Comedic changes of pace are not necessary for this series, and if they are going to do them they better be funny. This wasn't. It was worse, uninteresting. Continuity issue: The monster's clothes (which I thought were an homage to Kolchak the Night Stalker) were not part of his transformation but something he took from a dead human. In the first scene we see him in human form (sitting in the Port-o-Potty) he's wearing them when he has freshly transformed from lizard form in that industrial yard and didn't have the clothes handy...unless he has the power to pull them out of his, well, you see what I'm saying. Maybe I missed something because the episode was so dulling to the senses.
2
Dude, lighten up.
1
... did np pne get the Tribute to KOLCHAK: THE NIGHT STALKER, the WereLizard guy's Outfit was Karl Kolchack's....you are all too young...LOL !The whole x Files series is based on it !
R
R
4
Really enjoyed this episode. I'll note that Rhys Darby plays an actual werewolf in the very funny 2014 New Zealand comedy movie What We Do In The Shadows.
4
The plates on Mulder's car 213 XTC. Any significance to that?
213 is an area code in Los Angeles. In love with L.A., perhaps?
1
These reviews by Kaly Soto are little prose jewels in themselves. As a long time X-Files fan who grew up watching episodes on DVD-- some years after the show had ended, but before the rise of Netflix and Hulu--it has been delightful to recapture the joy of the series via the new "season", especially in this third episode which as Soto points out is close to the delightful humor of the old Darin Morgan episodes. Thanks, Soto, for recapping with wit and adding fascinating extra details.
2
This episode was HORRIBLE! I turned it off. Complete waste of 1 of only 6 episodes. The acting, writing, story all so bad - how could they possibly let this one out of the pig trough?
I want to "believe" it was it was just a bad dream and I will wake up and see an episode following the plot line of Sveta and her murder...
I want to "believe" it was it was just a bad dream and I will wake up and see an episode following the plot line of Sveta and her murder...
2
Wait a minute. In the last episode Mulder grandly proclaimed that Sveta is the key to the most sinister conspiracy in the history of mankind; then she is murdered. And now there's Mulder, feet on his desk, bored out of his mind, tossing pencils at the bulletin board and reviewing long-closed cases, before Scully takes him off on a silly escapade. Glad to see a sense of urgency. Curiously discordant, foolish episode.
4
With only six episodes for this (and probably final) installment, I thought it was a waste of an episode. On it's own, sure it was satirical, but in the context of the six episode run, what a waste.
3
Sorry, but anything that can make me laugh at 630 in the morning while preparing for work is a classic. Funny,droll and parody of the X-Files mythology. Only for X-File fans that have a sense of humor. Now if the Lone Gunmen (paragons of paranoia) return I will be completely satified with this season.
5
This episode really hit the sweet spot for me, which is no surprise because “Clyde Bruckman's Final Repose” and “Humbug” are probably my absolute top favorite X-Files episodes of all time. Don't get me wrong, it's a LONG list, with all kinds of different episodes (For example, I'm devoted to straight-up monster movie homages like "Ice" or eerie UFO mysteries like "Conduit" as well).
However, I think that the X-Files is at it's best when it's doing melancholy, twisted dark comedy that has something bitter-sweetly beautiful to tell us about the human condition. These are the episodes that I can watch again and again (and again, some more). ANY show in it's tenth season is going to be less than perfect. However, I have been having a blast just seeing these two on screen again, and I think this was the best one so far. I can't wait to watch it again.
However, I think that the X-Files is at it's best when it's doing melancholy, twisted dark comedy that has something bitter-sweetly beautiful to tell us about the human condition. These are the episodes that I can watch again and again (and again, some more). ANY show in it's tenth season is going to be less than perfect. However, I have been having a blast just seeing these two on screen again, and I think this was the best one so far. I can't wait to watch it again.
7
I was a big huge X-Files fan back-in-the-day. I had read the reviews of how this was a 'delightful comic' episode, so I caught it online. Wow. It came off as little more than bored actors doing line reading for the paycheck. There are a dozen different ways that a promising show can turn out 'bad'. Lethargic actors just going through the motions is one of the worst.
1
I have to watch the episode again. I missed the very beginning and I was interrupted close to the end, but those few seconds of the monster's retelling his romp with Scully was hilarious and made me want to believe that Mulder and Scully had their own X-File of a different nature.
