Dexter: Original Sin
Dexter: Original Sin
A young Dexter Morgan transitions into an avenging serial killer.
Hakihiko reviewedSeptember 24, 2025
A Strong Prequel
"Dexter: Original Sin" is a commendable entry into the Dexter franchise-one that balances nostalgia with fresh elements in a way that's often engaging, even if it isn't consistently sharp.
The biggest win here is the casting. Patrick Gibson as young Dexter captures the awkwardness and inner turmoil well, evoking just enough of Michael C. Hall's original without feeling like a mere imitation. Christian Slater as Harry adds weight to Dexter's formative years, and the younger versions of characters like Deb, Batista, and Laguerta are well chosen and frequently convincing.
The tone is one of the series' stronger assets. While "Original Sin" doesn't reinvent the franchise, it recalls enough of the original's dark humor, tension, and moral complexity to satisfy longtime fans. The show does a good job of exploring Dexter's early impulses and the uneasy mentorship with Harry. It's clear there's effort put in to make this more than just an origin story.
That said, there are flaws. The pacing can be uneven-some episodes feel packed with meaningful character moments, whereas others drag or over-rely on flashbacks or exposition. Also, because it's a prequel, there's less tension in certain story arcs: we know where Dexter ends up, which limits surprises.
Overall, "Dexter: Original Sin" is a strong prequel-good performances, enjoyable tone, and plenty of moments that bring back what made Dexter memorable. It doesn't quite match the high bar of the original's early seasons, but it delivers more hits than misses.