Behind the Scenes: 1970s Dexter & Brian Actors Film Iconic Shipping Container Scene in Dexter: Original Sin

A behind-the-scenes look at the 1970s flashback in Episode 9, Blood Drive.

Dexter: Original Sin is just one episode away from concluding its first season, with the highly anticipated finale set to air on Valentine’s Day. This gripping prequel series primarily unfolds in 1991, which serves as the show’s present timeline, while also dedicating significant screen time to flashback sequences from 1972 and 1973. These flashbacks center on Harry Morgan and feature Laura Moser alongside her two young sons—Brian Moser (age 7) and Dexter Moser (age 2½)—highlighting the traumatic events that shaped their fates.

In Dexter: Original Sin, Eli Sherman portrays Little Dexter, while Xander Mateo takes on the role of Young Brian. Both child actors have delivered great performances, especially considering the intense and emotionally challenging scenes they had to navigate at such a young age.

The Iconic Shipping Container Scene Returns

One of the most haunting moments in Dexter history—the shipping container scene—was recreated for Episode 9, titled "Blood Drive." This pivotal event, which sees young Brian and Dexter trapped inside a shipping container for three days in a pool of their mother’s blood, was originally introduced in Dexter’s first season and remains a defining moment for both characters.

Following the latest episode's release, the parents of Eli Sherman and Xander Mateo took to Instagram to share exclusive behind-the-scenes photos from the shipping yard sequence on their sons’ professional accounts. Director Michael Lehmann was present for this intense scene, which also marked the final moments both young actors filmed for the show.

Behind-the-Scenes Moments from Dexter: Original Sin Episode 9

1. Dexter and Harry – Christian Slater (Harry Morgan) is seen holding Little Dexter (Eli Sherman) as he chats with director Michael Lehmann between takes at the shipyard.

2. Between Takes in the Shipping Container – Eli Sherman and Xander Mateo after wrapping the bloody rescue scene, surrounded by crew members.

3. A Director’s Guidance – Both Eli Sherman and Xander Mateo listen attentively as veteran director Michael Lehmann gives them advice.

4. The Director’s Perspective – This shot reveals that the shipping container scene was filmed at CBS Radford Studios, while the Miami Metro rescue scenes were shot at an actual Los Angeles shipyard.

5. Smiles in a Bloody Setting – A lighter moment on set amidst the show’s dark themes.

6. Xander Mateo as Young Brian – A solo shot of the young actor in character.

7. Eli Sherman with Michael Lehmann – The young Dexter actor shares a moment with the director.

8. Eli Sherman Between Takes – A candid glimpse of Sherman relaxing between intense scenes.

9. Eli Sherman with a Dexter: Original Sin Clapper – The young actor proudly holds a clapperboard after finishing his final scene.

As Dexter: Original Sin approaches its season finale, these behind-the-scenes moments offer fans a deeper look at how one of the show’s most haunting scenes was brought to life. Stay tuned for more updates as we count down to the final episode!