Crocodile Rocks! Looking at Dexter’s Second Episode (102)
By Wade Wainio
Dexter and Rita (Dexter, Showtime)
Dexter’s Intimacy Problems
Given that he stalks and kills people, it’s no surprise that Dexter can be socially awkward. In fact, he tends to struggle with love and sex. His love interest, Rita (Julie Benz) has similar intimacy issues, and they come to light in Crocodile. Fortunately for Dexter, he can come off as a nice guy for accepting that she’s not ready. It’s yet another way he can put up a normal, good guy front to hide his so-called “dark passenger.”
Still, it’s a glimpse into the various ways people can be damaged, and the complex nature of love and relationships. From Dexter’s unique perspective, he may be torn between (a) staving off sex to appear sensitive and normal, and (b) appearing to wanting sex to seem like an average, stereotypical male. Either way, it’s apparent that Dexter’ killing isn’t primarily motivated by sexual desire. In fact, it may be that his adoptive father uniquely gave him license — feelings of justification — for what he does, by assigning a moral code to his behavior.
In fact, his very reason for being with Rita has something to do with this code. Harry Morgan (James Remar) regularly coached the young Dex to fit in, look normal and not be too detectable. This is partly why, throughout the series, Dexter finds it uniquely important to resolve relationship issues. So, in a way, his deviant, murderous behavior is part of what makes him a good life partner. So yes, this show is weird.
Back to the Ice Truck Shenanigans
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A few interesting things happen in Crocodile. For one thing, Debra is actually promoted to the Homicide division. This means, of course, that she can be more active in investigations, including the Ice Truck Killer case. The promotion happens just in time, too, as Debra actually locates a refrigerated truck. When the back door is opened, they find an ice block containing human fingertips! They’re not just any severed fingertips, though — these ones are multi-colored, just like the ones Dexter found in his fridge at home.
While this episode doesn’t disclose who the killer is, we definitely know he’s a playful sort. The neat thing is, his keen interest in Dexter doesn’t come off as a story gimmick, but as something plausible. It’s an established fact that some killers can recognize and respect other killers. This show doesn’t just dance around such strange topics, but tackles them head-on. Also, even though we know these people are villainous, they are depicted as being complicated villains, at least. They have personalities, humor, occasional moments of being ethical, etc. They are basically human monsters.
Next: Riding With The Dark Passenger: Looking at Dexter Episode 1
So, what are your thoughts? Is this a great episode of Dexter? Let us know in the comments!