Horror transformed into art. Dexter, artist, analyst and aesthete

Abstract

The aim of this research is focused on showing how, in spite of being a serial killer, the main character of TV serial Dexter is pictured with a very completed artistic personality that comprises an artist, an analyst and an aesthete. In order to confirm this thesis, this research is focused on the analysis of the main elements of visual style of the pilot episode: artistic treatment of lighting, camera design and colour, elements from the set atrezzo and wardrobe, and the character dialogues expressed in the script. The main results obtained show that, in Dexter, style supports this triple personality of the main character that mixes a talented artist capable of create his own artistic work; with the ability of analysing and transform horror scenes of mediocre artists in art works, and with a high sensibility to appreciate and be moved by other genius artists. This way of portraying this character as a (killer) artist contributes to support the thesis of the fascination of the American people with serial killers.