Dexter

:

Season 4
  • Network: SHOWTIME
  • Series Premiere Date: Oct 1, 2006
Season #: 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
9.0

Universal acclaim- based on 701 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 670 out of 701
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 701
  3. Negative: 22 out of 701
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  1. JimP
    Nov 11, 2009
    8
    John Lithgow is suitably creepy as the Trinity Killer and Jennifer Carpenter's character (as Dexter's sister) is equally irritating (as usual). I'm a big Keith Carradine fan, so that doesn't hurt either. So far, so good.
  2. BobT
    Oct 26, 2009
    8
    As good as the first two seasons! Season 3 was still good, but was kind of a letdown after the first two - now it's clear it was setting up a lot for the next three seasons, especially Dexter's marriage and family. John Lithgow is excellent...it's a tribute to both his acting and the writing (as sharp and tight as ever) that many of his scenes have only three or four lines As good as the first two seasons! Season 3 was still good, but was kind of a letdown after the first two - now it's clear it was setting up a lot for the next three seasons, especially Dexter's marriage and family. John Lithgow is excellent...it's a tribute to both his acting and the writing (as sharp and tight as ever) that many of his scenes have only three or four lines of dialogue, but resonate deeply and give you the creeps (especially a scene where Lithgow picks a fight behind a bar). My only complaint is that Deb's boyfriend Anton continues to get less and less interesting (their subplot was the weakest thing in season 3) and Rita seems relegated to the old "ball and chain" role this season as Dexter's wife. But things may get more interesting.… Expand
  3. Crashman
    Apr 8, 2014
    7
    I love this show but I feel like the writers are getting lazy (as of season 4 anyway). The show is becoming too formulaic with frequently re-used plot devices. I have a lot more seasons to get caught up on but I can't help but thinking this is another show that should have only been a couple seasons. Is it really so common for Miami cops to sleep with murderers? Who on this show hasn't?
  4. Jord68
    Sep 28, 2010
    10
    Its such a great show, i'm always on the edge of my seat. every episode feels like a roller coaster, and i've never felt that with any other show before. Micheal C. Hall deserves every award he gets for this show and more, it is the best acting i've seen in a long time.
  5. BryanT
    Nov 30, 2009
    10
    For anyone who has seen the ninth and tenth episode of this season knows its a 10 rating.
  6. DanielL
    Nov 14, 2009
    10
    Although it is impossible to achieve the originality of season 1, this season is back on par with season 1. Season 3 slipped a bit but season 4 is just as intense and compelling as ever.
  7. TimH.
    Dec 15, 2009
    6
    Rampant pacing problems, boring subplots, two or three interesting episodes. The serial-killer vigilantism that endeared audiences to Dexter is almost entirely absent from this season, as are the interesting moral dilemmas that flavored seasons 1-3.
  8. jack_d
    Jun 15, 2012
    10
    It's safe to say that season four was the best season yet. I found it to have more suspense & more development in Dexter's character. John Lithgow has to be one of the creepiest serial killer to ever grace a television show. I loved every second of this season!
  9. RaulM.
    Jan 11, 2010
    10
    Best season YET. And that's saying a lot, considering Dexter has never had a bad season -- Season 3 was my least favorite, but even that was better than just about every show on television. A great show.
  10. JeffJohnson
    Oct 1, 2009
    10
    Awesomesauce.
  11. toughbrets
    Aug 31, 2010
    3
    I used to love Dexter, but I can't forgive the tedious formula they can't seem to let go of. Dexter befriends a psychopath and ends up realizing that he's got to kill him or her in every single season. While Dexter needs an entire season to figure that out, we the viewers unfortunately don't. If you can predict the end of the new season without having seen a single frame of it, it screamsI used to love Dexter, but I can't forgive the tedious formula they can't seem to let go of. Dexter befriends a psychopath and ends up realizing that he's got to kill him or her in every single season. While Dexter needs an entire season to figure that out, we the viewers unfortunately don't. If you can predict the end of the new season without having seen a single frame of it, it screams repetitiveness.… Expand
  12. andyk
    Dec 20, 2009
    10
    This season was wonderful. intriguing, disturbing, emotional, scary, all that i could have asked for. it was just amazing.
  13. JT
    Oct 3, 2009
    9
    I didn't find Season 3 to be all that interesting but if the first episode is a vision of things to come, I think I'll be enjoying Season 4 even more than the first two.
  14. ZacB
    Oct 3, 2009
    9
    Fourth Season, First episode.... jaw dropping. John Lithgow will give you nightmares. And a bit of cheek.
  15. AdamG
    Nov 30, 2009
    10
    This is one of the best seasons of Dexter ever. The problem with the metacritic review system for TV shows is that they tend to only give the reviews only for the first couple episodes and, even though this season had a strong start it just keeps getting stronger. To the point that most the negative reviews actually don't make any sense when this season is viewed as a whole.
  16. MikeB.
    Oct 17, 2009
    10
    This is one of the greatest shows I have ever seen. It goes deep so you can really get into it and it is the perfect show to just marathon the sh*t out of. I hope for many many more seasons and I just hate waiting for the episodes to air!
