First Episode of Dexter Rating

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Categories
  1. Tells a story which holds the audiences' attention
  2. Demonstrates camera work and editing which enhances the story
  3. Contains dialogue, narration and/or background music which enhances the story
  4. Has compelling and interesting actors
Possible Points for each category 
  • Expert: 20 points
  • Practitioner: 15 points
  • Apprentice: 10 points
  • Novice: 5 points
  • total possible points: 80
My rating (By Category Number):

1. "Dexter" does a great job of holding the audience's attention with the first episode. The first episode is usually the deciding factor on whether or not someone might continue watching a series. In this case, I'd give it an expert (20 point) rating. The plot is very intriguing as we watch the protagonist live a double life, one as a serial killer anti-hero and the other as a forensics specializer for the Miami Police Department. There will be obvious conflict between the two as he attempts to balance both and keep himself out of the police's reach.

2. The first episode demonstrates a wide variety of camera work techniques. Dexter's feelings of isolation due to his "unusual hobby" is fully shown with zoom-in, close up, shallow focus, etc. They also demonstrate his perception of things too through the use of color, lighting, focus, etc. Overall I'd give it an Practitioner rating (15 point). The only reason I do not give it an expert is because I feel like many of the same shots were used through out the episode and might feel repetitive for the audience.

3. The first episode contains numerous instances of dialogue between characters as well as inner dialogue. These instances are used as a method of characterization for the protagonist and other side characters too. Dexter is very odd and when he speaks, the audience always gets a glimpse of his weirdness and inability to fully connect with people. In this category, I'd give it an expert rating (20 points) as not only does it include dialogue, but also background music and sound effects to combine with multiple other things to emphasize the personalities of characters.

4. Lastly, the actors in the first episode are very interesting. Some are extremely dislikeable, especially Dexter's victims. However, I think this is the goal as the audience begins to somewhat agree to the idea that unconvicted criminals should not be left in society, free to do whatever they want. Dexter is the embodiment of that feeling, yet the actor shows how twisted and weird a person who takes this to the extreme really is. Because of that, I think it deserves an expert rating (20 points). 

Overall, the first episode deserves a rating of 75 points. It perfectly sets itself up for an intriguing story line with characters with depth that soon conflict with each other. The camera work aids in this, securing the audience's attention. At least for me, I will be continuing the show with high hopes.

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