‘Homeland’ season 2 and ‘Dexter’ season 7: Why we’re thankful
Every Thanksgiving, there are always entertainment writers out there hoping to spin all of television programs with lists why we are grateful for them. But at the end of the day, we really have to be honest here: this has not been the best fall for broadcast TV. Many new shows that were of high quality (“Last Resort,” “Ben and Kate”) are flopping in the ratings, whereas some of the higher-rated new shows (“Revolution,” “Go On”) have disappointed after decent pilots.
Therefore, we want to give some recognition on this fine day to a premium cable network that really needs to be commended here for recognizing flaws and concerns, and being able to keep people talking about their shows even after they are over: Showtime. Following a controversial (but in a way brilliant) end to “Weeds” that did not give in to desperate demands to put Nancy and Andy together, they have continued this fall to not only revive a one-time Emmy favorite, but also continue to keep the reigning Outstanding Drama Series winner strong.
“Dexter” – Usually when a show is in season 7, you spend most of the time complaining about how stale and tired it feels. However, “Dexter” this time around has been a revelation. The tension between Michael C. Hall an Jennifer Carpenter’s characters has been brilliant now that she knows his secret, and even the guest stars for the season (Ray Stevenson and Yvonne Strahovski) have slowly built into being fascinating characters that show off new sides to the people we already know. Thank you, Showtime, for not only upping the show’s game this year, but also not forgetting about the past courtesy of the Bay Harbor Butcher story, referencing Lumen (who we argue is still the love of Dexter’s life more so than even Hannah or Rita), and bringing back Astor and Cody.
“Homeland” – Where there have been some elements to this season that are polarizing (Brody and Carrie hooking up again), you have to love a show willing to take so many risks when it didn’t have to. It would have been so easy for the writers to just continue to keep things ambiguous here concerning Brody’s status, but inside they blew it out in the open. Now, this season truly feels like a thrill ride of constant twists and turns, and even the Dana storyline feels significant in its own way given how it impacts Brody’s chances of being Vice-President.
What show are you the most thankful for this year? We want to hear some of your picks below!