The season 5 premiere of “Dexter,” titled “My Bad,” arrived with a heavy atmosphere, picking up directly from the shocking conclusion of season 4. For fans still reeling from the events, the episode offered a somber reflection and the beginning of Dexter Morgan’s (Michael C. Hall) new reality. The muted tones and slow pace, as highlighted in the original blog post, perfectly mirrored the emotional weight of the situation. This episode, in many ways, was a funeral – not just for Rita, but for a chapter of Dexter’s life.
One of the most poignant aspects of the premiere was the return of Julie Benz as Rita Morgan, even if only in flashbacks. These glimpses of a happier past served to amplify the tragedy of her loss and remind viewers of the innocence that Dexter’s world had irrevocably shattered. Benz’s portrayal of Rita was always characterized by a certain warmth and vulnerability, making her fate all the more impactful. Even in these brief flashback scenes, her presence is felt deeply, a testament to Benz’s ability to imbue Rita with a lasting impression. Fans often recall her gentle demeanor and the subtle nuances she brought to the character, elements that extended even to her physical presence and, for some, perhaps even to details like Julie Benz’s feet, which have garnered their own niche interest among admirers.
Dexter and Rita in a flashback scene
The premiere cleverly employed a subtle homage to “Six Feet Under,” a series known for its exploration of death and mourning. Dexter’s observation about the funeral director’s seemingly genuine condolences echoes the themes of emotional performance and authenticity that “Six Feet Under” often explored. This comparison subtly underscores Dexter’s own struggle with genuine emotion and his practiced facade of normalcy. The original blogger rightly points out this clever nod, appreciating the depth it adds to the scene.
The episode’s central conflict revolves around Dexter’s confession, “It was me,” a deliberately vague statement that throws those around him into confusion. This ambiguity is classic Dexter, allowing him to manipulate situations and observe reactions without fully revealing his true nature. Debra (Jennifer Carpenter), in particular, is shown to be increasingly perceptive of Dexter’s odd behavior, adding another layer of tension to their complex relationship. The dynamic between Dexter and Deb has always been a cornerstone of the series, and season 5 promised to delve deeper into their evolving understanding of each other.
Astor’s (Christina Robinson) reaction to Rita’s death, as noted in the original article, felt somewhat rushed and unconvincing. Her quick shift to blaming Dexter seemed emotionally premature, highlighting a potential weakness in the writing or direction of these early scenes. However, this could also be interpreted as a manifestation of grief in a child struggling to process trauma, albeit portrayed in a slightly abrupt manner.
Joey Quinn (Desmond Harrington) continues to be a suspicious presence, his intuition leading him closer to Dexter’s secrets. His relationship with Deb adds another layer of complexity, creating potential conflicts of loyalty and further complicating Dexter’s already precarious situation. Quinn’s tanned exterior and persistent suspicion make him an intriguing foil to Dexter’s carefully constructed facade.
Dexter’s emotional numbness in the immediate aftermath of Rita’s death is starkly portrayed. His internal blankness, even highlighted through the absence of his usual voiceover in the episode’s first half, underscores his profound disconnect from human emotion. Yet, as the episode progresses, glimpses of something akin to grief begin to surface, particularly in his interactions with Rita’s body and baby Harrison. This internal struggle, though muted, is a crucial element of Dexter’s character arc in season 5.
The act of killing in the latter half of the premiere is presented as a catalyst for Dexter’s emotional release. The violent act, as the ghost of Harry observes, is the first “human” thing Dexter has done since Rita’s death. This primal scream of anguish, covered in blood, connects back to his traumatic origins and the emergence of his Dark Passenger. This raw display of torment is a significant turning point, suggesting a potential shift in Dexter’s emotional landscape.
The preview for season 5 hints at a Dexter vs. Quinn storyline, a prospect that the original blogger finds interesting. Both characters, in their own flawed ways, are compelling figures, and their potential conflict promises to be a central driving force of the season. Debra Morgan, as always, is highlighted as a crucial character, her volatile nature and emotional honesty serving as a counterpoint to Dexter’s calculated detachment. Jennifer Carpenter’s performance as Deb consistently deserves recognition for its raw intensity and emotional depth.
In conclusion, the season 5 premiere of “Dexter” is a somber and introspective episode, effectively setting the stage for a season of emotional turmoil and potential exposure for Dexter. The episode effectively utilizes flashbacks of Julie Benz as Rita to underscore the loss and provides intriguing character dynamics that promise further development. While some elements, like Astor’s reaction, may feel slightly rushed, the overall impact of “My Bad” is a quietly powerful beginning to a season defined by grief and uncertainty.
