (Erik King) is still suspicious of him and vows to find out just what dark secrets Dexter is hiding.
Dexter is a vigilante type killer. He learns of the worst sort of people through his work as a blood splatter specialist on Miami's police force. When he learns of people who have gotten away with terrible crimes he goes after them. But don't think Dexter does it just to rid the streets of unsavory people; he also has a blood lust. It is only through his own murderous actions that he feels totally alive.
Michael C. Hall is perfectly cast as Dexter. He can play the "normal" person while at the same time giving insight into the turmoil inside Dexter's soul. It is a multi-layered, multi-faceted performance and one of the best ones on TV. It is hard to dislike Dexter when the amiable Mr. Hall is giving him life.
The supporting cast is also strong with James Remar being particularly effective as Dexter's foster father. Jennifer Carpenter also has some good moments as Debra, Dexter's foster sister. Lauren Velez, C S Lee, David Zayas and Erik King create a strong group of Dexter's co-workers.
It is hard to say that people can enjoy and appreciate the character of Dexter. He is a killer even if it is in the name of vigilante justice. Dexter likes the thrill of the chase and the execution of the people he selects. He is an anti-hero at best and a non-hero at worst.
There have been other shows with non-heroes, but in those there was at least a side character to cheer for. In this series Hall AKA Dexter is the show. No other person in the story comes close to matching his charisma and charm. He is a blood seeker first and foremost and the kindness and affability he sometimes projects is totally a sham.
Still there is something in this show that draws people to it. Viewers don't seem to care that they are pulling for a cold-blooded killer. They like Hall, they like Dexter, and they like the show. Go figure.
"Dexter" premieres on SHOWTIME, Sunday, September 30 at 9PM.
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©2007 Jackie K. Cooper |
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