Going into the fifth season of Dexter, I had fairly low expectations.  The way season four had ended completely broke the television series away from the books, and in a most dynamic plot twist, which made fans of the series realize that the writers had a monumental task ahead of them with season five.  Admittedly, I didn’t think that the writers would be up to the task of topping season four.

Now that I’m a few hours removed from watching the finale of season five, I must applaud the writers and the show’s cast and crew for a very enjoyable season of Dexter.  Whether or not it surpasses the greatness of the prior season is yet to be determined by me yet, but the impression I’ve been left with upon the completion of five is one of satisfaction and enjoyment.

It started off a little on the slow side, as the television rendition of the character Dexter had some necessary deconstruction, in order to evolve further.  But once he was stripped of some of his previous seasons’ tendencies, the season really began to pick up steam.  Not just Dexter developed throughout the season, but several other characters were given opportunities to flourish and grow, become interesting, and worthy of capturing the interest of viewers.  The culmination of the finale was a little predictable, but still completely overlooked by me until afterward, but it was a satisfying conclusion.

I was pleased with the performances of Robocop, and zerocool/crash override.  I can’t say so much about Julia Stiles, as she was the only cast member I balked at upon learning of her role in the season; I just have never really cared for her.  But each were integral components of the season’s story, and in the end, I’m left with a good taste in my mouth, and looking forward to a sixth season.

If I could name a favorite part of the season though, it would have to be the screenshot above; Dexter methodically beating the shit out of an abusive father, and calmly explaining every nuance and detail of pain and suffering of his purposeful blows.  Television beatdowns are a dime a dozen, but leave it to Dexter to make it cerebral, cruel, and downright awesome.