I was afraid I'd miss this show, since I don't subscribe to Showtime, but a friend of mine does. I have watched all the episodes to date and must say I am impressed. While I am a TV snob and won't watch network TV at all, I will admit to being an avid fan of "Six Feet Under". So, I was prone to like Michael C. Hall in this series. In fact, I may have cut him some slack. I didn't have to. He has played this part with wonderful nuance and humor. His narrations are excellent. His facial pallet is subtle, funny and sometimes just plain scary. He's also a buffed, sexually appealing character who is also sexually dysfunctional. The writing is as good as it gets. The supporting cast is uniformly talented and at times impressive. Lauren Velez and C. S. Lee stand out. The special effects are chilling. I hope this gets another season. I'm hooked. Catch it, if you can.
36 Reviews
"My name is Dexter. Dexter Morgan"
MaxBorg892 August 2008
After gaining critical praise but little international fame with bold shows like Queer as Folk and the prematurely terminated Huff, Showtime has finally imposed itself as a cable channel to rival HBO with its bravest project yet, an unconventional take on the cop series, inspired by a novel by Jeff Lindsay. Then again, the success of Dexter shouldn't come as a surprise, considering many important people working on the show are HBO veterans, like series creator James Manos Jr. (a former Sopranos writer/producer) and actors Michael C. Hall (Six Feet Under), Lauren Velez, Erik King, David Zayas (all of whom appeared on Oz) and James Remar (Sex and the City).
Hall is the show's star, Dexter Morgan, a most peculiar man: the first we see of him is one hell of an opening scene where he states "Tonight's the night" before kidnapping a businessman and dismembering him on the grounds that he raped and killed three boys. So is he a vigilante? Not exactly: Dexter has had homicidal urges since he was a child, and the only person who noticed this was his stepfather Harry (Remar). Under the guidance of the latter, who was a cop, Dexter developed a "moral code" according to which he only kills murderers who manage to get away with it, following a specific ritual: a sample of the victim's blood is collected and placed on a glass slide, the act itself is committed somewhere safe, so that our "hero" won't get caught, and the remains are dumped into the ocean.
Of course, this only occurs during the night. By day, Dexter works for the Miami Metro Police Department, just like his stepsister Debra (Jennifer Carpenter), a Vice officer. To be specific, he's a forensics blood specialist, and frequently uses his skills to give valuable clues to Det. Angel Batista (Zayas) or Lt. Maria Laguerta (Velez). The only one in the precinct who just won't get along with him is the suspicious Sgt. James Doakes (King). It's a very calm daily routine, soon shaken up by a new challenge for the police: a serial killer who mutilates prostitutes with a unique method, leaving no blood in or on the bodies.
The tricky aspect of the series was getting away with the fact that the main character is a psychopath with no emotions, especially when he's played by someone best known for portraying an introverted gay man. As it turns out, there was no need to worry: Hall nails the role from the first frame, his paced voice-over being a fundamental tool in expressing the thoughts and feelings (or lack thereof) of one of contemporary TV's most original creations. A similar casting gamble occurred with the main female role, that of Dexter's girlfriend Rita, a fragile single mother who used to get repeatedly raped and beaten by her ex-husband, who's now serving time in jail. Normally, network execs wouldn't think of one of television's most famous villains, the vampire Darla of Buffy and Angel fame, as the ideal choice for such a complex part, but Julie Benz gets it right instantly, especially in her scenes with Hall, making the relationship between the two oddly moving.
This has all the ingredients of what is set to be an excellent series: an intriguing premise, strong writing and solidly built characters. Not to mention a healthy dose of black humor. Line of choice? Dexter's remark about a bizarre food-related tradition that takes place at a fair: "Needless to say I have some unusual habits, yet all these socially acceptable people can't wait to pick up hammers and smash their food to pieces. Normal people are so hostile". How can one not love a character like that?
Hall is the show's star, Dexter Morgan, a most peculiar man: the first we see of him is one hell of an opening scene where he states "Tonight's the night" before kidnapping a businessman and dismembering him on the grounds that he raped and killed three boys. So is he a vigilante? Not exactly: Dexter has had homicidal urges since he was a child, and the only person who noticed this was his stepfather Harry (Remar). Under the guidance of the latter, who was a cop, Dexter developed a "moral code" according to which he only kills murderers who manage to get away with it, following a specific ritual: a sample of the victim's blood is collected and placed on a glass slide, the act itself is committed somewhere safe, so that our "hero" won't get caught, and the remains are dumped into the ocean.