Was it just me or did the actor who played Sheriff Miles (father of abductee Billy Miles) from seasons 1 and 7 show up at the end to haul away the real serial killer?
The X Files' ability to hop genres and overall tones has always amazed me. You have to buy into the tongue in cheekness of it all for an episode like this but once you do, it's a pleasure. I'll have to rewatch to catch some of the little tidbits I missed but I did enjoy Scully telling Mulder to stop throw pencils at "HER poster". Subtly be damned folks, The X Files crew is going for nostalgia in season 10 and I'm OK with that.
3
I enjoyed the first two episodes and looked forward to a well done mini-series of 6 episodes total. This episode was, in my humble opinion, a total waste of time. I left for my computer after 15 minutes and am glad I didn't spend more time watching. Another episode like this one and I will flush X Files forever.
1
I gotta go with the commenters who want/expected amore consistent arc if the "mini-series" was only going to last 10 episodes (is it six or ten, by the way?). The finale of the series and the two movies moved the arc forward. The double episode beiginning here started on that course (crudely, I'll admit).
I want the REAL X-Files. The smoking man is back, Skinner has reopened the cases. Also, let's get rid of the uncharacteristic decolletage on Scully. That's NOT the way an FBI field agent would be working a case.
I want the REAL X-Files. The smoking man is back, Skinner has reopened the cases. Also, let's get rid of the uncharacteristic decolletage on Scully. That's NOT the way an FBI field agent would be working a case.
Great article, but need to play-up how amazingly hilarious Rhys Darby was. Best line in TV history = Now, this model comes with 3000 gigaberts of pixelbits.
Perfect timing and showmanship, loved it all around
Eric:
Perfect timing and showmanship, loved it all around
Eric:
13
He's one of those comedians that says so many funny things that I become conditioned to just laugh every time I hear his voice!
I've already seen way too much of Mulder excoriating himself for believing anything he did before. He's, in fact, also implicitly mocking previous fans for their willingness to "believe".
But most of the fun of this genre *is* that willing acceptance of the improbable & impossible. These tedious rants just suck the fun right out of it.
Also, like much of tv comedy, these episodes are simply trying too hard to be silly, not funny. And again drain my enjoyment out of the show.
But most of the fun of this genre *is* that willing acceptance of the improbable & impossible. These tedious rants just suck the fun right out of it.
Also, like much of tv comedy, these episodes are simply trying too hard to be silly, not funny. And again drain my enjoyment out of the show.
5
Agree; this silly tone risks negating the premise of the original series. The original occasionally had comic moments and a few mostly comic episodes scattered during the nine seasons, but those comic moments were earned, and we're not inconsistent with the ongoing mythology of the series.
1
The homage to Twin Peaks (Knotty (naughty) pine hotel) (Northwest) (darn tall fir trees) continues to be apropos and generous. Your reviews from the first to this, swing to and fro' like a swamp-thing tail.
1
Clearly the comments are from a sub-culture of X-file groupies.
I had never seen the X-files until the reboot a few weeks ago. So I looked up some old episode fragments on YouTube and learned that the creator envisioned a tri-genre approach: paranormal, conspiracy, monster.
So, as a neophyte, non-groupie, let me offer the following "objective" observations:
The first two episodes were intriguing because the touched the border between plausible reality and sci-fi. Indeed, in the 2nd episode I have seen individuals with some of the pathetic conditions featured in lab scene. Also, alien matter gleaned from an asteroid or some-such is not far-fetched.
But the 3rd 'Were-X' episode drifted into the absurd as a parody on monster movie characters. The problem is that the alleged humor and 'clever' references undermine the seriousness of the other genres. So, in effect, the series defeats itself, regardless of the sexual chemistry of Sculley and Mulder (zzzzz).
I don't care whether X-files lives or dies. But at least respect the intelligence of the new viewer.
I had never seen the X-files until the reboot a few weeks ago. So I looked up some old episode fragments on YouTube and learned that the creator envisioned a tri-genre approach: paranormal, conspiracy, monster.
So, as a neophyte, non-groupie, let me offer the following "objective" observations:
The first two episodes were intriguing because the touched the border between plausible reality and sci-fi. Indeed, in the 2nd episode I have seen individuals with some of the pathetic conditions featured in lab scene. Also, alien matter gleaned from an asteroid or some-such is not far-fetched.
