The success of Showtime's "Dexter" must come from its supporting cast. Obviously, and occasionally, the storyline becomes over-ridiculous. Dexter, a serial killer vigilante type always played brilliantly by the talented Michael C. Hall, is too lucky in the show. So often, the cliffhangers at the ends of episodes are cleanly resolved at the beginnings of the next ones. To rectify this, as well as the formulaic design of each season, a specific twist is given to the supporting cast. Last season, John Lithgow provided an eerie presence, and this season, Julia Stiles provides one of the best characters of the entire series. Stiles plays Lumen Pierce, a damaged rape victim whom Dexter connects with. Here, Dexter's vigilante work is assisted by Lumen's desire for revenge. By this point in the series, we've bought Dexter's persona, but because that is always such a problematic one, Lumen's more-sellable revenge desire coasts us through. The show still has a lot of signature moments of great writing, Jennifer Carpenter is still a likeable contrast to Dexter, C.S. Lewis continues to be a source of boneheaded comic relief, and coming out of Dexter's wife's death in season 4, there's a very good handling of material. Season 5 seems destined to pale in comparison to the great season 4. But for this to be merely from contrast is unfair. Season 5 of "Dexter" is an exploration through already traveled waters, but still fun and suspenseful.
Dexter (Season 5): ★★★1/2
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