Of course, this only occurs during the night. By day, Dexter works for the Miami Metro Police Department, just like his stepsister Debra (Jennifer Carpenter), a Vice officer. To be specific, he's a forensics blood specialist, and frequently uses his skills to give valuable clues to Det. Angel Batista (Zayas) or Lt. Maria Laguerta (Velez). The only one in the precinct who just won't get along with him is the suspicious Sgt. James Doakes (King). It's a very calm daily routine, soon shaken up by a new challenge for the police: a serial killer who mutilates prostitutes with a unique method, leaving no blood in or on the bodies.
The tricky aspect of the series was getting away with the fact that the main character is a psychopath with no emotions, especially when he's played by someone best known for portraying an introverted gay man. As it turns out, there was no need to worry: Hall nails the role from the first frame, his paced voice-over being a fundamental tool in expressing the thoughts and feelings (or lack thereof) of one of contemporary TV's most original creations. A similar casting gamble occurred with the main female role, that of Dexter's girlfriend Rita, a fragile single mother who used to get repeatedly raped and beaten by her ex-husband, who's now serving time in jail. Normally, network execs wouldn't think of one of television's most famous villains, the vampire Darla of Buffy and Angel fame, as the ideal choice for such a complex part, but Julie Benz gets it right instantly, especially in her scenes with Hall, making the relationship between the two oddly moving.
This has all the ingredients of what is set to be an excellent series: an intriguing premise, strong writing and solidly built characters. Not to mention a healthy dose of black humor. Line of choice? Dexter's remark about a bizarre food-related tradition that takes place at a fair: "Needless to say I have some unusual habits, yet all these socially acceptable people can't wait to pick up hammers and smash their food to pieces. Normal people are so hostile". How can one not love a character like that?
An unconventional drama with a promising start
DVD_Connoisseur14 July 2007
The opening episode of "Dexter" is a glossy and well produced affair. With an unconventional, bold premise, the show is likely to have a long future.
"Six Feet Under"'s Michael C. Hall plays the lead character, a serial killer turned CSI forensic examiner. Hall delivers lines with a deadpan, black as night humour and the show really entertains despite its unwholesome content. Dexter is a "good" serial killer - he only chases the bad guys (in this episode we see him dispatch a paedophile and a mother killer). The show's an interesting test of the viewer's moral compass. Does Dexter deserve to be caught or is he performing a public service?
"Angel"'s Julie Benz plays Dexter's love interest, a woman who is uninterested in physical closeness (much to his relief).
Dark and macabre content but entertaining and humorous, this is a genuinely original show. Long may it continue.
"Six Feet Under"'s Michael C. Hall plays the lead character, a serial killer turned CSI forensic examiner. Hall delivers lines with a deadpan, black as night humour and the show really entertains despite its unwholesome content. Dexter is a "good" serial killer - he only chases the bad guys (in this episode we see him dispatch a paedophile and a mother killer). The show's an interesting test of the viewer's moral compass. Does Dexter deserve to be caught or is he performing a public service?
"Angel"'s Julie Benz plays Dexter's love interest, a woman who is uninterested in physical closeness (much to his relief).
Dark and macabre content but entertaining and humorous, this is a genuinely original show. Long may it continue.
Dexter rocks
cenobitespawn-126 November 2006
I do not watch many series on television, being a horror fan it is very hard to find many things that have a whole lot of appeal to me. Dexter however is just dark and twisted enough that it really keeps me interested, the killings are very well thought out. This is not to say that the show is super gory, most of it is implied gore, which works very well. The acting is amazing . Michael C hall is the perfect incarnation of Dexter and it almost as if Jeff Lindsay wrote the character for him, The seires does stray from the story in the book a little bit, but I feel the changes are for the better. Another thing I really enjoyed about this series , is i can watch it with my girlfriend who absolutely hates gore and horror , but loves csi and law and order the show has a lot of elements that appeal to both of us, so we can sit and enjoy it together which happens very rarely so this show hit a major home run with me!
Conflicting emotions about Dexter Morgan
meem_rahman26 December 2006
A serial killer who works for the police department. What an intriguing storyline. A good bad-guy, or a bad good-guy. Maybe both. You decide. Give yourself the opportunity to have a first-hand opinion about Dexter. I loved this show from the first episode to the last. I am now going to get the book because there's no way I want to miss the opportunity to get into the mind of Dexter (and I'm sure the book won't let me down). Truly macabre and stirred in me some really conflicting emotions. How can I condone the actions of Dexter. He seems no better than the serial killers he "puts down". But he lives (and kills) by a code. The code of Harry, which differentiates him from the other killers and herein lies the conflict.
The beginning of the episodes is somewhat disturbing and deliberately so as it sets the tone for each episode. I'm a fan of thrillers and horrors and this certainly satiated my appetite for quality thrillers. Definitely worth a watch. I know I'm hooked!