  17. SamE
    Dec 17, 2009
    10
    Season 4 of Dexter is at a deeper more twisted place than any other season. In my opinion best season yet. Cannot wait for season 5 which I'm sure will be even better than last.
  18. DanTheMan
    Dec 18, 2009
    7
    I agree with some critics that the show has become too predictable, but the humour of this season has been top-notch. I have been a fan since the first season, and unfortunately I won't be watching the next season based on what happened in episode 12. It was beyond disappointing.
  19. NickP
    Dec 20, 2009
    10
    I was starting to think the series was going downhill(just a little!!), but then I watched the first episode of season 4 and was hooked just like I was while watching season 1. It doesn't slow down either, by the end of the season I was begging for more Dexter!
  20. JulieD.
    Sep 28, 2009
    8
    This could be the best season yet for Dexter-bravo for bringing back Keith Carradine and to bringing on John Lithgow! Love the relationships at the office, too!
  21. AlexN.
    Sep 28, 2009
    10
    The new season is off to a great start. The casting of Lithgow is genius. There is plenty going on to set the stage for a season full of excitement in what could've been a monotonous look at a serial killer's crack at fatherhood. Top 5 show on TV.
  22. SteveW
    Dec 17, 2009
    10
    This season of Dexter starts off with a bang and the season finale will leave you breathless
  23. MattyZ
    Dec 24, 2009
    10
    It seemed at first to be completely predictable with Dexter going to kill the Trinity killer with just a few season lengthening twists thrown in (though the season was fantastic to begin with) but with the final episode my heart absolutely dropped to an ending that I did not expect once so ever. Will any season finale ever top that?
  24. chaddybwoi
    Sep 22, 2010
    10
    An instant favorite for fans of serial-killer drama and plot twists.
    Micheal C. Hall is also an amazing actor in this series.This season in my opinion the best one behind Season 2.
    Simply Awesome entertainment
  25. BlackAcidDragon
    Oct 8, 2010
    10
    i really enjoyed this season with dexter contending with a mirror image of himself. Rita is by fair a cow in this one and i cant stand any moment she is in it. i think deb's character is tired and old. and dotes was replaced with a lesser character. still good through and through and still kept me coming back for more
  26. Tubie
    Nov 2, 2010
    9
    Season 4 picks up again improving from Season 3 which to me was the weakest season so far. This season we have a very interesting bad guy and a finale nobody saw coming.
  27. TheBear
    Oct 13, 2010
    7
    The weakest season so far as most of the side characters don't really enjoy any new storylines with the only saving grace really being the Trinity Killer played by John Lithgow who is show stealing this season. A few genuine shocks and surprises, Dexter still remains a top drama.
  28. Sabrinna
    Nov 4, 2010
    8
    This season of Dexter was still as brilliant as we've come to expect but with a few oversights that I feel need to be reflected in the review score. Our serial killer this season is an older man in his late 50's/early 60's yet the writers failed to take this into account in some of his murder scenes. His very first scene is with a 20 something woman in the bathroom. He's naked and unarmed,This season of Dexter was still as brilliant as we've come to expect but with a few oversights that I feel need to be reflected in the review score. Our serial killer this season is an older man in his late 50's/early 60's yet the writers failed to take this into account in some of his murder scenes. His very first scene is with a 20 something woman in the bathroom. He's naked and unarmed, she screams and is physically overpowered by him. This is unfortunately extremely unbelievable. Likelihood is, she could easily have fended him off (possibly hurting him in the process), call the police and have him arrested, there and then. End of storyline. His second victim is a woman in her 30's. He's unarmed and she's passively crying and begging. Again, she could easily have taken him down. I know I wouldn't be afraid of an unarmed old man. This victim voluntarily jumps to her death because he threatened her children. Huh? Why didn't she just kick him between the legs, whip out her mobile phone, take a photo, jump in her car and drive straight to the police station? On this point I think the writers have cast women (not in the police force) as pathetic, helpless, hapless victims. This is disappointing. In this season Rita is manipulative of Dexter's insecurities about being a good husband and father using this to make him toe the line. She's overbearing, controlling and ridiculously demanding and no-one seems to notice, not even Dexter. Our favorite serial killer, forensics splatter expert kowtowers to her daily without so much as a weak, whimper of protest. For me, this made her death at the end very welcome. Maybe season 5 will show a stronger and more independent Dexter. I'm hoping the writers made Rita unlikeable on purpose. I'm looking forward to seeing Season 5 and am hoping the writers address the roles of women outside the police force. Do they need to be perfect? No. But believable, yes.… Expand
  29. Joishm
    Dec 17, 2010
    10
    Season 3 could have concluded Dexters story as he sailed on into the sunset with a family he loves, and a dark side that's supplemented by righteousness. But such is the appreciation for reality above fantasy in the script, it keeps going, and in doing so loses none of it's momentum, gearing up for something mesmorisingly epic.

