Dexter: Hitchcock

I love Netflix for many reasons and being able to watch 'Dexter' on instant is one of them. 'Dexter' is a show about a likable serial killer, Dexter Morgan, who works as a forensics blood-splatter analyst for the Miami Metro Police Department. Dexter isn't like other serial killers. He lives by a code that was instilled in him by his foster father, Harry; he must only kill those who are murderers and he must portray himself as a 'normal' human being. By living by this code, Dexter has been able to live his double life harmoniously without his co-workers, family or friends ever being overly suspicious of his bloodthirsty nature.

Dexter reminds me of a Hitchcock character because of his double life/split personality. One common Hitchcock motif is 'doubles/the doppelganger.' Some examples of doubles/the doppelganger in Hitchcock films include: Norman Bates and 'Mother' (Psycho), Judy Barton and Madeleine Elster (Vertigo), and Charlie and Uncle Charlie (Shadow of a Doubt).

Norman Bates represents the motif because he is both the shy and innocent hotel owner, as well as the insane and murderous Mother. 

Judy Barton also represents the motif because she pretends to be Madeleine Elster, the wife of Gavin Elster's, in order to allow him to get away with murder, so that she can be with him. After the murder is complete, Judy goes back to being her true self, not the impostor Madeleine. However, she ends up allowing herself to be transformed back into her Madeleine alter ego by Scottie after she falls in love with him.

Charlie and Uncle Charlie both represent the motif. The two have a lot in common and seem to be connected in their thoughts. Once Charlie realizes that her Uncle Charlie is the Merry Widow Murderer, she is distraught and calls him out on it. Uncle Charlie becomes angry with her and both end up trying to murder each other.

If you're a fan of Hitchcock, thrillers, or suspense in general, then you should definitely check out 'Dexter.' It's addicting, so make sure you don't stay up too late watching it!