Michael C Hall plays a fantastic Dexter.
The beginning of the episodes is somewhat disturbing and deliberately so as it sets the tone for each episode. I'm a fan of thrillers and horrors and this certainly satiated my appetite for quality thrillers. Definitely worth a watch. I know I'm hooked!
Michael C Hall plays a fantastic Dexter.
Great show: one of the best shows I've ever seen
ehendin22 November 2006
Warning: Spoilers
This is a great show. I am not a big fan of serial killer or horror films, but this is so well written and acted I am totally hooked. Michael C. Hall is fantastic.
I love that they get into Dexter's past and help you understand why he kills only those that have committed heinous acts. American Psycho was also a great flick, but this to me is actually a lot more interesting, particularly because in the course of the series he has a relationship with a woman, and also because of the multitude of different set-ups and story lines the movie contains...
Michael C. Hall is quickly becoming one of my favorite contemporary actors.
The music is also fantastic, and considering the content of the show, it's actually not terribly gory, which I'm very happy about as well.
I love that they get into Dexter's past and help you understand why he kills only those that have committed heinous acts. American Psycho was also a great flick, but this to me is actually a lot more interesting, particularly because in the course of the series he has a relationship with a woman, and also because of the multitude of different set-ups and story lines the movie contains...
Michael C. Hall is quickly becoming one of my favorite contemporary actors.
The music is also fantastic, and considering the content of the show, it's actually not terribly gory, which I'm very happy about as well.
Takes life! Seriously!
miskimees4 June 2009
I'm not much television person. I'd rather go to cinema or rent a DVD but I don't watch many television series on TV(there are some exceptions like "Six Feet Under", "Californication" and "X-Files"). I've heard a lot of good about Dexter and how great is Michael C Hall in the role of sociopath serial killer and crime genius. I also enjoyed him in Six Feet Under. It's too bad he has so few roles in movies.
So I finally had chance to see the first episode of Dexter. The first episode was promising. And I have to say that I'm now forced to purchase a Dexter's DVD set.
I started to feel sympathy against Michael C Hall's Dexter Morgan. With television shows it happens rarely with me that I fell into a character.
I hope the next episodes only raise my ardor and I will stay the fan of the series.
So I finally had chance to see the first episode of Dexter. The first episode was promising. And I have to say that I'm now forced to purchase a Dexter's DVD set.
I started to feel sympathy against Michael C Hall's Dexter Morgan. With television shows it happens rarely with me that I fell into a character.
I hope the next episodes only raise my ardor and I will stay the fan of the series.
Six Feet Under and then some.....
yossarian10017 October 2006
Michael C. Hall, who delivered a near perfect character in the role of David Fisher in SIX FEET UNDER, serves up yet another sumptuous performance as a serial killer with a difference in the darkly comedic DEXTER on the Showtime Channel. What makes the meat and potatoes of this show actually work is some heavy duty psychological theories about what turns a human into a serial killer and what happens if someone redirects that person early enough in their life to channel all that negative thought and behavior into something else...just as lethal but so much easier to watch on TV. And, work it does. Michael Cuesta, who directed some of the SIX FEET UNDER episodes, gives the show a familiar feel while James Manos, Jr writes some excellent introductory teleplays to establish what I'm sure is about to become another cult favorite.
I love, love, love this show.
keemo712 December 2006
I grew up on black and white film noir and have a sincere love of movies and TV shows that are edgy and dark. I watch a ton of TV, mostly movies (obviously), Natl Geo., History channel, Animal (so sad about Steve Irwin) channel, Discovery, etc. I don't watch much episodic TV, but when I saw the ads, I thought Dexter looked very intriguing and right up my alley. This show is so well written and acted I can hardly believe it. Every show is more fascinating than the last. These characters have tremendous depth, and are stunningly magnetic, and the character development is seamless. Each show is entirely absorbing and leaves you wanting more. My only problem is that I am thoroughly addicted to this show and look at Dexter as my hero. Michael C. Hall portrays this character with such realism that it's hard to believe that he isn't Dexter! An incredible acting role for an amazing actor!! BONUS...he's also very attractive. As Doug Heffernan would say "What a bilgistic hunk of man meat!!" As the show progresses, I grow more and more concerned for Dexter's future. I swear if Showtime kills off Dexter, I will never watch Showtime again!!
A fine start to the series.
Hey_Sweden5 July 2013
Warning: Spoilers
In this, the debut episode of the 'Dexter' series, the highly engaging Michael C. Hall introduces the character of Dexter Morgan, an offbeat forensic detective (specializing in blood spatter) manages to channel his impulse to kill and do it for the greater good. Those he murders are very much those who've earned their demise, by doing horrible things, and in some cases, by having eluded justice.
