Every notorious serial killer has to start their journey somewhere, and the upcoming series Dexter: Original Sin takes us back to the origins of America’s most famous fictional psychopath. This prequel unfolds fifteen years before the original SHOWTIME series, Dexter, chronicling the character’s initial kills and his ability to blend in amidst the Miami Police Department. The role of Dexter is taken on by Patrick Gibson, while Michael C. Hall returns not only to narrate but also make a special appearance in the pilot, setting the stage for his anticipated role in the upcoming series, Dexter: Resurrection.
Dexter: Original Sin introduces a range of new characters, yet keeps a thread of familiarity with the return of beloved characters from the original series. Notably, James Martinez and Alex Shimizu assume the roles of Angel Batista and Vince Masuka, previously portrayed by David Zayas and C.S. Lee, respectively.
In an exclusive interview with ScreenRant, Martinez and Shimizu delve into their experiences playing younger versions of these iconic roles and the vibrant Miami setting of 1991. They touch on topics ranging from salsa dancing and Batista’s signature style to Shimizu’s excitement in portraying a “Slacker Asian.”
Alex Shimizu on Portraying a Young Vince Masuka in Dexter: Original Sin
“He is a good guy at heart despite all his crazy antics and everything”
ScreenRant: To start off, Alex, we see a Masuka who seems even more immature than the one we know.
Alex Shimizu: Impossible, right? Yeah.
Could you elaborate on stepping into this different iteration of the character while avoiding the typical comments about honoring the past?
Alex Shimizu: That’s humorous.
James Martinez: How did you guess? (Laughs)
Alex Shimizu: Yes, that’s precisely the answer…
This isn’t your first experience in acting.
Alex Shimizu: Right! It was enjoyable, especially as I wasn’t very familiar with the show when I auditioned. I binge-watched the entire series over a weekend, compiling around 300 clips of C.S. Lee’s portrayal of Masuka. It was all about capturing the essence of the character while infusing my own interpretation. Playing someone so wild, yet fundamentally a good guy at heart, was a different experience. This role also allowed me to portray a “Slacker Asian,”a character type that is rarely represented on television. It was incredibly enjoyable.
James Martinez on His Version of Angel Batista in Dexter: Original Sin
“Angel is one of those guys who’s just, he is who he is. And what you see is what you get.”
James, how do you feel about the fact that Angel has retained his style for 30 years?
James Martinez: I have friends who just can’t seem to grow up and change their look from the 90s.
Alex Shimizu: But it works!
James Martinez: Exactly! Angel is genuinely himself. His style works for him! He carries it confidently, hitting the clubs to dance. The ladies appreciate his vibes. He embodies the philosophy, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
It is indeed a versatile outfit—suitable for clubs, work, and even funerals.
James Martinez: Absolutely, he makes quite an entrance!
Considering the series is set in 1991, were you excited about the idea of a period piece, or would you have preferred an earlier era with Miami Vice-style outfits?
James Martinez: (Laughs) No, this setting is just right! The 90s style is making a comeback. I’d happily take some outfits home if I could. The music and culture of 90s Miami is always vibrant and captivating on screen. While the character wears similar clothing, his journey transforms him substantially. The show focuses on the character development and the twists that lead to their future destinies, including flashbacks that delve right into Harry Morgan’s early days, which fans have long awaited.
The Cast of Dexter: Original Sin Discusses Miami
“It’s nice to know there’s people in the writer’s room who actually know the culture, especially the Cuban culture.”
What can you tell us about Miami and the experience of filming on location?
James Martinez: We filmed partially in Miami, which was really exciting.
Alex Shimizu: I was fortunate with the weather during the first week of shoots, and even had a chance encounter with writer Nick Zayas at a diner. After a delightful chat, he took me out salsa dancing that evening, giving me a genuine taste of Miami’s culture. That was the perfect introduction to the world of Dexter.
James Martinez: It’s important to note the writers’ knowledge of the city and its vibrant Cuban culture. Even though we filmed some segments in L.A., the set often felt like Miami, making us forget we weren’t in the actual city.
James, I’ve seen a clip where you teach Dexter to salsa dance. Are you proficient in salsa yourself?
James Martinez: Yes, indeed! Salsa has strong roots in Colombian culture, similar to Cuban and Puerto Rican influences. I came prepared to teach Dexter a few moves. Patrick even asked for tips off-set, which was fun. It was challenging to teach salsa; it can be a bit frustrating! But I’m thrilled with how that scene turned out, as it marks the beginnings of Angel and Dexter’s bond.
Insights on Dexter: Original Sin Season 1
Set against the backdrop of 1991 Miami, Dexter: Original Sin showcases Dexter (Patrick Gibson) as he evolves from a student into a calculating serial killer seeking revenge. As his murderous impulses intensify, Dexter must navigate his darker instincts. Guided by his father Harry (Christian Slater), he adopts a moral Code aimed at targeting individuals who deserve to be eliminated from society—an endeavor complicated by his new forensic internship at the Miami Metro Police Department.
Watch the trailer here
Watch the trailer here
- Clyde Phillips
- Christina Milian & Reno Wilson
The premiere episode of Dexter: Original Sin is currently available for streaming on Paramount+ with Showtime, with new episodes releasing every Friday.
Source: Screen Rant Plus
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