‘Stumptown’ Episode 13 ‘The Dex Factor’ brilliantly paints the PI as a jumble of contradictions

Thanks to Dex’s whiz-bang high action in ‘Stumptown’, ABC’s thriller-drama has helped us find the quintessential heroine in Cobie Smulders. The private investigator's skills are as commendable as her work ethics, and the combination of two has presented us with a protagonist who is guaranteed to get imprinted on the minds of the viewers even after the show ends. 

But there is another side to Dex, which has played a key role in showing her in different light throughout the series. Dex as we know her is someone who chooses to get lost in the world of gambling and attempts to drown her sorrow in alcohol when faced with the demons within. 

Her contradictions have been evident all along and they get amplified in the latest episode. In ‘The Dex Factor’, the former Marine meets an ex-military officer, who takes no longer than a few seconds to get into Dex’s head. 

Following a brief conversation about their respective jobs, Violet describes Dex in a manner that leaves the latter startled. Influenced by Violet’s words, a vulnerable Dex is seen asking herself if she’s embracing her demons or rather fighting them. 

Completely Smitten by Violet’s charm, Dex gives herself in completely and ends up sleeping with the hitwoman. 

Dex, who was determined to be by herself after pushing Miles Hoffman (Michael Ealy) away, is yet again seen taking a plunge in the sinkhole of contradictions, as her promiscuity resurfaces. 

In the same episode, she is also seen turning green-eyed monster for Max, as Grey McConnell (Jake Johnson) makes no effort in hiding his feelings. And, when she, Grey and Miles gather to discuss their plan for the sting operation, Dex couldn't resist talking about her past relationship with both of them, which she herself chose to end. 

It almost feels like Dex’s uncertainty is causing her more damage than her devastating past. She turns a blind eye to one side of hers when the other dominates, going further down the spiral of self-destruction. 

‘Stumptown’ airs on ‘Wednesdays’ on ABC.