We see Dexter busy at both jobs, working to solve the crimes of other killers by day and dispensing his own brutal brand of justice by night. He helps out his sister Debra (Jennifer Carpenter) by offering her his expert opinions on a series of killings. Secretly, he's admiring the work of this madman, and figures out the secret behind their ability to avoid blood loss. Before long, this killer presents Dexter with a grisly gift.
What makes this episode a good deal of fun well establishes the traits of the series, such as a macabre sensibility and a dark sense of humour. Hall is excellent in the title role, delivering a disarming performance that you can't help but like. And the rest of the cast is solid, from Julie Benz as Dexters' sweet girlfriend Rita to Carpenter to Erik King as the hostile Sergeant Doakes to veteran James Remar as Dexters' loving foster dad, seen in flashbacks. We learn a little bit about Dexters' past, how he got started killing, and are treated to his witty narration throughout.
This viewer is just sorry he's taken this long to get around to committing to checking out this series. 'Dexter' just whets the appetite for more time with these characters and situations.
Eight out of 10.
We see Dexter busy at both jobs, working to solve the crimes of other killers by day and dispensing his own brutal brand of justice by night. He helps out his sister Debra (Jennifer Carpenter) by offering her his expert opinions on a series of killings. Secretly, he's admiring the work of this madman, and figures out the secret behind their ability to avoid blood loss. Before long, this killer presents Dexter with a grisly gift.
What makes this episode a good deal of fun well establishes the traits of the series, such as a macabre sensibility and a dark sense of humour. Hall is excellent in the title role, delivering a disarming performance that you can't help but like. And the rest of the cast is solid, from Julie Benz as Dexters' sweet girlfriend Rita to Carpenter to Erik King as the hostile Sergeant Doakes to veteran James Remar as Dexters' loving foster dad, seen in flashbacks. We learn a little bit about Dexters' past, how he got started killing, and are treated to his witty narration throughout.
This viewer is just sorry he's taken this long to get around to committing to checking out this series. 'Dexter' just whets the appetite for more time with these characters and situations.
Eight out of 10.
The Serial-Killer of the Killers
claudio_carvalho25 January 2009
In Miami, the orphan Dexter Morgan (Michael C. Hall) is raised by detective Harry Morgan (James Remar) that discovers that his foster son urges to kill. Harry directs the impulse of the boy to kill bad people, teaching him how to operate without leaving any trace. After the death of Harry, Dexter works in the forensic department of the Miami Police Department, where his stepsister Debra Morgan (Jennifer Carpenter) works in the Vice and Narcotics Unit. During the vacant nights, Dexter has a double-life, chasing and killing murderers and collecting samples of their bloods, or dating Rita Bennett (Julie Benz), a woman brutally raped many times by her husband and drug-dealer that feels no sex drive like him. After executing a pedophile and a rapist that have killed their victims, Dexter investigates an intriguing serial-killer that drains the blood and freezes the severed bodies of his victims.
The promising "Dexter" has an original and weird plot about a nice serial-killer of the killers that are not punished by law and a great potential of cult. The awesome Michael C. Hall (from "Six Feet Under") performs a contradictory and twisted vigilante with conflictive feelings, actually a very bad "good-guy". His character has no feelings for anybody and his attraction for the character performed by the gorgeous Julie Benz (from "Angel") is just because she has no sex drive, lost due to her abusive husband. In flashbacks, it is disclosed that Dexter is orphan of unknown parents and his impulse for killing unleashed when he was a boy. My vote is nine.
Title (Brazil): "Dexter"
The promising "Dexter" has an original and weird plot about a nice serial-killer of the killers that are not punished by law and a great potential of cult. The awesome Michael C. Hall (from "Six Feet Under") performs a contradictory and twisted vigilante with conflictive feelings, actually a very bad "good-guy". His character has no feelings for anybody and his attraction for the character performed by the gorgeous Julie Benz (from "Angel") is just because she has no sex drive, lost due to her abusive husband. In flashbacks, it is disclosed that Dexter is orphan of unknown parents and his impulse for killing unleashed when he was a boy. My vote is nine.
Title (Brazil): "Dexter"
The avenging killer
jotix10011 October 2010
Warning: Spoilers
Dexter Morgan, a police forensic, is introduced in this chapter of the first season. He is an orphan who was raised by the kind man, a police officer, who early on discovers his adopted son shows all the characteristics of a killer, when Harry Morgan discovers, first animal bones, and later on, the tools that were employed in the act of eliminating the dogs that were annoying Dexter's adoptive mother.