    By the end, i could confidently say i'd never watched    Season 3 could have concluded Dexters story as he sailed on into the sunset with a family he loves, and a dark side that's supplemented by righteousness. But such is the appreciation for reality above fantasy in the script, it keeps going, and in doing so loses none of it's momentum, gearing up for something mesmorisingly epic.

    By the end, i could confidently say i'd never watched anything better on the television than this delightful frightful show.    … Expand
  30. payse
    Dec 19, 2010
    10
    The best season yet of Dexter, performance of the year on TV from John Lithgow and the rest of the cast were not bad either. Amazing plot, superbly written and fantastically shot, this was in my opinion the best TV series of '09.
  31. TheQuietGamer
    Dec 28, 2015
    9
    Four seasons in and the formula shows no signs of growing stale. It doesn't brake much new ground, but the new changes to Dexter's personal and family life are just enough to keep things tense and enjoyable. Once again the greatest strength proves to be Dexter's struggle for normalcy while keeping his "dark passenger" satisfied.

    This season begins to show that this quest of his might    Four seasons in and the formula shows no signs of growing stale. It doesn't brake much new ground, but the new changes to Dexter's personal and family life are just enough to keep things tense and enjoyable. Once again the greatest strength proves to be Dexter's struggle for normalcy while keeping his "dark passenger" satisfied.

    This season begins to show that this quest of his might just be his downfall. A shocking conclusion hints at big changes being just around the horizon. Some of Dexter's secrets are brought out into the light. One particular aspect of the show I feel has been improved upon is James Remar's role as Dexter's deceased father. Dexter's use of him as a sort of screwed up moral compass, as well as his own subconscious trying to set him straight has never been more realized than it has been this season. This concept is used to give Dexter's conflicts and internal struggles the extra added oomph.