But the 3rd 'Were-X' episode drifted into the absurd as a parody on monster movie characters. The problem is that the alleged humor and 'clever' references undermine the seriousness of the other genres. So, in effect, the series defeats itself, regardless of the sexual chemistry of Sculley and Mulder (zzzzz).
I don't care whether X-files lives or dies. But at least respect the intelligence of the new viewer.
4
With none due respect: Forget the new viewer. This a reboot of a cult classic that is at the top of the comicon pyramid. An episode like this one was a homage to the fans that made this TV show easily one of the all-time greatest, as well as a huge inspiration for the glut of sci-fi shows on TV since. I think the fans deserved this inside-joke of a show. Thank you Chris Carter and Mr. Morgan!!
17
More "Easter eggs":
- Scully´s new dog´s name Daggoo is also a character from Moby Dick (like Queequeg Daggoo is also a harpooneer)
- the two stoners in the teaser also appeared in the episodes "War of The Coprophages (also written by Darin Morgan)" and "Quagmire"
- Scully´s new dog´s name Daggoo is also a character from Moby Dick (like Queequeg Daggoo is also a harpooneer)
- the two stoners in the teaser also appeared in the episodes "War of The Coprophages (also written by Darin Morgan)" and "Quagmire"
5
Thought they looked familiar.
2
Honestly Im not a huge fan , but I miss episodes like the €Goldberg Variation", thats just my opinion. On the other hand ,I Thought this episode had the X-Files spirit in it and I hope the writers come to find an astonishing closure for Mulher and Scully historty, because, really, everybody knows UFOs are out there We just want to know the truth about how it is going to end for those two world iconic main characters
2
great episode. funny and a great twist on being bitten by a monster but so many easter eggs regarding many of the writers previous episodes... love that they used the teens from the cockroaches episode as the same characters sniffing paint...
3
Like Scully's late lamented Pomeranian, Queequeg, the new dog, Dagoo, is named after a harpooner on the Pequod in Moby Dick. (Scully's father called her Starbuck, and she called him Ahab.)
2
It was fun. But I can't help feeling that with only six episodes, it would have been great to have a tightly plotted six hour arc with all the paranormal goodies woven together in service to the story.
That being said, I'm so glad it's back!
That being said, I'm so glad it's back!
3
I wished the same.
1
Sometimes silly is good and entertaining. This episode was an exception. Color me disappointed in the first 3 episodes from season 10 of one of my favorite television series of yesteryear. My warm nostalgia is still out there but I do believe season 10 to be a a bust or a network conspiracy.
3
You forgot to mention the red banana hammock.
3
This was stupid. It only kind of worked because of Rhys Darby. I miss him! (from Flight of the Conchords)
1
What an enjoyable episode! After a long day at work, just the right way to relax and have fun too. I thought the first episode was okay, the second fairly good, the two actors getting into character better and a dark story to get into as well, but this one was classic funny X-Files. Can't have too many of them for the show is pretty serious, but it was fun to see these two actors back in fine form. Rhys Darby was HILARIOUS! What a spin on human wants. The line about having to get a mortgage oh, so hit home;-) I can't blame him for wanting to return to being a monster. That ten thousand year hibernation sounds pretty good too! Only so much of humanity a monster can take.
5
There are options other than being a monster. Being a weirdo, for instance, like me. No mortgage, no car, no family, a job not a career, getting by, enjoying at least every other day, mostly. And not killing anyone either, actually not even maiming or even attacking anyone. But I did enjoy "Lefcadio's Adventures, "could be an influence on this episode.
2
This was definitely a product of the military-industrial-entertainment complex!
1
Scully's, "I'm immortal, remember?" Is a throwback to her escaping death and passing it on to the previously-immortal photographer in Tithonius. That was my favorite line in the entire episode!!
3
Actually, this line is a reference to the Clyde Bruckman episode. Clyde, who could foresee how people are going to die, when asked by curious Scully how she will slide off this mortal coil, tells her "you're not gonna die".
5
Ah, Clyde Bruckman. I live around the corner from where Peter Boyle used to live in NYC. I would see him from time to time. One time, I saw him at the gym (!), and it was right after I had see the Clyde Bruckman episode. I mentioned how sad it was, and he said to me: "You're telling me!"
2
I don't know -- it just didn't do it for me. They've been a whole lot funnier in the past.
There's tongue-in-cheek, and then there's sledgehammer to the temples. I suppose since there are only six episodes this time, the thought was to get in as many self-references and in-jokes as possible, but after a half hour I was getting very restless. It wasn't funny so much as relentless.