When the body of a woman, probably a prostitute, is found in the empty swimming pool of a seedy motel, Dexter being near the place, decides to take a look. To his amazement, there is not one trace of blood in the many sections the detectives found, something that puzzles Dexter. His sister Debra, working also for the police force is in the area, where she has been working undercover for the vice squad.
Prior, Dexter had made a grisly discovery when he found the bodies of some children. He knows who is the man that is responsible for the murders. The occasion for getting this criminal gives Dexter a chance to avenge the crimes of this individual that has been able to elude the law.
The mystery of the body parts showing no trace of blood is solved when Dexter acts on something Debra, innocently told her brother. It makes sense that whoever killed the prostitute did it in an environment where he was able not to leave blood, or other incriminating clues because the murder was done on a refrigerated truck. What's more, Dexter gets lucky when he goes after a man who is involved in an internet porno site.
Our young forensic expert has been seeing a divorced lady with two kids. Rita, the woman, feels it is too early to be dating anyone. The first date goes well, but Dexter wants more, something Rita is not yet prepared for.
A great first episode in this amazingly enjoyable series. Written by James Manos, who is adapting the Jeff Lindsay novel to television, and directed with style by Michael Cuesta, this is one of the most intriguing series involving a "good" assassin, who has its heart in the right place.
Michael C. Hall makes a great Dexter. We hear his thoughts more than his own voice. Do not try to fool this man because he is so smart, chances are he will know what one's up juts by looking at you. The supporting cast works well as an ensemble. Julie Benz, Jennifer Carpenter, David Zayas, Erick King and Lauren Velez among the cast members do a credible job for director Cuesta.
A series to follow by discerning fans.
When the body of a woman, probably a prostitute, is found in the empty swimming pool of a seedy motel, Dexter being near the place, decides to take a look. To his amazement, there is not one trace of blood in the many sections the detectives found, something that puzzles Dexter. His sister Debra, working also for the police force is in the area, where she has been working undercover for the vice squad.
Prior, Dexter had made a grisly discovery when he found the bodies of some children. He knows who is the man that is responsible for the murders. The occasion for getting this criminal gives Dexter a chance to avenge the crimes of this individual that has been able to elude the law.
The mystery of the body parts showing no trace of blood is solved when Dexter acts on something Debra, innocently told her brother. It makes sense that whoever killed the prostitute did it in an environment where he was able not to leave blood, or other incriminating clues because the murder was done on a refrigerated truck. What's more, Dexter gets lucky when he goes after a man who is involved in an internet porno site.
Our young forensic expert has been seeing a divorced lady with two kids. Rita, the woman, feels it is too early to be dating anyone. The first date goes well, but Dexter wants more, something Rita is not yet prepared for.
A great first episode in this amazingly enjoyable series. Written by James Manos, who is adapting the Jeff Lindsay novel to television, and directed with style by Michael Cuesta, this is one of the most intriguing series involving a "good" assassin, who has its heart in the right place.
Michael C. Hall makes a great Dexter. We hear his thoughts more than his own voice. Do not try to fool this man because he is so smart, chances are he will know what one's up juts by looking at you. The supporting cast works well as an ensemble. Julie Benz, Jennifer Carpenter, David Zayas, Erick King and Lauren Velez among the cast members do a credible job for director Cuesta.
A series to follow by discerning fans.
Maybe a bit too soon to judge...?
CharlottaG28 January 2016
Warning: Spoilers
Alright, so I'm like really late on this hype, like, 10 years late. But, hey, I'm here now! So, of course I have heard a lot about dexter and how great it's supposed to be, and maybe that has made my expectations a tad bit unrealistic. So I'm a sucker for psychopaths, sociopaths or just plain unpredicta ble unstable persons overall in movies and TV-series. So I thought that this would be great. Well, turns out it's not really what I expected. I just feel like all of the characters so far are kind of flat and not very realistic or 'popping'. Dexter's character is a bit better with some more complex attributes and questions. But overall, not too exciting. Other than that my main reactions to this pilot is that the different cases are far too rapid for my taste, and from an aesthetic point of view this wasn't at all pleasing (blood effects and so on) (and yes, this is from 2006, and yes, maybe you can't really judge it based on todays knowledge, but I can't help it) Maybe it's a bit early to judge, but if this is how it will all go down I'm not too keen on hanging around till the end.
Eh..
ptibbertsma10 March 2008
Warning: Spoilers
This show, while having an excellent idea behind (in my mind a Bret Easton Ellis rip off, proved by the recurring Easton Ellis character names. See trivia page) has been dumbed down for TV.
The sets often remind me of something you would see on Veronica Mars. The colourful Miami setting fails to remind me of the tortured existence of a serial killer.