    Season 4 keeps the formula going strong. Even better is that it hints at exciting things in the future. With a new rival at his job, Debra getting closer and closer to the truth, and a big finale that could just mean the beginning of the end for what we've come to expect of Dexter, season 4 is an exciting ride.    … Expand
  32. TheChaser1985
    Apr 8, 2011
    10
    What's with these MORONS that keep saying that Dexter is the same thing over? That Dexter ALWAYS befriends a psycho and then has to kill him? That happen in ONLY two seasons. You guys need to pay attention, instead of mindlessly shouting out your dislike for a show that you can't just enjoy. This is my favorite season of Dexter. I really loved the return of a certain character and twistedWhat's with these MORONS that keep saying that Dexter is the same thing over? That Dexter ALWAYS befriends a psycho and then has to kill him? That happen in ONLY two seasons. You guys need to pay attention, instead of mindlessly shouting out your dislike for a show that you can't just enjoy. This is my favorite season of Dexter. I really loved the return of a certain character and twisted ways of a new one. But I will forever wear my tshirt in memory and always keep that certain someone in my heart! I MISS ************* I couldn't believe it. My mouth dropped wide open and I was in shock. As much as I hated the writers for doing that, I love them just as much. Very bold.… Expand
  33. tinar1
    Aug 21, 2011
    10
    I always said that season 2 was the best... indeed it is one, but now the events of season 4 makes it right to the top. It starts really well and it ends shockingly.
    Warning: Remember Dexter is not a series for everybody.
  34. Human
    Aug 20, 2011
    8
    John Lithgow does a fantastic job in this season and really helps add something to the show. The secondary character subplots get a little more annoying and unnecessary this season and while Lithgow does a good job in his role and his actual character is interesting, the show seems to be falling into a bit of a formula that loses impact each time. Still, the fourth season, while notJohn Lithgow does a fantastic job in this season and really helps add something to the show. The secondary character subplots get a little more annoying and unnecessary this season and while Lithgow does a good job in his role and his actual character is interesting, the show seems to be falling into a bit of a formula that loses impact each time. Still, the fourth season, while not reaching the high standard set by the first two season, outshines the third and makes for an enjoyable and overall well-made experience.… Expand
  35. SchroederRock
    Feb 1, 2016
    9
    John Lithgow plays the crazy/psycho guy well. He is the best villain Dexter has had to face yet, and the season carries a great pace with perhaps the best crescendo the series has ever seen. The last few episodes are huge, with the biggest season finale twist. No spoilers, but this is the best the show has been so far. Can it get better? Maybe a little, but Dexter has finally got meJohn Lithgow plays the crazy/psycho guy well. He is the best villain Dexter has had to face yet, and the season carries a great pace with perhaps the best crescendo the series has ever seen. The last few episodes are huge, with the biggest season finale twist. No spoilers, but this is the best the show has been so far. Can it get better? Maybe a little, but Dexter has finally got me hooked. I'm spending more time chaining watched episodes together than any of the previous seasons. I like where things are going.… Expand
  36. kyuba
    Dec 13, 2010
    9
    It is probably because of John Lithgow's great performance, that this season is nearly as good as season 1. I was hoping for a great antagonist and I got one, also the story was really smoothly written and gripping. This season was a pleasant surprise after the previous one in which I think the writers got a little lost.
  37. MustisTheCat
    Aug 17, 2011
    9
    Another excellent season. Mostly because of Arthur Mitchell character (outstanding performance from John Lithgow). Be warned that first 3-4 episodes are slow, maybe even boring. Nothing is happening. You would think that season should be rated lower as it is a bit uneven. Thankfully, the story becomes a strong thriller from the 5th ep. As in the 3rd season, in this one we also have someAnother excellent season. Mostly because of Arthur Mitchell character (outstanding performance from John Lithgow). Be warned that first 3-4 episodes are slow, maybe even boring. Nothing is happening. You would think that season should be rated lower as it is a bit uneven. Thankfully, the story becomes a strong thriller from the 5th ep. As in the 3rd season, in this one we also have some complicated personalities and we never really know what will happen next. It gets scary and brutal at the same time. Very strong finale with twists and endless questions.… Expand
  38. drlowdon
    Apr 2, 2013
    8
    Dexter has long since established itself as one of the best drama series on TV. This fourth season deals largely with Dexter's attempts to balance his family life, which now includes his baby son, with his need to kill. When he meets Arthur Mitchell (played brilliantly by John Lithgow) it at first seems he has found someone able to achieve exactly what he has always strived for but outwardDexter has long since established itself as one of the best drama series on TV. This fourth season deals largely with Dexter's attempts to balance his family life, which now includes his baby son, with his need to kill. When he meets Arthur Mitchell (played brilliantly by John Lithgow) it at first seems he has found someone able to achieve exactly what he has always strived for but outward appearances can often be deceiving....

    Many critics of Dexter would argue that the show has become more unrealistic as each season has progressed to the extent where it is now difficult to believe that he his secret would not have been discovered and in some ways I would agree with this.