I do agree with the reviewer that the lizard man's speech went on way, way too long. However -- I was delighted to see that for once Scully wasn't the hapless victim of the demented animal control agent, but actually was able to subdue and capture him. Even if that was done off camera. It's about time.
There's tongue-in-cheek, and then there's sledgehammer to the temples. I suppose since there are only six episodes this time, the thought was to get in as many self-references and in-jokes as possible, but after a half hour I was getting very restless. It wasn't funny so much as relentless.
I do agree with the reviewer that the lizard man's speech went on way, way too long. However -- I was delighted to see that for once Scully wasn't the hapless victim of the demented animal control agent, but actually was able to subdue and capture him. Even if that was done off camera. It's about time.
7
We were guardedly optimistic about the new X-Files. We are hoping that last night is not indicative of the "absurdity" level going forward. Given the "absurdity" of today's reality shows (and "reality" politics), we hoped for more. This episode was just silly!
4
And some people here are just too serious. Yes. We need some silly. And this was it, plus brilliant and genius!
3
My wife and I liked this episode better than the second one, and the second one better than the first one. There was something to actually watch.
The show still needs to work on Scully/Mulder chemistry, though, as watching constantly on an unhappy couple is impossible. I also think that the original series had a much better camera work - the whole direction is wrong, and the FX in this episode were awful, - and that supporting actors are badly miscast. Dinesh Chugtai was awful, the rest are simply bad.
The show still needs to work on Scully/Mulder chemistry, though, as watching constantly on an unhappy couple is impossible. I also think that the original series had a much better camera work - the whole direction is wrong, and the FX in this episode were awful, - and that supporting actors are badly miscast. Dinesh Chugtai was awful, the rest are simply bad.
The Maulder-Scully relationship is truly unique,exact opposites in temperment and proclivites, yet deeply respectful of each others strengths and with a mystery of romance . Very much like a successful marriage.
Loved it. Rhys Darby is wonderful in general and inspired for this episode. I miss being scared on Friday nights, hope they do another series soon.
6
A new instant classic with great casting and just the right amount of tongue-in-cheek. Up there with a few of my light-hearted favorites. 'Je Souhaite' (2000) mean-spirited genie, and 'Post-Modern Prometheus' (1997) filmed in B&W with Cher song closing the show. All you X-Files neophytes should check em out.
9
Worst episode ever. Practically slapstick. Mulder was always funny in a dark, dry way, but this was like slapstick. If you've never seen the original X-Files, this season would NOT make you a fan.
6
I could not disagree more. It was a clever, well written episode. And well acted. Mulder & Scully were perfectly in context with their experience & current life circumstances, and Rhys Darby's performance was great.
23
It may have been a clever premise, but Anderson and Duchovny never sold it. For me, it always looked like they were metaphorically rolling their eyeballs and about to laugh out loud. Duchovny, especially, has lost the earnestness that made his character so endearing. Now he just seems jaded.
Ah, scrooge! It was a fun, witty, send-up of themselves. There will be more serious episodes with convoluted plot lines. I loved this show, and a serious X-Files fan. We can have it all!
4
I was disappointed. If I wanted comedy I'd watch the election. Seriously, I am watching the X-Files for the magic they brought us in the past and reunited for again now.
1
Perhaps you forgot some of that magic was given through humor. Did you even read the article? If you actually watched the magic that was the X Files, you'd know that there is always 1 or 2 comedic episodes in a season.
9
"Perhaps you forgot some of that magic was given through humor."
Not trying to speak for everybody, but I never liked those episodes....
Not trying to speak for everybody, but I never liked those episodes....
Lighten up, Francis! (Sorry it didn't work for you.)
1
When I saw the preview for this episode, I though I saw a man dressed like Karl Kolchak from the Night Stalker. That 1970s TV show was a favorite of mine and one of Chris Carter's inspirations for the X-Files, right up there with The Twilight Zone. In watching the show, it was nice to see that the monster in his human form was indeed dressed like Kolchak. There was even a line about his hat. I also enjoyed all the things the monster felt he was forced to do in his human form, including lying about sex with Scully. A truly enjoyable episode on so many levels.
20
Kolchak, YES! I noticed that too ... the seersucker blazer, black tie, and the banded hat. I loved the Night Stalker back in the day, which stoked my love for the X-Files years later. Nice that Darrin McGavin guested on a few episodes too. This costuming was very much an "Easter Egg", as the author alluded to.