At times characters mention how meticulous Dexter is but he never really describes things in such a fashion. His dialog lacks the ramblings of an idiot savant serial killer, someone who barely controls his blood lust.
Although I think the show is generally not that bad, when measuring up Dexter and its inspiration, American Psycho it comes up second best. I have yet to read Darkly Dreaming Dexter but I'm sure I will come to the same conclusion.
The sets often remind me of something you would see on Veronica Mars. The colourful Miami setting fails to remind me of the tortured existence of a serial killer.
At times characters mention how meticulous Dexter is but he never really describes things in such a fashion. His dialog lacks the ramblings of an idiot savant serial killer, someone who barely controls his blood lust.
Although I think the show is generally not that bad, when measuring up Dexter and its inspiration, American Psycho it comes up second best. I have yet to read Darkly Dreaming Dexter but I'm sure I will come to the same conclusion.
Pilot
dannylee-7808217 October 2021
Even as a pilot, Dexter shows a lot of character depth and immediately connects the viewers to the main character, Dexter Gordon.
A sort of a high-functioning psychopath serial killer - he is full of contradictions.
A killer working in the police dept and emotionless robot with hatred towards other evil sources.
Really love the shows setting so far and Am looking forward to dig into... 8 seasons of this.
A sort of a high-functioning psychopath serial killer - he is full of contradictions.
A killer working in the police dept and emotionless robot with hatred towards other evil sources.
Really love the shows setting so far and Am looking forward to dig into... 8 seasons of this.
Dexter
MrFilmAndTelevisionShow2 September 2021
Warning: Spoilers
What a good episode, a very interesting watch, after this set up episode I do wonder what they'll do next, given one of his co-workers is already suspcious of him, not thinking he's some sort of psycho killer, rather he's just some sort of psycho, and they're right, but given the fact he seems to glory in his job I'm surprised other's haven't clocked it yet. He could definitely be more careful in disguising his true self.
Great start
scottandmelindaever25 April 2020
Very Intriguing Premise!
g-bodyl9 August 2013
Dexter seems to be a very intriguing show with an interesting plot and great character development. This show seems to be popular and judging from this first episode, I can see why. I love the voice-over narration since it adds more to the story and through the voice-over, we learn a lot about Dexter. Even though Dexter is a serial killer, I can't help but feel sympathy for him since he only kills the bad guys.
This pilot episode is about Dexter and his profession. By day, he's a blood spatter analyst and by night, he's a killer hunting people down. This episode focuses on a killer who leaves his bodies bloodless.
I think Anthony C. Hall is perfect for this role. His persona is just right for Dexter and this guy shows no emotion for people whether he likes them or not.
Overall, this is a great episode to start of a series. I also learned a thing or two about some forensics. Bring on more episodes! I rate this episode 9/10.
This pilot episode is about Dexter and his profession. By day, he's a blood spatter analyst and by night, he's a killer hunting people down. This episode focuses on a killer who leaves his bodies bloodless.
I think Anthony C. Hall is perfect for this role. His persona is just right for Dexter and this guy shows no emotion for people whether he likes them or not.
Overall, this is a great episode to start of a series. I also learned a thing or two about some forensics. Bring on more episodes! I rate this episode 9/10.
Grippingly Different
shadow_blade-8945916 May 2018
"Dexter," Season 1, Episode 1: "Dexter" (2006) is a professionally produced crime drama about blood spatter expert, Dexter Morgan played by Michael Hall, that works for the Miami Police Department during the day and is a serial killer by night This episode is 53 minutes of interestingly intriguing storylines and mostly excellent acting. Dexter, the emotionless yet intellectual killer, is hero you hesitantly root for as he uses his unconventionally hidden sickness to rid the city of murderers. His need for blood is balanced by the normalcy of his girlfriend, Rita played by Julie Benz, and sister, Debra played by Jennifer Carpenter. The acting in this pilot is "hit or miss" but doesn't completely detract from the main storyline that is too fascinating to ignore.
This pilot is captivating and is reminiscent of an onion in that there are many layers to follow which allow the show to venture off in any direction desired. When I stumbled upon this show, I had given up on television dramas and this episode spun me up. It showed me that Hollywood hasn't exhausted all their ideas and firmly placed me on my sofa for every airing. This show has a similar formula to current shows I enjoy of two storylines within one episode, even if it seems a little looser than other shows. I believe the loose appearance is due to every character having their own storyline within the two major stories already tailored to the audience. This is a great show and I highly recommend it to anyone who tired of the same old concepts.
