The Dexter saga continues despite the seemingly fatal end of the titular character, Dexter, played by Michael C. Hall, in the sequel series 'New Blood.' The franchise, now moving backwards, has launched 'Dexter: Original Sin,' a prequel that explores the serial killer's early life.
Set in 1991, the 10-episode prequel series turns the time back to when 20-year-old Dexter, portrayed by Patrick Gibson, graduates from the University of Miami and joins the local police department as an intern. In a surprise twist, despite his apparent death, Dexter survives and frames the events of 'Original Sin' as memories he revisits while on the operating table.
However, a potential issue with 'Original Sin' is that it recycles familiar events, which long-term fans may find repetitive, as the original series was already abundant in flashbacks. Elements such as Dexter's mentorship under Harry, his adoptive father who guided Dexter's lethal urges towards killing criminals, and the reveal of his first victim are all part of established Dexter lore.
The series makes some bold choices, like revealing new information about Harry's character and his past in the colorful 1970s. However, many elements fall back on nostalgia, rehashing '90s pop culture and showcasing familiar characters with little change. Despite the fresh faces, such as Sarah Michelle Gellar as Dexter's new boss, the prequel doesn't draw much originality from the IP that's been around for several years.
Nonetheless, 'Dexter: Original Sin' is now available for streaming on Paramount+ and premiered on Showtime on Dec. 15 at 10 p.m. ET, with subsequent episodes releasing on Fridays and Sundays.