3
Yes!
I thought the same...that's Kolchak! I enjoyed this episode, so many easter eggs.
Some of the Night Stalker episodes were pretty creepy.
Some of the Night Stalker episodes were pretty creepy.
Scully also comments that she is" immortal," which supports the theory from "The Final Repose of Clyde Bruckman," in which Mr. B. tells her in response to her asking how she dies- that she doesn't.
2
... And to Tithonius which set up that immortality.
1
What is interesting is Mulder's transformation from skeptic to sad believer.
Don't you have that backwards? Mulder was always a believer, he WANTED to be a believer. Only now is he a skeptic, "the unexplained has been explained."
There are a number of actors that have appeared in previous episodes...the sister in last week's episode was a social worker in a couple 1990s eps, and the opening group of huffers were in 90s eps as well.
But the Kolchak reference was the best thing ever.
This episode was the perfect antidote to the election crap going on. Indeed, the monsters are us.
But the Kolchak reference was the best thing ever.
This episode was the perfect antidote to the election crap going on. Indeed, the monsters are us.
6
My favorite episode involved Mulder and Scully trapped in a haunted house with Ed Asner and Lily Tomlin playing the ghosts. I always enjoyed more the episodes not involving spaceship aliens.
21
Hooray for Darin Morgan - and for Kaly Soto...spot-on review!
5
Enjoyed this ep. Was genuinely moved to see Mulder laying flowers at and touching the gravestone marked Kim Manners.
4
A wonderful many layered episode. The main thing that jumped out at me was that "Guy Mann" was dressed like Karl Kolchak, the Night Stalker, of 170s TV fame.
25
The sleazy motel manager uses a Jackalope trophy head to peer into the room with the "monster" and so ultimately does Mulder, echoing his opening scene comments about putting away childish things, like the Jackalope. Rhys Darby is pure comic magic and the perfect choice for this episode. I have to wonder if Darin Morgan was a fan of Darby from his brilliant turns as the band manager in Flight of the Conchords and a werewolf in What We Do in the Shadows.
6
For this middle aged newcomer to the series it was comedic to the point of losing suspension of disbelief (if that's how you say it). I want to believe but when it starts seeming like Gliiligan's Island I stop believing and lose interest. My son liked it. Hope next one more serious.
3
I think your comment about your son liking it sums it up. I assumed this was gauged to a younger audience, rather than us older fans. I guess one has to go with the times.
You missed one Easter Egg from Clyde Bruckman. Scully says she's immortal--direct reference to when he tells her how she dies: "You don't."
7
Has everyone forgotten Tithonius, where that immortality is set up? When she passes her death on to the previously-immortal photographer?
Scully's scene with Guy Mann (the were-lizard) in the cell phone store reminded me of the classic Rolling Stone cover where she's a damsel in distress, being grabbed my swamp monsters.
3
Oh for an edit button! We know that you meant to type "... being so upset that she grabbed my swamp monsters."
Loved the epitaphs in the cemetery: "Nothing says thank you like cash" and "Let's kick it in the ass."
4
A little uneven, but overall I'd say this episode rank in the top-tier pantheon of all X-Files episodes. Great writing this time around, and both of the principals were really, really back in their respective saddles. Bravo you guys.
9
What a fabulously wonderful episode yesterday. Way over the top funny and smart to boot. What a joy to have this show back on tv if only for 6 eps.
7
First episode this year I'd watch again, even if it felt too early for a comic entry & the performances were overly broad and self-referential. Still think the acting slips over the line into self-parody too often, as it has from S10E01.
Still, I laughed a lot and there were so many in-jokes for fans of the series that the episode came off warmly and welcomed.
Some of the contemporary ribald jokes -- Mulder's misinterpreted Grindr meet up last week, the trans gag this week -- feel forced and cheap instead of clever and up-to-date. It was like Hank Moody wandered over from "Californication."
Great finish, too. Hopefully this is where the season turns it around.
Still, I laughed a lot and there were so many in-jokes for fans of the series that the episode came off warmly and welcomed.
Some of the contemporary ribald jokes -- Mulder's misinterpreted Grindr meet up last week, the trans gag this week -- feel forced and cheap instead of clever and up-to-date. It was like Hank Moody wandered over from "Californication."
