The main through-lines of this ongoing series first came into play in this solid second episode. Despite grave warnings from a mysterious government man (top character actor Jerry Hardin), Agent Mulder is determined to probe into the mystery of military test pilots going missing in Southwest Idaho. Naturally, he's trying to uncover secrets that powerful people will try to KEEP secret at any cost.
But, in a sense, you do have to respect Mulder. He's never afraid to be laughed at or scoffed at. And he won't be dissuaded from exposing the truth about aliens on Earth, and the involvement of the U.S. government. He's positively giddy at times as he witnesses things that can't be easily explained. Scully still tries to cling to reality at every turn, but she's not going to change his mind. Meanwhile, some ominous looking suits will try to hinder Mulders' progress, and people like "Deep Throat" (this was Hardins' first appearance in the role) will try to help him if they can.
Writer / series creator Chris Carter and director Daniel Sackheim are in fine form, crafting a fast-moving bit of entertainment with some memorable images and effects. Plus, this is the first time we hear that familiar X-Files theme, helping viewers to get into the proper spirit. Guest performances by Seth Green (amusing as a kid who sneaks onto military property to witness strange things), Gabrielle Rose, Michael Bryan French, and Andrew Johnston help to keep things interesting.
That final line from Deep Throat certainly is a great way to cap off this episode.
Seven out of 10.
But, in a sense, you do have to respect Mulder. He's never afraid to be laughed at or scoffed at. And he won't be dissuaded from exposing the truth about aliens on Earth, and the involvement of the U.S. government. He's positively giddy at times as he witnesses things that can't be easily explained. Scully still tries to cling to reality at every turn, but she's not going to change his mind. Meanwhile, some ominous looking suits will try to hinder Mulders' progress, and people like "Deep Throat" (this was Hardins' first appearance in the role) will try to help him if they can.
Writer / series creator Chris Carter and director Daniel Sackheim are in fine form, crafting a fast-moving bit of entertainment with some memorable images and effects. Plus, this is the first time we hear that familiar X-Files theme, helping viewers to get into the proper spirit. Guest performances by Seth Green (amusing as a kid who sneaks onto military property to witness strange things), Gabrielle Rose, Michael Bryan French, and Andrew Johnston help to keep things interesting.
That final line from Deep Throat certainly is a great way to cap off this episode.
Seven out of 10.