Directed by: Michael Cuesta, Marcos Siega, Keith Gordon, and more
Starring: Michael C. Hall, Erik King, Jennifer Carpenter, Julie Benz
Are you jonesing for more of the charismatic killer Dexter Morgan? Paramount Home Video recently released Dexter: The Second Season on DVD and I gave it a spin.
The Series
If you didn’t see the first season of Dexter, I will give a quick catch up. Dexter Morgan (Michael C. Hall) is seemingly a normal man. Dexter works for the Miami Metro Police Department as a blood spatter analyst. However, there is a dark side to Dexter, a very dark side. Dexter is a killer. In season one, we learn when his father learned of his murderous tendencies in his younger days, he helped him channel is urges into only killing those that deserved it, people who have slipped through the cracks of the legal system or otherwise are walking away from the crimes they have committed. A lot of season one involves Dexter trying to solve the case of the Ice Truck Killer. I am not giving a lot of detail because Season One is definitely worth checking out, so I don’t want to spoil it for you.
Okay, onto Season Two. Season Two begins with Dexter and his sister Deb (Jennifer Carpenter) recovering from their encounters with the Ice Truck Killer. Sergeant Doakes (Erik King) still suspects that there is something more to Dexter than your average police department worker and he is as determined as ever to find out Dexter’s secret. Dexter is still dating Rita (Julie Benz). But, what began as merely a way to appear “normal” to his friends and co-workers, the otherwise cold and calculating Dexter has developed some real feelings for Rita and her two kids.
In fact, the development of “real” feelings for his sister, girlfriend and others brings Dexter much emotional turmoil in Season Two. In the past, he had people surrounding him in order to appear normal and better hide his terrible, dark and murderous side. Could Dexter be changing? And how can he fulfill his murderous urges and manage having real emotions come into play?
But, Dexter has other problems to deal with this season. One of his most secure dumping grounds has been discovered. And now the police are looking for the “Bay Harbor Butcher” after discovering Dexter’s dumping ground for various severed limbs.
Is Dexter going to be able to continue his double life?
Dexter: The Second Season is just as good as the first season. The characters continue to develop nicely, some great plot twists keep everything interesting and the introduction of a new character, Lilah, is just right to keep things feeling fresh.
The performances by all continue to impress. Michael C. Hall proves that his great performance in Six Feet Under wasn’t just thanks to Alan Ball: this guy has real chops. He is the key to the success of this show.
So, if you haven’t checked this out, definitely pick it up. And if you don’t have the first season, treat yourself to both and hibernate as you devour both seasons.
7.5/10
The Video
Dexter: The Second Season is presented in anamorphic widescreen. The series looks great with vibrant colors and not one instance of grain or artifacts
9/10
The Audio
Dexter: The Second Season is presented in DTS 5.1. The dialogue is crystal clear and mixed well. The surround usage is almost non existent but what do you expect from a TV show on DVD?
8/10
The Packaging and Bonus Features
Dexter: The Second Season is presented in slim amaray cases enclosed in a cardboard slipcover with a delightfully macabre picture of Dexter on the cover.
As for bonuses, not much is offered here. There is a podcast with Michael C. Hall and an interview. There are two episodes each of other Showtime shows: The Tudors, The Brotherhood and Californication. There is supposed to be a preview of Season Three, but when this is selected, text appears saying that the preview is on the Brotherhood DVD release.
So, not the greatest in terms of bonus features, but still a great macabre show to enjoy on those dark evenings at home.
3/10
Overall (Not an Average) 7.5/10
The Series 7.5/10
The Video 9/10
The Audio 8/10
The Packaging and Bonus Features 3/10
Overall (Not an Average) 7.5/10