    For me however what the show has lost (slightly) in believability it has made up for with superb character development, particularly in the case of Dexter himself. Watching his development from an almost emotionless killer, whose girlfriend and job were nothing more than a cover, into someone who gradually realises that perhaps the people in his life do mean something to him continues to make for truly fascinating viewing.    … Expand
  39. lisabv2011
    May 24, 2011
    10
    As Creepy as this season was, and how graphic.... John Lithgow Was amazing so amazing Most shocking from beginning to end... You were always on the edge of your seat. You always wondered if he was gonna get caught or not... Such great writters, and cast.... I keep loving this show. I hope it lasts 10 seasons.
  40. babaracas38
    Jun 28, 2011
    9
    John Lithgow saves this season. Just as Dexter is going far too far into the domestic toilet, and yet getting away with the most unbelievable crap in Season 3, Lithgow pulls one of the most evil performances of a career made on evil performances (and one crap "comedy" tv show) and blows everything you expected out of the water. Season 3 dragged with that awful excuse of an actor (youJohn Lithgow saves this season. Just as Dexter is going far too far into the domestic toilet, and yet getting away with the most unbelievable crap in Season 3, Lithgow pulls one of the most evil performances of a career made on evil performances (and one crap "comedy" tv show) and blows everything you expected out of the water. Season 3 dragged with that awful excuse of an actor (you know who) sharing top guest star billing, but Season 4 was fantastic.… Expand
  41. mecbirdhouse
    Jul 10, 2011
    8
    John Lithgow, as expected, delivers a phenomenal, very scary performance, and is given a very well-mapped out storyline. Almost ever episode ends on a huge reveal or event that pulls you into the story further.
  42. FakhriDean
    Nov 2, 2011
    10
    Best Season of all time, best finale of all time...I mean the writers did such an amazing job, Michel perfect as usual , the trinity killer added a lot of thrilling to the show, if you didn't watch it you're missing out
  43. Kirase
    Apr 14, 2013
    7
    Dexter Season 4 was O.K., but i really hope they come up with smarter storytelling and plot twists in next seasons. A lot of what was happening in this season felt a bit forced and stupid. But i learned that Courtney Ford got some nice boobs, thank you for that, learning by repetition, kind of proven that it works here, at some point i was willed to believe that she was not allowed to getDexter Season 4 was O.K., but i really hope they come up with smarter storytelling and plot twists in next seasons. A lot of what was happening in this season felt a bit forced and stupid. But i learned that Courtney Ford got some nice boobs, thank you for that, learning by repetition, kind of proven that it works here, at some point i was willed to believe that she was not allowed to get on screen clothed but well at least the last episode proved that was not the case. And the relationship to Rita really took a too big part of the show lately. But with dexter moving his stuff to a ship container first and than taking care of rita afterwards that problem should be completely solved Killing Astor and Cody would be bit rough, leaving them with dexter wouldnt change much, so they will probably move to ritas mom in next season. Will see...… Expand
  44. SHO1BANG
    Jan 9, 2012
    10
    The best season after the 1st one. Edge of your seat throughout the last 3-4 episodes, the relationship between Dex and Trinity is amazing, Trinity is also a very interesting, rich character, who is appaled by what he's doing. Dex also evolves, as he becomes more human, and has to find a way to deal with his family life, married, three kids, and also continue to do what he does... AmazingThe best season after the 1st one. Edge of your seat throughout the last 3-4 episodes, the relationship between Dex and Trinity is amazing, Trinity is also a very interesting, rich character, who is appaled by what he's doing. Dex also evolves, as he becomes more human, and has to find a way to deal with his family life, married, three kids, and also continue to do what he does... Amazing ending as well, shocking actually. John Lithgow and Michae C. Hall had amazing chemistry. Lundy also returns, and Deb also has a much bigger role in this season, which I liked.… Expand
  45. imthenoob
    Oct 26, 2012
    10
    There is a reason why everyone says the show is at it's peak through out season 4. It's by far my favorite season and it was perfect from start to finish. Definently makes up for the poor quality of the previous 2 seasons imo.
  46. keep_yr_bias
    Mar 13, 2012
    10
    I've been powering through the DVD's of Dexter over the past couple months, and Season 4 is the best yet in my opinion. The entire season has so much momentum, and the final 3-4 episodes are gripping to say the least. The Trinity Killer is my favorite character outside of the core cast for all the seasons. The Ice Truck Killer was integral to the entire series, but John Lithgow playsI've been powering through the DVD's of Dexter over the past couple months, and Season 4 is the best yet in my opinion. The entire season has so much momentum, and the final 3-4 episodes are gripping to say the least. The Trinity Killer is my favorite character outside of the core cast for all the seasons. The Ice Truck Killer was integral to the entire series, but John Lithgow plays the Trinity role flawlessly. He is creepy and completely unpredictable. Anybody who claims they knew what he would do next is full of s***. It was also very nice to see Keith Carradine's character (Lundee) come back too, as he is also one of my favorite characters. There's A LOT going on in this season. The final two minutes delivers a complete gut punch to the viewer too. I'm already pumped to get Season 5 going to see which direction it will go.… Expand
  47. Mr_West
    Mar 28, 2012
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Straightly Speaking, the greatest season of a t.v. show ever. It took a challenging concept and made it one of the most twisted, character centered, artistic, and beautiful series of episodes in T.V. show history. The narration was perfect. Everything added in the exact in the right place. The idea of a monster, a serial killer, trying to live a normal suburban life, seems so rediculous, and yet feels so right, since we as the audience believe we know Dexter, and know the good inside him. Unfortunately, with every chance he gets, we finally, for the first time since Season 1, see a villain who's life resembles Dexter's. But when we do, we know that his pursuit at a normal life, that seemed to covered in gold in Season 3, can only end in one way; tragedy.… Expand
  48. moonman1994
    Jul 27, 2013
    10
    Absolutely an amazing season. Arguably the best one out of all the seasons. Lithgow's performance as Trinity is horrifying and gripping at the same time. You can't take your eyes of the screen during this entire season. It is the first Dexter season that is truly shocking and horrifying at many different times. At several moments you can't help but feel a little sick or cry a little. ThisAbsolutely an amazing season. Arguably the best one out of all the seasons. Lithgow's performance as Trinity is horrifying and gripping at the same time. You can't take your eyes of the screen during this entire season. It is the first Dexter season that is truly shocking and horrifying at many different times. At several moments you can't help but feel a little sick or cry a little. This season is amazingly done. Plain and simple.… Expand
  49. hillg
    Jul 16, 2012
    10
    this is the best season of this show....the creators of the show outdid themselves with this season...i doubt they will make a season as good as this before the show is over.
  50. ironhomer
    Sep 15, 2013
    10
    After not too pleased third season. This season became for me a surprise. Perfect villain, interesting story with such a plot twists, shock ending, and great acting John Lithgow.
  51. ChazJaxx
    Oct 28, 2012
    10
    BEST SEASON SO FAR! John Lithgow is incredible as the Trinity Killer and the absolutely incredible "edge of your seat" finale, I don't know how any season could surpass this one.
  52. cameronmorewood
    Nov 9, 2012
    10
    Utterly brilliant. Lithgow's character is nearly as compelling as Dexter himself. Every subplot is juicy as hell. Dexter 4, is, truly, the best single season every aired on television. Ever.
  53. Swati
    Dec 1, 2012
    10
    I found season 4 to be as awesome as season 1. After struggling through season 3 (which I actually gave up after episode 4 for a long while), I was in no mood to subject myself to another ordeal. But just for old times' sake, I decided to give the premiere a shot. The score speaks for itself.
  54. Mrdan69
    Jun 14, 2013
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This season was brilliant, but not completely flawless. The beginning few episodes meander and plod along, only to be saved by tantalizing glimpses of the ultimate "big bad" John Lithgow as the Trinity Killer.

