Dexter: New Blood Review: Hit or Miss? A Deep Dive into the Revival
Dexter's return in New Blood wasn't just a revival; it was a gamble. Could a show that ended so controversially be resurrected and satisfy both long-time fans and newcomers? The answer, like Dexter himself, is complex. This review dives deep into the strengths and weaknesses of Dexter: New Blood, ultimately deciding whether it's a hit or a miss.
A Return to the Dark Passenger: Strengths of New Blood
New Blood successfully tapped into what made the original Dexter so compelling: the captivating internal conflict. Dexter Morgan, living under the assumed identity of Jim Lindsay in the snowy town of Iron Lake, New York, faces a new set of challenges that force him to confront his past and his inherent nature. This internal struggle, the constant battle between his dark passenger and his desire for normalcy, is expertly portrayed by Michael C. Hall.
A Fresh Setting and New Challenges:
The isolated setting of Iron Lake provides a refreshing change of pace. The close-knit community, devoid of Miami Metro's bustling energy, creates a claustrophobic atmosphere that perfectly complements Dexter's secretive lifestyle. This new environment presents entirely new obstacles and challenges, keeping the narrative fresh and engaging.
Character Development: Angela Bishop and the Supporting Cast
The supporting cast is excellent. Angela Bishop, played by Julia Jones, stands out as a compelling character—a strong, intelligent police chief who becomes a fascinating foil to Dexter. Her inquisitive nature and unwavering dedication to justice create significant tension, leading to some truly gripping confrontations. The other characters, while not as extensively developed, add depth and complexity to the narrative.
The Dark Side of the Revival: Weaknesses of New Blood
Despite its strengths, New Blood isn't without its flaws. The pacing, while deliberate in certain aspects, feels uneven at times. Certain plot points drag, and some character arcs feel underdeveloped, leaving lingering questions and a sense of incompletion.
A Reworked Mythology:
While the show attempts to rectify some of the original series' missteps, particularly the controversial ending, it does so with a narrative that, for some, might feel contrived or unsatisfying. The attempts to "fix" past mistakes sometimes overshadow the present narrative.
A Bittersweet Ending:
The ending of New Blood, while conclusive, isn't universally praised. It's designed to offer a sense of closure, but the execution may leave some viewers feeling unsatisfied. The emotional impact is significant, but whether it's a successful or fitting conclusion is subjective.
The Verdict: Hit or Miss?
Dexter: New Blood is a mixed bag. It succeeds in reigniting the captivating tension and internal conflict that defined the original series, offering a compelling exploration of Dexter's character in a fresh setting. However, pacing issues, some underdeveloped character arcs, and a potentially divisive ending prevent it from achieving true greatness.
Ultimately, whether New Blood is a hit or a miss depends on your individual expectations and tolerance for a more melancholic and introspective take on the Dexter mythos. It's a worthy successor in many aspects, but not a perfect one. For long-time fans, it offers a bittersweet conclusion; for newcomers, it's a compelling, albeit flawed, thriller. It's a solid 7 out of 10.