Dexter: Original Sin Episode 9 Review – How the Prequel Unveils One of the Biggest Mysteries from the Original Dexter Series

WARNING: Spoilers ahead for Dexter: Original Sin episode 9.

Dramatic Showdown in Episode 9

The latest episode of Dexter: Original Sin, titled “Blood Drive, ”delivers an intense confrontation between Dexter Morgan and the primary antagonist of the series. This episode notably introduces a new threat, as fans were already buzzing from the return of Dexter’s biological brother, Brian Moser. Episode 8 set the stage for this thrilling twist by confirming Brian’s presence in the Original Sin timeline. With villains like Hector Estrada and the newly unveiled child killer, Aaron Spencer, the stakes have never been higher. Brian emerges at a crucial moment in the penultimate episode, raising numerous questions as we gear up for the season finale.

Unveiling Long-Held Secrets

This installment also unearths a long-awaited answer from the original Dexter series—specifically why Brian and Dexter were separated following the brutal murder of their mother, Laura. It becomes apparent that Brian grappled with his Dark Passenger far more intensely than Dexter, to the extent of nearly suffocating baby Deb in her crib due to her incessant crying. In a chilling turn, Deb makes her appearance at Miami Metro in this episode, crossing paths with Maria LaGuerta for the first time, a scene laden with foreboding considering the trajectory of their relationship in season 7.

How Brian Moser’s Return Enriches the Narrative

Brian Moser’s reintroduction serves as a vital link between the prequel series and the original show, crafting a narrative thread that enriches both timelines. Unless showrunner Clyde Phillips opts for a significant retcon regarding Brian’s and Dexter’s past encounters, his involvement has created a powerful addition to the Dexter: Original Sin narrative. While many fans may feel hesitant about this deep dive into previously established lore, the execution so far has been commendable.

By addressing the mystery surrounding the brothers’ separation, this prequel does exactly what it was designed to achieve: it fills crucial gaps in Dexter’s backstory while presenting significant moral dilemmas faced by Harry, particularly the question of why he didn’t arrest Brian when he had the opportunity.

The Unfolding Conflict with Aaron Spencer

As episode 9 concludes, Dexter sets a precarious trap for Aaron Spencer, a figure who has notably eluded Dexter’s infamous kill table. This tactic might seem out of character for Dexter and raises eyebrows regarding his adherence to Harry’s Code, specifically, the principle of avoiding capture. Nevertheless, Dexter seems to maintain control as he follows Spencer, who leaves a trail of clues, including severed fingers and photographs of his young victims.

Following this twist, it’s likely that Spencer will lead Dexter to Nicky, adding a new layer to Dexter’s vigilantism. Yet, with all the evidence at hand, one has to wonder if Harry will step in, compelling Dexter to confront Spencer rather than apprehend him. The possibility that Spencer will meet his fate during the season finale looms large, but many questions still surround his motivations—particularly concerning his relationship with Judge Powell’s son and the kidnapping of Nicky.

Unanswered Questions Surrounding Aaron Spencer

Despite a gripping villain reveal, Aaron Spencer’s character remains somewhat enigmatic. His motivations and tragic backstory haven’t been fully explored or elucidated. For instance, why did he provide both victims with the same boxed lunch? Knowing that Nicky is not clearly established as his biological child adds another layer of complexity to the narrative.

Spencer reveals his emotional turmoil regarding his ex-wife Becca and her long-term affair with a man named Nelson, yet his reasoning remains murky. His decisions, fraught with emotional distress, prompt deeper questions regarding his character. After the chilling admission to kidnapping Nicky, it’s clear that original villainy takes many forms, complicating the depiction of Spencer from a standard antagonist to a deeply flawed human being.

While the premise that a significant life event can turn an ordinary person into a killer is intriguing, the development calls for further exposition to elevate Spencer from a mere plot device to a compelling villain in the Dexter franchise.

Mark your calendars: the season finale of Dexter: Original Sin will premiere on February 14 on Paramount+ with Showtime.

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