Dexter: Season 8, Episode 1 “A Beautiful Day” (B+)
I always get excited about the premiere of this show, a series that is now entering its eighth season and remains compelling due to its extraordinary commitment to its characters and season-long arcs digging deep into their psyches and interpersonal relationships. Most significant in this hour were three things: Dexter has lost control of his anger, lashing out at a random driver, Harrison, and Deb’s mark-slash-boyfriend (that final encounter proving deadly), Deb has gone completely off the wagon in her new work gig, and Charlotte Rampling’s character, Dr. Evelyn Vogel, knows infinitely more about Dexter than he could possibly have imagined, telling him that he couldn’t kill her because she doesn’t fit Harry’s code. That last revelation is monumental, and it should make for a fantastically interesting swan song that comes full circle to address how Dexter became the person/monster he is. Of less importance are some minor developments related to our minor characters, whose portrayers, Geoff Pierson and Aimee Garcia, have now become credited series regulars. Pierson’s Matthews looks like he’ll be a frequent face in the office with Laguerta gone, and her death has propelled Batista back into the police force. Garcia, fresh off CBS’ cancelled “Vegas,” is going to be spotlighted more prominently this season as Dexter’s babysitter Jamie if this first installment is any indication. As if Louis wasn’t a sinister enough choice, for which she can be easily forgiven, Quinn is hardly a step up. I’m not sure if Dexter or Batista is going to find out first, but they’re both going to be quite upset. This is sure to be an enthralling final year, and I’m eager to see how it all ends.
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