WARNING: MAJOR SPOILERS ahead for Dexter: Resurrection episode 4.
Dexter: Resurrection episode 4, titled “Call Me Red,” delivers the thrilling moment fans have eagerly anticipated, as Dexter Morgan finds himself attending an exclusive serial killer dinner party hosted by the enigmatic Peter Dinklage, who plays Leon Prater. This episode introduces a captivating ensemble of guest stars, including Neil Patrick Harris, Krysten Ritter, Eric Stonestreet, and David Dastmalchian, collectively bringing forth one of the most memorable episodes in Dexter history.
Following his first kill in New York City during episode 3 of Resurrection, Dexter adopts the persona of the “Dark Passenger” rideshare killer, Ronald Schmidt, to secure a coveted spot at Prater’s dinner table. Amidst the ambiance of this killer soirée, he unexpectedly forges a connection with Ritter’s Lady Vengeance, who intriguingly shares a parallel vigilantism philosophy, especially after they explore Prater’s clandestine serial killer museum together.
Leon Prater’s Serial Killer Collection Evokes Nostalgia in Dexter Fans
Experiencing Dexter’s Nostalgic Reunion with His Blood Slides
During Dexter’s exploration of Prater’s eerie murder shrine in Resurrection episode 4, he encounters his cherished blood slide box, which holds significant sentimental value as it contains his past trophies from his dark exploits. This nostalgic moment sets the stage for one of the most iconic sequences in Dexter franchise history, where the infamous Bay Harbor Butcher finds himself unable to resist the urge to run his fingers across the glass, only to be cautioned by Prater not to touch it.
Prater’s chilling collection serves not only as a nostalgic reflection of the past, featuring notorious killers like Arthur Mitchell’s Trinity Killer, but also masterfully introduces new characters such as Rapunzel and The Tattoo Collector.
Among the astounding artifacts, Prater has even preserved the very table where Brian Moser, known as the Ice Truck Killer and Dexter’s biological brother, met his demise in season 1. Prater’s collection nostalgically celebrates the series’ legacy while seamlessly introducing new killers like Rapunzel and The Tattoo Collector, portrayed by Stonestreet and Harris, respectively, enriching the narrative tapestry.
Ritter’s character, Mia, also referred to as Lady Vengeance, presents an intriguing dynamic for Dexter, as she mirrors his own motivations. She targets sexual predators, akin to the one who Harrison eliminated in the Dexter: Resurrection premiere. The parallels between Mia and Harrison’s choice of targets suggest a deeper connection that is likely no mere coincidence. While he may lack a strict code, Harrison—similar to Mia and his father—has engaged in killings for a perceived societal good.
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Dexter’s life undergoes a dramatic transformation following the dinner party, as he navigates the complexities of being recognized as Red while concealing his true identity in a gathering of fellow killers. The irony of finally feeling acknowledged and validated while maintaining his hidden self in such a volatile environment creates a riveting tension. It remains to be seen if Dexter will muster the courage to reveal his authentic self to his fellow attendees at this intriguing dinner.
Even after Dexter eliminates Lowell, otherwise known as the Tattoo Collector, at the climax of Resurrection episode 4, he grapples with the internal conflict of adhering to Harry’s code while also recognizing the humanity in those who share his dark tendencies. The chemistry between him and Mia is palpable, suggesting that she could evolve into a modern counterpart of the infamous Lila from season 2.
Episode 4 of Dexter: Resurrection Masterfully Blends Tension, Humor, and Music
Throughout episode 4 of Dexter: Resurrection, Dexter showcases his trademark dark humor, reminiscent of the original series’ sardonic wit. His inner monologue humorously refers to Rapunzel as “the ponytail guy,” and he cheekily expresses dissatisfaction with Red’s vegan dinner selection, only to indulge in two chili dogs right after the gathering.
While I found some of the music choices in previous Dexter series, particularly in Original Sin, to be somewhat overpowering or tonally inconsistent, the soundtracks featured in Dexter: Resurrection strike an excellent balance. They enhance the storytelling, particularly highlighted by “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees, which perfectly underscores Detective Wallace’s transition into investigative mode.
If Dexter: Resurrection maintains the quality of episode 4, it is poised to become one of the greatest seasons in the entire franchise.
Angel’s character development sharpens significantly following his interactions with Quinn and Masuka in episode 3, as he relinquishes his Miami Metro badge to pursue Dexter—and Harrison—more aggressively. This storyline is a perfect setup for him to collaborate with Wallace and Olivia, establishing a link between Harrison and Dexter that is likely to unfold in future episodes.
Although Harrison seemed to be developing a romantic relationship with Elsa, that narrative took an unexpected downturn, leaving him more time to reconcile with Dexter after nearly turning himself in to the authorities. Dexter’s timely intervention to reveal critical truths to Harrison culminates in an already exceptional episode reaching a thrilling climax.
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Should Dexter: Resurrection continue to maintain the outstanding quality established in episode 4, it is destined to be recognized as one of the greatest seasons in the history of the franchise. With Dexter already racking up two significant kills while Angel intensifies his pursuit of both him and Harrison, the introduction of Mia adds an exciting dimension that could turn her into a pivotal ally in Dexter: Resurrection.
Dexter: Resurrection
10/10
- Release Date
- July 13, 2025
- Network
- Paramount+ with Showtime
- Directors
- Marcos Siega
- Writers
- Scott Buck
- Dexter’s attendance at the serial killer dinner party is a thrilling twist
- Leon Prater’s haunting serial killer museum offers chilling nostalgia
- Dexter’s humor shines brightly throughout the episode
- The ensemble cast delivers exceptional performances
- The emotional reunion between Dexter and Harrison concludes the episode powerfully
