David Duchovny
Gillian Anderson
Mitch Pileggi

Created by:
Chris Carter

1993-2002
Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi
Fox
TV-MA

“The X-Files” is a now-dated sci-fi TV show that had a huge, initially cult, following. That makes sense, because it’s a logical continuation of other TV paranormal mysteries, including the “Twilight Zone.” It also incorporates into its episodes what was considered, at the time, emerging technology (e.g., cell phones and email). Some have even paired its increasing success with the expansion of Internet usage in this country.

In addition, others have compared it to “Fringe,” a much more recent sci-fi TV series. These two shows do have similarities: the sci-fi genre and the combination of an overarching story that develops throughout the entire series with episodes that focus on individual cases (the “monster of the week” structure). However, “The X-Files” is much slower and has much less action than “Fringe.”

At the heart of “The X-Files” is the relationship between Mulder and Scully. So, David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson carry the weight of this show on their shoulders. They’re fairly well-matched as two partners with different perspectives. Duchovny does what he does: say most of his lines with a lazy sarcasm, which kind of works in this context. And Anderson does what she is now known for: provide a presence of intelligence and observation, which thankfully helps to bolster Duchovny’s performance. To pull it all off, the writers have to bring it, as well. They have to keep track of the overarching story and provide enough interesting ideas from episode to episode.

If you like paranormal stories, have a tolerance for a slow buildup and for predictably spooky music, and can overlook the now-dated style of “The X-Files,” then it just might be for you. But keep in mind that it can be rather clunky.

Verdict: OK

About: (Source: xfiles)

`The truth is out there,’ and FBI agents Scully and Mulder seek it in this sci-fi phenomenon about their quest to explain the seemingly unexplainable. Their strange cases include UFO sightings, alien abductions and just about anything else paranormal. The tales were spooky and well-written, but the long-running cult favorite’s strength was a gallery of intriguing (when they weren’t just enigmatic) characters, and the dynamic—and intense bond—between believer Mulder and skeptic Scully.