Exactly - all 8 seasons are not consistently the same amazing quality but when it was really cooking - as you say the first 4 seasons - it was ridiculously entertaining, gripping and a hell of a lot of fun.
I think that's what people don't often get - this show isn't tying to be The Sopranos or some Nordic Noir.. .it was a fun show that had some excellent episodes.
If you like the horror or crime genre and dark humour, then Dexter was great and Michael C Hall was incredible in the lead role.
I suppose it's like any art, it either gets to you or not, you either feel a connection or not.
It's like people who complain about and slate Banshee....what's the point?
It's a ridiculous, OTT, bonkers show that is just pure fun and entertainment.
I think Dexter is a level or two above Banshee but the point remains - people need to remember that TV shows are mostly there to entertain.