Dexter: New Blood – Review of Episode 3

Warning! This article contains spoilers from Dexter: Original Sin Episode 3.

Episode Overview

Beloved legacy character returns in a memorable episode.
Dexter takes on a second victim, which unveils his dark passenger.
Maria LaGuerta’s introduction adds complexity, highlighting Dexter’s evolution.

On December 20, the third installment of Dexter: Original Sin debuted on Paramount+ and Showtime. This episode delivered intense moments, featuring a particularly brutal killing, new insights into Harry Morgan’s past, and sparking a potential romantic interest for the socially awkward Dexter, all while delving deeper into Debra’s teenage struggles. Fans have much to appreciate about this episode, which seems to signal a promising continuation of the season. Given its pilot’s impressive ratings, a renewal for the show might be right around the corner.

Episode Title: ‘Miami Vice’

In this episode, titled “Miami Vice,”Dexter embarks on a second killing spree, targeting the long-elusive loanshark, Tony Ferrer, who had managed to escape justice for years. The narrative trajectory illustrates Dexter honing his dark passenger under Harry’s stringent moral code. Additionally, the episode welcomes a fan-favorite legacy character back into the fold, providing a compelling context that enhances the original Dexter series.

A Legacy Character Makes a Triumphant Return

Dexter: Original Sin Episode 1
Starring	Patrick Gibson, Christian Slater, Molly Brown, James Martinez, Christina Milian, Alex Shimizu, Reno Wilson, Patrick Dempsey, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Raquel Justice, and the voice of Michael C. Hall
Episode Title	Miami Vice
Directed By	Monica Raymond

The introduction of Maria LaGuerta to the Dexter prequel series was strategically timed, revealing her character in a way that enriches the narrative. Right from her entrance, LaGuerta engages with her new environment, stirring up friction with Aaron Spencer (portrayed by Patrick Dempsey) while forging an unexpected alliance with Harry Morgan. This dynamic highlights a more compassionate side of Dexter’s adoptive father. The 70s flashbacks depicting the sting operation and Harry’s relationship with Laura Moser are executed beautifully, enhancing the main narrative without overshadowing it.

This episode serves as a poignant reminder that Dexter is still a work in progress, making his character arc more intriguing. His youthfulness and inexperience are on display, especially when he finds himself in an unexpected confrontation with a surprising and loquacious witness. An added delight for fans is an American Psycho Easter egg and a humorous interaction with Masuka, who slyly offers Dexter a fake ID—at a price. This hints at a darker side to Dexter’s quirky lab colleague, suggesting future plot developments.

A Classic Dexter Episode That Excels

The narrative of Dexter’s very first kill provides a critical starting point for his origin story, establishing the framework for character development. This third episode is a nostalgic homage to the classic Dexter we know and love, combining elements of suspense and dark humor. Dexter’s second killing is portrayed as both reckless and thrilling. The lead-up to the event creates tension, and its execution blends innovation with familiar tropes, as Dexter repeatedly encounters obstacles that heighten the stakes.

Sofia, Dexter’s emerging love interest, plays a significant role in this episode, pushing Dexter into a predicament triggered by his need for trophies—a clear nod to the eventual revelation of the blood slides. Michael C. Hall’s narration shines through with witty, dark humor reminiscent of earlier seasons, recapping the chaos surrounding his second kill. This episode maintains a balance, avoiding excessive fan service while gradually clarifying the overarching plot. Overall, “Miami Vice”stands out as the strongest episode in the series thus far, setting high expectations for the remainder of the season.

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