‘American Psycho’ Reference Highlighted in ‘Dexter: Original Sin’

As an avid admirer of American Psycho, I find myself with strong opinions regarding its audience. However, the recent premiere of Dexter: Original Sin provided an intriguing homage to the original source material that caught my attention.

The inaugural episode features a memorable scene where Dexter Morgan, portrayed by Patrick Gibson, is directed to smile for his graduation photograph. Initially, he appears despondent, but when the photographer insists, his mind drifts to American Psycho. Given the time frame of the narrative, it becomes evident that Dexter’s thoughts are aligned with Bret Easton Ellis’ novel.

From my perspective, a man’s fondness for the book is a significant warning sign. The fact that a serial killer like Dexter thinks of it to uplift his spirits adds a comical twist. It’s worth noting, though, that Dexter Morgan can appreciate American Psycho – after all, he rights the wrongs by taking down nefarious individuals, unlike certain real-life figures who idolize Patrick Bateman.

Is it peculiar that Dexter’s admiration for Patrick Bateman feels less alarming than that of a real individual? Perhaps it’s my way of rationalizing that Dexter poses no threat to me, which leads to a pleasurable surprise in the pilot episode. Not everyone may catch this reference on a first viewing, as it requires familiarity with the book’s cover, something I am admittedly quite passionate about.

It’s possible that some straight men might be displeased with my interpretation of American Psycho, but I stand by my assertion. The notion of any man enamored with Patrick Bateman is unsettling, while there are certainly acceptable aspects of the narrative for them to engage with.

A Narrative Beyond Straight Men

American Psycho operates as a satire, offering profound insights into various subjects. It critiques the privileges afforded to affluent, cisgender, white males, and delves into mental health while highlighting society’s stigma surrounding seeking assistance. The character of Patrick Bateman personifies the deadly privileges linked to his identity.

I genuinely believe that a straight white male cannot appreciate Patrick Bateman without grappling with these deeper implications. To me, Dexter Morgan’s fascination with him is a perfect narrative twist that adds depth to both characters.

The next time someone expresses their fondness for Patrick Bateman, consider inquiring about their thoughts on Dexter Morgan. Alternatively, it might be wise to make a swift exit, depending on the situation. If Dexter can find solace in American Psycho, perhaps it can prompt some introspection for those who admire Bateman.

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