Domestic Dispute

I express my respect and admiration for Michael C. Hall on a regular basis, and also for the hit show Dexter he brings to dreary, intelligent and visceral life. On the same token, I still maintain dismay for the third season, and for the inevitable story arch of making him a loving father and husband...until I saw the season four premiere on Sunday, I wasn't entirely sure why. Jumping of sharks is bad for any show, let alone one I'm so moved by.

The ever inspiredJohn Lithgow as the Trinity Killer is a welcome addition to the cast (the grizzly doing away with he brings is an almost ironic juxtaposition to Dex's befuddlement), the dialogue is still fleshed out and funny. Aside from the sub-plot pairing Detective Batista and Lieutenant Laguerta romantically (not necessary and out of left field), the initial episode was closer to the heart and soul the first two seasons had. I was relieved and intrigued. But still....

Anyone who feels at odds with the world simply by the way they view of it, can relate to Dexter, even as he snuffs out human beings, manipulates and lies. But that's the beauty of the premise and the execution of the show. Seeing humanity where none should be, to further the most inhumane exploits. Obviously there's less and less daily ritual/personal identity with a family in tow, and that's probably the hardest part of the transition (on the show and in life), the compromise. It's a big one for a serial killer in particular. Their routines and structure keep them off death row and in their own private regime of unthinkable. It's a bit painful to watch the rogue jaguar of dark justice stumble and falter like an alley cat.

After musing a bit I realized the heart of my grievance: the lone-wolf vicariousness has been tampered with. A character's life I eagerly anticipate identifying with and observing, evolves into more familiar and familial waters, yet a fraction of me still wishes for his former days of solitary strength, as I do for myself, I 'spose. As he adjusts to the practice and daily pressure of the most common "American Dream", the essence and fortitude of his dark passenger is compromised. Too close to home, I guess. And considering the man in question, that can be a scary thing, ya dig?



I won't turn my back on his new path, nor will I belittle the writers prerogative to take him to vulnerable places. From the season teaser that followed episode one, it looks like a nail biter despite any softer side. High five on that.



The double life he leads can still thrive, after adjustment. Both are messy, high stress and lonely, any way you slice it. If anyone can do it Dexter can, and I'll lend my viewership in support.


Oh, and more Masuka, please.