Great finish, too. Hopefully this is where the season turns it around.
2
This episode made me a fan again. Bravo! It was smart and funny with a bit of mysticism thrown in.
5
Did no one as yet notice the character "Guy Mann" was dressed in Darren McGavin's trade-mark outfit from "Kolchak: the Night Stalker"?!?
7
I watched it last night and it was priceless. A very fun and endearing show. I am just so bummed that this season only has only 6 episodes to it. So that means we are already half way through it.
I WANT TO BELIEVE that there will be more seasons and many more episodes!
In fact I DO BELIEVE!
I WANT TO BELIEVE that there will be more seasons and many more episodes!
In fact I DO BELIEVE!
14
Loved this episode so much! Thanks for all of the comments that pointed to the other easter eggs and references!
1
Amusing, but humor is not why I ever watched the X-files. I like weird stuff with no ready answers with a hint of other worlds. I'm done with the show.
1
In previous seasons there were always a couple comedic episodes that gave the viewer a break. Some of those episodes were among the all time greats! It can't always be serious, about some conspiracy. To each their own.
5
Lame, lame, lame.
The light comedic touches sprinkled through the first half of last night's episode transformed into a farce, insulting an audience who expects a higher caliber of writing. This is The X-Files, not The Marx Brothers.
Another Easter Egg: the killer worked as an animal control officer, just like the notorious Tooms.
7
This was a great episode! It was funny. And the "easter eggs" mentioned in the comments! I missed some of them in the episode......."yeah, this is how I like my X-Files!"
1
it was absolutely brilliant and hilarious from the start. Especially the part of the lizard man saying he had worries about saving enough for retirement. Loved every minute of it.
4
I really love this episode. Amazing performances, good direction, great argument (human-beings are turning into monsters? YES! And we don't realize it.)
Touching tribute to Kim Manners, that was beautiful.
And for me something that made me laugh and felt like "I'm not crazy, if so, who cares!": Mulder's ringtone. Maybe a lot of people have or had that one in their mobiles, but ME, I'm the only one in my office, and everyone looks at me scared when it sounds :( I'm so proud about the melody, but It's hard to see people's reaction. However, since yesterday at night, I don't feel alone anymore, thanks to my favorite man in the world.
Touching tribute to Kim Manners, that was beautiful.
And for me something that made me laugh and felt like "I'm not crazy, if so, who cares!": Mulder's ringtone. Maybe a lot of people have or had that one in their mobiles, but ME, I'm the only one in my office, and everyone looks at me scared when it sounds :( I'm so proud about the melody, but It's hard to see people's reaction. However, since yesterday at night, I don't feel alone anymore, thanks to my favorite man in the world.
2
Well, I always thought the comedic episodes negated the suspense surrounding the more straight-ahead ones. This episode seemed overly self-conscious and plodding. A disappointment.
2
This episode was a classic. I felt like this was an homage to x-files fans with all those references to past episodes and, of course to the wonderful Darrin McGavin.
I'm surprised no one mentioned Guy's imagined hot sex with Scully. Laugh out loud hilarious.
I'm surprised no one mentioned Guy's imagined hot sex with Scully. Laugh out loud hilarious.
12
Classic Darin Morgan, THE best writer TXF had (no disrespect to the similarly brilliant Vince Gilligan).
Another in-joke: the stoner couple was played by the same actors who portrayed a stoner couple in "War of the Coprophages", also written by Mr Morgan.
My heart rejoices at the X Files all-too-brief return. It's given me something to fill the long weeks before the return of Game of Thrones, (which, I can safely say, will never have a light-hearted episode.)
Another in-joke: the stoner couple was played by the same actors who portrayed a stoner couple in "War of the Coprophages", also written by Mr Morgan.
My heart rejoices at the X Files all-too-brief return. It's given me something to fill the long weeks before the return of Game of Thrones, (which, I can safely say, will never have a light-hearted episode.)
7
Also, they were in Quagmire licking toads.
you missed scully calling herself immortal. that is a reference to "tithonus," about a man who can't die, but wants to. also guy mann's clothes are directly from "kolchack: the night stalker," the show that chris carter calls the biggest influence for the x-files.
1
This episode alone is worth the entire revival. Best ever.
5
Yes. This was one of sthe best comedic episode of the entire series, second only to "Jose Chung's 'From Outer Space.'"