This pilot is captivating and is reminiscent of an onion in that there are many layers to follow which allow the show to venture off in any direction desired. When I stumbled upon this show, I had given up on television dramas and this episode spun me up. It showed me that Hollywood hasn't exhausted all their ideas and firmly placed me on my sofa for every airing. This show has a similar formula to current shows I enjoy of two storylines within one episode, even if it seems a little looser than other shows. I believe the loose appearance is due to every character having their own storyline within the two major stories already tailored to the audience. This is a great show and I highly recommend it to anyone who tired of the same old concepts.
Yes, I wanna play
ahmxii6 December 2021
A Bloody Serial Killer
ZegMaarJus28 March 2021
Warning: Spoilers
This episode begins with Dexter in Miami, he strangles Mike Donovan in his car. Dexter poisoned Mike, Dexter ripped his head off. Dexter enters the crime scene, a prostitute has been killed. Dexter is on a date but also near a crime scene. Dexter poisoned Jaworski. Jaworski confessed the murder. Dexter killed Jaworski. Dexter follows the ice truck, the driver trow a head out of the truck. Nice episode of Dexter Season 1, a nice beginning of this serial killer series. Dexter seems a nice guy but he is a massive serial killer.
BEST pilot ever!
John_Chewy20 May 2019
I have never been so instantly hooked to a TV show like I was with Dexter! You usually have to give most shows a few episodes in order to get into them, but I had to watch the next episode of Dexter immediately. Then the next one, and the next one, and so on, until I realized that I was up in the early AM hours. Then there's the "killer" premise. A serial killer that has a code and only kills other killers. It doesn't get better than that in my book! Michael C. Hall's voice over is key as helps you to step inside the mind of a serial killer and see where your morals stand in comparison. Basically, Showtime not only invites you to root for an anti-hero, but one that is a serial killer (gotta love it). I can't imagine any other actor playing Dexter as Michael C Hall fits the role perfectly.
Killer premise
Fluke_Skywalker26 July 2018
Warning: Spoilers
Plot; Hiding behind the persona of a mild mannered forensic technician, Dexter Morgan whets his appetite for murder by targeting only the most heinous of victims as a sort of vigilante serial killer.
The premise here is, if you'll pardon my choice of words, killer. Anti-heroes are rather common in entertainment these days and characters like Hannibal Lector have often stolen the show from their more banal goody-goody counterparts, but to put a serial killer front and center as your chief protagonist is a stroke of genius. In this first episode we learn that a young Dexter Morgan's murderous traits were spotted early by his Foster Father, himself a police officer, and then channeled into a more... positive(?) direction. Young Dexter grows up to be a blood splatter expert for the police and sets out to target only the most loathsome among us. Those who have time and time again escaped justice. What a hook, rife w/possibilities.
This first episode sets up what appears to be a season long arc where a fellow serial killer goes about his gruesome work in a tete-a-tete w/Dexter, whose secret he seemingly knows. The character of Dexter is played brilliantly by actor Michael C. Hall. The "real" Dexter is an emotionally detached loner, but his public persona is outgoing and genial. Watching Hall shift seamlessly between the two is impressive and a treat to behold.
This thrift store pickup was a blind buy. I was certainly aware of the series, but not in any real detail. After one episode I'm certainly game to follow this unique "hero" on another outing.
The premise here is, if you'll pardon my choice of words, killer. Anti-heroes are rather common in entertainment these days and characters like Hannibal Lector have often stolen the show from their more banal goody-goody counterparts, but to put a serial killer front and center as your chief protagonist is a stroke of genius. In this first episode we learn that a young Dexter Morgan's murderous traits were spotted early by his Foster Father, himself a police officer, and then channeled into a more... positive(?) direction. Young Dexter grows up to be a blood splatter expert for the police and sets out to target only the most loathsome among us. Those who have time and time again escaped justice. What a hook, rife w/possibilities.
This first episode sets up what appears to be a season long arc where a fellow serial killer goes about his gruesome work in a tete-a-tete w/Dexter, whose secret he seemingly knows. The character of Dexter is played brilliantly by actor Michael C. Hall. The "real" Dexter is an emotionally detached loner, but his public persona is outgoing and genial. Watching Hall shift seamlessly between the two is impressive and a treat to behold.
This thrift store pickup was a blind buy. I was certainly aware of the series, but not in any real detail. After one episode I'm certainly game to follow this unique "hero" on another outing.
If you want to hear the lead character drone on from one cliché to the next, watch this.
NeilCardiff9 July 2007
Warning: Spoilers
Spoilers.
How can a show that is so desperately trying to be different be so full of cliché and formula? The lead character is supposed to be charming, but he just spouts so much drivel that you get really bored very quickly.
I agree with others. It comes across like the desperate attempts of an unintelligent adolescent to be deep and meaningful.
