The recent announcement of “Dexter: Origins” has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, leaving fans both elated and perplexed. After the controversial ending of the original series and the divisive revival “Dexter: New Blood,” the return of the beloved serial killer has raised numerous questions about how the character survived his apparent demise and what this means for the future of the franchise.
In the final episode of “New Blood,” Dexter Morgan (played by Michael C. Hall) seemingly met his end at the hands of his estranged son, Harrison. Harrison, who had discovered his father’s true nature, shot Dexter in the chest, leaving him to die in the arms of his love interest, Angela Bishop.
However, the announcement of “Dexter: Origins” has revealed that Dexter did not actually die from Harrison’s gunshot wound. Instead, he managed to survive and escape, thanks to a series of events that have yet to be fully explained.
According to Showtime, which is producing the prequel series, Dexter was able to use his surgical skills to remove the bullet from his chest. He then received medical assistance from Dr. Logan, a local surgeon who was unaware of Dexter’s true identity.
The resurrection of Dexter raises numerous complexities, both in terms of the character’s arc and the narrative potential of the new series.
The mere survival of Dexter poses challenges to the continuity of the original series and “New Blood.” How did he manage to escape from the authorities after shooting his son? Why did Harrison not pursue his father after inflicting the fatal wound?
Dexter’s resurrection also forces a re-examination of his character evolution. In “New Blood,” Dexter had seemingly embraced his humanity, choosing to live a peaceful life with Angela and his son. However, his apparent return to his old ways raises questions about the depth of his redemption.
While the resurrection of Dexter creates continuity challenges, it also opens up exciting narrative possibilities. “Dexter: Origins” will explore the events that led up to Dexter’s first murder, providing a deeper insight into the character’s psyche and motivations.
The series may also delve into Dexter’s relationship with Harrison, whose discovery of his father’s true nature created a profound rift between them. The prequel has the potential to explore the complexities of their relationship and the lasting impact of the events in “New Blood.”
The announcement of “Dexter: Origins” has garnered mixed reactions from critics. Some have expressed skepticism about the plausibility of Dexter’s survival and the need for a prequel series. Others have welcomed the opportunity to revisit the character and delve deeper into his backstory.
“The resurrection of Dexter feels like a desperate attempt to capitalize on the character’s popularity,” argues critic Emily VanDerWerff of Vox. “The original series had a definitive ending, and I’m not sure what this prequel will add to the story.”
However, other critics have praised the potential for “Dexter: Origins” to explore new aspects of the character. “I’m cautiously optimistic about this new series,” says critic Alan Sepinwall of Rolling Stone. “It has the potential to shed light on Dexter’s early life and motivations, which could make the character even more compelling.”
The resurrection of Dexter Morgan is a bold move that raises numerous questions and narrative possibilities. While it poses challenges to the continuity and character evolution of the original series, it also has the potential to provide a deeper insight into one of television’s most fascinating anti-heroes.
As “Dexter: Origins” unfolds, it will be fascinating to see how the writers address the complexities of Dexter’s survival and explore the new narrative avenues that his return opens up. Only time will tell if the prequel can live up to the legacy of the original series and satisfy the expectations of its loyal fanbase.
