
Dexter and Complex TV
ENG 4815
Ashley Tressel
Finally, Mittell argues that complex TV demands a level of engagement. Dexter does not simply serve as a “realistic storyworld into which you might escape”; it demands the audience’s attention and requires a close eye for detail (2006, p. 38). Many key plot points are introduced first as a small glimpse of an object or a seemingly off-hand comment, then later brought back as a major element. For example, in season eight, a glimpse of a keychain is shown, held by Hannah, Dexter’s serial killer girlfriend. Later, Dexter’s sister, Deb, spots the keychain in Dexter’s hand, giving away the fact that he had reconnected with Hannah and had seen her that day. The keychain turned out to be a major point of conflict between Deb and Dexter. This level of engagement leads to a “collective intelligence,” in which fans depend on each other for information, interpretations, and discussions of the complex narrative (Mittell, 2006, p. 31). The Showtime website, DexterDaily.com is an example of collective intelligence. The site includes spoilers, sneak peaks, and polls, which viewers can participate in. The website is connected to a Facebook page, Dexter News Blog, which serves as a forum for fans of the show to like and comment on posts about the latest news on Dexter and the cast members.