That brings me to the flashbacks, straight out of Serial Killers for Dummies. and the conversations about killing animals and wanting to kill people Dexter the kid has with his father, HOW RIDICULOUS
It's not just the Monologue that is contrived, so are the sets. In ep1, check out the completely white room with all the blood splatters and red ribbons. There for a visual effect, nothing more. Anyway it failed, it just looks tacky.
All in all a quite amateur attempt to creep people out mixed with a very mediocre cop show.
Not a truly awful attempt but could have done better, Much better.
4/10 for effort.
How can a show that is so desperately trying to be different be so full of cliché and formula? The lead character is supposed to be charming, but he just spouts so much drivel that you get really bored very quickly.
I agree with others. It comes across like the desperate attempts of an unintelligent adolescent to be deep and meaningful.
That brings me to the flashbacks, straight out of Serial Killers for Dummies. and the conversations about killing animals and wanting to kill people Dexter the kid has with his father, HOW RIDICULOUS
It's not just the Monologue that is contrived, so are the sets. In ep1, check out the completely white room with all the blood splatters and red ribbons. There for a visual effect, nothing more. Anyway it failed, it just looks tacky.
All in all a quite amateur attempt to creep people out mixed with a very mediocre cop show.
Not a truly awful attempt but could have done better, Much better.
4/10 for effort.
Dexter: Okay. Uh, is there something I can... Doakes: Yeah, you can get me your f***ing analysis on the blood spatter on these killings!
antisocial118 December 2010
Warning: Spoilers
Damn watching this episode sure makes me miss Doakes, laughs a plenty.
To start the episode, Dex captures Mike Donovan, takes him to show the victims he's killed and then kills him. This start is quite off putting, it is very unlike all the other kills he does during the series. He also does some weird hand posturing. You could take this part out and it wouldn't have any affect on the episode. It has probably turned a lot of people off watching the show entirely.
Dexter says a lot of things about himself in this episode, a lot of which I don't buy into. e.g. Dex says he has no feelings for anyone. In a flashback as a kid, he says to his dad that he killed the dog because it barked nonstop and it was annoying his sick mum, that shows he cared about her. He also said to his dad, he hadn't killed anyone because you and mum wouldn't like it. Plus he shows he cares about Deb all the time. I love all the flashbacks as a kid, it is a better way of explaining things than Dex just saying something. James Remar is terrific in his small role.
I really like the moments Dexter has with Rita in this, Julie Benz has that beautiful playful smile. Rita's kids are at that cute age, so it is always enjoyable when Dex pops over there. Though I don't get why Dex says "kissing Rita was interesting" and "that was close", after a phone call interrupts them having sex. Just because he may not have feelings for her, doesn't mean he doesn't find her attractive. I know in a later episode he explains that if he were to have sex with her, she would see through him. Also that it would mean moving on to the next step in the relationship and that casual silly responses and so forth wouldn't cut it anymore. But he's still got to want her regardless, and it doesn't show.
Deb: "I'm gonna shame this bitch." ;] She mumbles and then gets shutdown. I love Deb!
All-in-all a very good start to perhaps, the best television series ever.
To start the episode, Dex captures Mike Donovan, takes him to show the victims he's killed and then kills him. This start is quite off putting, it is very unlike all the other kills he does during the series. He also does some weird hand posturing. You could take this part out and it wouldn't have any affect on the episode. It has probably turned a lot of people off watching the show entirely.
Dexter says a lot of things about himself in this episode, a lot of which I don't buy into. e.g. Dex says he has no feelings for anyone. In a flashback as a kid, he says to his dad that he killed the dog because it barked nonstop and it was annoying his sick mum, that shows he cared about her. He also said to his dad, he hadn't killed anyone because you and mum wouldn't like it. Plus he shows he cares about Deb all the time. I love all the flashbacks as a kid, it is a better way of explaining things than Dex just saying something. James Remar is terrific in his small role.
I really like the moments Dexter has with Rita in this, Julie Benz has that beautiful playful smile. Rita's kids are at that cute age, so it is always enjoyable when Dex pops over there. Though I don't get why Dex says "kissing Rita was interesting" and "that was close", after a phone call interrupts them having sex. Just because he may not have feelings for her, doesn't mean he doesn't find her attractive. I know in a later episode he explains that if he were to have sex with her, she would see through him. Also that it would mean moving on to the next step in the relationship and that casual silly responses and so forth wouldn't cut it anymore. But he's still got to want her regardless, and it doesn't show.
Deb: "I'm gonna shame this bitch." ;] She mumbles and then gets shutdown. I love Deb!
All-in-all a very good start to perhaps, the best television series ever.
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