    The season really picks up and does not let go once Dexter realizes that Trinity is a family man (albeit with a dysfunctional family). It also serves to mirror Dexter's own hopes and fears.

    The secondary story of LaGuerta and Batista's romance did not quite work so well for me, as it's only purpose seemed to be to cause political conflict with the higher-ups at the police dept.

    But no worries, as anyone who has seen this season knows-the last 2 minutes of the final episode make up for any shortcomings this season might have had. I recall watching Dexter dispatch of Trinity in the trash bags in the ocean thinking "there's still a lot of time left here." The twist at the end of that episode left reverberations that are still being felt as the show enters its 8th and final year.    … Expand
  55. bulger_paul
    Aug 15, 2013
    9
    One of the strongest seasons in the series, season 4 places Dexter in a unique situation, for a serial killer, as his life develops a deeper connection to the people who began as mere cover ups in his deeply layered web of secrets.
    Here we are introduced to Arthur Mitchell, Dexter's most disturbed foe in the series thus far. The writing is still darkly comic, nobody is as they seem, the    One of the strongest seasons in the series, season 4 places Dexter in a unique situation, for a serial killer, as his life develops a deeper connection to the people who began as mere cover ups in his deeply layered web of secrets.
    Here we are introduced to Arthur Mitchell, Dexter's most disturbed foe in the series thus far. The writing is still darkly comic, nobody is as they seem, the season is hardly short of thrills, and it all comes down to a jaw dropping conclusion none of us could see coming.    … Expand
  56. Andremax
    Jul 31, 2016
    8
    I divide Dexter series in two eras, the 1-4 season and 5-8 season. The first part consists in psychosocial protagonist living in a regular people society and descripting him vision about this, interacring with the public of a amazing manner, like him sarcastic jokes, metaphoric and reflexives speechs - somethimes, of a incredible way, you perceive how the normal people looks like theI divide Dexter series in two eras, the 1-4 season and 5-8 season. The first part consists in psychosocial protagonist living in a regular people society and descripting him vision about this, interacring with the public of a amazing manner, like him sarcastic jokes, metaphoric and reflexives speechs - somethimes, of a incredible way, you perceive how the normal people looks like the serial killers.
    Dexter trying looks like a non-psychosocial provides very funny moments, such as your cold behavior to sad and happy moments.
    Dexter can be in a Breaking Bad's level, if you considerate the 1st to the 4th season