1
Absolutely delightful and clever! Loved all of the references to past X-files and those closely associated with it, especially a nod to Scully's immortality and to X-Files Producer Kim Manners. It's also great to see them having fun. I wasn't so sure about how successful a reboot would be, but I am glad the X-Files are back. The episodes just keep getting better and better. There will always be stories to tell as long as the writers, the cast, and the crew are willing. Bravo!
2
Here is a real cool hard to find Easter Egg.
The anti psycho pills Mulder finds in that Bates-like motel come from... Wait for it... Lycans Pharmacy!
Yes you gotta pause it to catch it, and I am very proud of myself for noticing!
The anti psycho pills Mulder finds in that Bates-like motel come from... Wait for it... Lycans Pharmacy!
Yes you gotta pause it to catch it, and I am very proud of myself for noticing!
24
Nice catch, well done!
Did you know that the REAL FBI has a "flying Disc" file, #62-83894, which contains UFO investigation files classified as "SECURITY MATTER - X." These are the real X-files! You can find them - not in historical order - at the FBI web site (Google FBI UFO). The CIA recently announced their real UFO "x" files (Google CIA UFO). These documents were released under the Freedom of Information act. They are discussed in their proper historical order and their importance is described in the book "The FBI CIA UFO Connection " (Google FBI CIA UFO)(get the book at Amazon). The truth may be "out there" but it is definitely "in here."
1
Also, Scully's comment that she is immortal is an Easter egg allusion to Clyde Bruckman, who told her she doesn't die.
i may be imagining this, but I think the hat and coat worn by Guy Mann were identical to those worn by Darren McGavin as the Night Stalker. Anyone else see that?
8
Interesting reference, but I didn't know the existence of that serie. However, because your comment, I made a little research and I found it interesteing. Thank u!
I loved the episode! Another Easter egg was when Scully mentioned that she was immortal, which Clyde Bruckman had prophesied in "Clyde Bruckman's Final Repose."
2
Another fabulous Easter egg: Mulder's red speedo was back - a callback to "Duane Barry" in the second season.
This episode was a delightful diversion and it was fun to see Scully catching the killer rather than being knocked unconscious and needing rescue!
This episode was a delightful diversion and it was fun to see Scully catching the killer rather than being knocked unconscious and needing rescue!
17
Scully's immortality, as predicted in “Clyde Bruckman’s Final Repose” and occurring in "Tithonus" is referenced.
2
Mulder's famous red Speedo! And a shout out to Kolchak the Night Stalker's wardrobe.
5
And of course nods to Charles Fort and Psycho, too.
2
I found myself laughing out loud several times during this episode. The role reversal is so well dead panned by Scully. So many lines flying by to follow and consider. I'll just have to watch again. These shows are all rehashed and closely chopped in pieces by my family and friends. It's like watching Downton Abbey, only with aliens. Gotta love it!!
15
This episode was a joy to behold and a true thank you to fans. Easter Eggs I noticed: the return of Mulder's red speedo and Scully referring to her immortality. Can't wait for the remaining season and whatever else is in store.
7
The red speedo was an uncomfortable reminder that everytime I look at Duchovny I see a sex addict...or whatever it was he went into treatment for a few years back. Ick!
I never watched the original X Files so I'm still feeling my way along here. Was the original series tongue in cheek like tonight's episode or somber? Which do fans prefer?
3
To answer the question about the original X Files, the series had recurring themes, and characters that were very serious, but occasionally they did
episodes like this , that were A bit funky and fun- made for the fans.
I think the best one was "Jose Chung's , From outer space" which had Charles Nelson Reilly -and Jesse Ventura who was A man in black, not to mention An
Alien that smokes. Also I liked the "Kolchak " homage with the seersucker suit and funny little hat. In case you don't know - "The Night Stalker "
series from the 70's , made weird and creepy, cool, paving the way for the X- Files.
episodes like this , that were A bit funky and fun- made for the fans.
I think the best one was "Jose Chung's , From outer space" which had Charles Nelson Reilly -and Jesse Ventura who was A man in black, not to mention An
Alien that smokes. Also I liked the "Kolchak " homage with the seersucker suit and funny little hat. In case you don't know - "The Night Stalker "
series from the 70's , made weird and creepy, cool, paving the way for the X- Files.