    (P.S.: This review refers the 1-4 season, in a general manner)    … Expand
  57. thebestreviews
    Sep 24, 2013
    10
    This is one of the greatest seasons of television ever. Why. John Lithgow as one of the best villains of all time. The Trinity Killer. This season revolves around Dexter, and Miami metro hunting him down. The plot in intense as hell and the last 4 episodes are some of the greatest ever. and this season has one of the biggest shocker in television history.
  58. Camillozzi
    Feb 21, 2014
    8
    Embora não seja tão fresco ou surpreendente como era antes a quarta temporada e forte e marcante para o destino da serie. Dexter continua a atrair telespectadores em suas tramas torcidas e a eficiente performance de Michael C. Hall.
  59. joao1198pedro
    Oct 19, 2013
    8
    the fourth season of dexter may not have been the best but she is temmporada with the best villain ever seen in the entire series, and this villain does something terrible and memorable in the last episode of this great season.
  60. chekovsgun
    May 12, 2014
    9
    I was actually considering ditching the show before i started this season. Season 2 had been alright but season 3 practically put me to sleep. But fear not! The show rediscovers itself here, returning to the top-notch level it was on back in season 1. The villian is delightfully dreadful and complex. Things start out vastly interesting, slow slightly for a couple episodes but then pickI was actually considering ditching the show before i started this season. Season 2 had been alright but season 3 practically put me to sleep. But fear not! The show rediscovers itself here, returning to the top-notch level it was on back in season 1. The villian is delightfully dreadful and complex. Things start out vastly interesting, slow slightly for a couple episodes but then pick right back up. I won't spoil anything but lets just say the 9th episode of this season is my favorite episode of Dexter, ever. That, and John Lithgow certainly deserved an Emmy for his performance (not sure if he got one). The only annoying thing was the yet-again insertion of a Bautista subplot that no one cares about. Other than that, mostly perfect season.… Expand
  61. JackKerouac
    Jun 11, 2015
    9
    Best season of Dexter, I think it's hard to argue otherwise. I might hear an argument for 2, but I think the whole Trinity Killer arc is too **** good to ignore. Yeah, Doakes was rad and everything - but Trinity? Holy **** dude! This season is so suspenseful and so intense it's sometimes hard to watch. Especially that ending.

    Best Episode: The Getaway.
    Worst Episode: Blinded by the Light.
  62. fbtimesofficial
    Sep 1, 2015
    8
    Dexter's fourth season tries too hard for the story's sake, resulting in muddled character development and a number of irritating appearances by the titular character's father. While it may not be able to compete with the first two seasons, Michael C. Hall and John Lithgow put on an unforgettable show, all leading up to an unbelievably shocking conclusion.

Awards & Rankings

23
#23 Best TV Season of 2009
17
#17 Most Discussed TV Season of 2009
29
#29 Most Shared TV Season of 2009

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
77

Generally favorable reviews - based on 14 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 14
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 14
  3. Negative: 0 out of 14
  1. Boston Globe
    Reviewed by: Matthew Gilbert
    80
    Thankfully, this season Dexter continues to play with our moral bearings, which is the show’s best quality.
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  2. Chicago Sun-Times
    Reviewed by: Paige Wiser
    100
    The series is as compulsively watchable as ever, with Dexter's marriage, stepchildren, newborn son and stifling suburban life complicating his leisure time.
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  3. Chicago Tribune
    Reviewed by: Maureen Ryan
    50
    Dexter’s life as a suburban dad feels claustrophobic, and the show has become repetitive and predictable.
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