I'm new to the classic seasons on Netflix and I'm not quite sure. I do notice a probable dichotomy between fans who love it as spooky sci fi, fans into it for shipping, and fans who seriously believe in the conspiracy aspect. I loved this episode as a loving send up of not just the show's monsters-of-the-week, but all such episodes in various cult shows.
The original was not tongue in cheek, but it had a sense of humor at times. This new episode was a parody/gift for middle-aged fans. Hopefully, it provided enjoyment for all ages, though!
Classic X-Files just an amazing clever funny brilliant well written told and acted episode. Great guest stars and Mulder and Scully seemed to be having great fun. Good they are not sick like I heard they were on episode 2. I like episode 2 and thought would have been even better if they weren't sick as can hear Mulder has a cold and raspy voice. Episode 3 all are well and everything works and I give this a 10 out of 10. The twists are brilliant and the looks at who are monsters + people -- all perception. Actual monster of the episode was a human. Creature ate bugs. Just brilliant. If this doesn't get nominated for something especially Rhys Darby's amazing performance, I don't know what else you can do. My verdict Episode 1 was ok (still good to have it back though), Episode 2 was very good, Episode 3 was a classic up there with any X-File episode ever. This episode needs at least one additional viewing because there are so many things going on and this is a brainy + funny episode and Mulder and Scully reactions are gold (are gold Jerry).
12
You must be significantly younger than me because the most obvious sight gag other than the tombstones was the fact that the creature was dressed as Carl Kolchak and the way that Mulder was flashing his camera phone was the same manner in which Kolchak, The Nightstalker used to flash his camera in order to blind attacking creatures.
18
The Nightstalker! Now that's a show that's ripe for a remake!
1
It was, with Stuart Townsend, a few years ago. It died a quick death.
My favorite Easter Egg was Guy Mann's outfit, which the show acknowledged was a shout out to Night Stalker's Carl Kolchak - the real, Darrin McGavin one. At first I thought the episode was trying a bit to hard to achieve classic X Files comedy weirdness (the zenith of which was, for me, Jose Chung's From Outer Space). But it just kept getting better and better; I particularly liked that long exposition by our lizard man. We also had every X-File fanboy's dream come true before our eyes as Scully began the trek from immorality to immortality. And who knew Mulder had the same cellphone ringtone as I, I mean a guy I know does. Now that we're halfway home, Scully and Mulder seem to be drawing closer to one another. Perhaps our sci-fi classic is, at heart, a rom-com? ....with monsters.
14
Another Easter Egg in tonight's episode was Scully reminding Mulder that she was " immortal."
In the X Files' Emmy winning screenplay "Clyde Bruckman's Final Repose" ( also written by tonight's screenwriter Darin Morgan), Peter Boyle won an Emmy as an insurance agent who knew how a policy owner would die.
When Scully asked Clyde how she would die, he said " you don't."
In the X Files' Emmy winning screenplay "Clyde Bruckman's Final Repose" ( also written by tonight's screenwriter Darin Morgan), Peter Boyle won an Emmy as an insurance agent who knew how a policy owner would die.
When Scully asked Clyde how she would die, he said " you don't."
10
That call-back made me practically giddy! If Scully is immortal, the world is a much better place!
so many (great) Easter eggs: the stoner couple from Quagmire (he's also from war of coprophages), psychic from Clyde Bruckman, Scully's immortal, the red speedos, queequeg!, a hint of Flukeman aka Darin Morgan, that it was like a beautiful scavenger hunt of in-jokes - terrific fun
13
Good catch with Quagmire - they were also huffing methane in that episode, so this is another reference.
Further proof that Darin Morgan is one of the greatest television writers. He included many shout outs to prior episodes of his, including the incomparable "Clyde Bruckman's Last Repose." The actor who played the motel owner also appeared in Bruckman and another great Morgan episode, "Jose chung's from outer space." Scully gets another dog, named after a Melville character, like she did in Bruckman. She jokes that she is immortal, and Mulder talks about how he'd like to die, also things mentioned in Bruckman. This was a great episode, and I can't wait to watch it again.
16
I thought the transgender discussion was clever, as some lizards are unisexual and others bisexual--at least I vaguely remember something along those lines from high school biology. Fun episode!!
18
Agreed. As the AV Club's review mentioned, the punch line isn't the transgenered person, it's Guy's reaction; Mulder casually notes that "it happens all the time."
That makes the episode even more endearing to me, but for the folks who found it excessively silly and a waste of time, the title and that reference point offer one more bit of ammo for blasting the episode.