
The X-Files (1993)
The exploits of FBI Special Agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully who investigate X-Files: marginalized, unsolved cases involving paranormal phenomena. Mulder believes in the existence of aliens and the paranormal while Scully, a skeptic, is assigned to make scientific analyses of Mulder's discoveries that debunk Mulder's work and thus return him to mainstream cases.
Details
First Air Date
9/10/1993
Last Air Date
3/21/2018
Network
FOX
Rating
8/10 (3186 votes)
Status
Ended
Production Companies
Ten Thirteen Productions, 20th Century Fox Television
About The X-Files
"The X-Files," which premiered in 1993, centers on FBI Special Agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully. Their investigations cover a series of unexplained cases, often involving paranormal events, alien encounters, and government conspiracies. Mulder, driven by a personal history, believes in extraterrestrial life and supernatural phenomena, approaching each case with an open mind. Scully, a medical doctor and scientist, is assigned to provide a rational, scientific perspective, frequently offering counter-explanations to Mulder's theories.
While the series delves into its overarching "mythology" arcs concerning alien colonization and government cover-ups, many episodes operate as standalone "Monster of the Week" stories. These individual episodes explore various supernatural creatures, unexplained mysteries, and local folklore. The structure allowed the show to explore a wide range of genres, from classic sci-fi to horror and psychological thrillers, all while maintaining the central dynamic between Mulder and Scully's conflicting beliefs.
Why you might be searching for The X-Files
People are often searching for "The X-Files" due to its lasting impact within the science fiction and mystery genres, particularly its influence on subsequent television shows. Searches frequently relate to its exploration of alien and UFO narratives, government conspiracies, and the distinctive dynamic between its two lead FBI agents, Mulder and Scully. The series' blend of supernatural elements with crime investigation also makes it a memorable title for those interested in complex, long-running mysteries.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer commented that the show defined television excellence, influencing subsequent productions by demonstrating what could be achieved with a one-hour format and high-quality writing and acting.
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You can stream *The X-Files* on [Hulu](https://www.hulu.com/series/the-x-files-d6a7aec6-72d2-46bb-b337-2cb412df64c8) or [Disney Plus](https://www.justwatch.com/us/tv-show/the-x-files?jw_id=aiGapStgEe-n4rLaSo6jTA&jw_sig=rdDieoUlTkJYORgnQ2AVT4a9NOlEvh5ejhRvmHOzNss%3D&jw_ts=1718487856). It is also available for free with ads on [Pluto TV](https://www.justwatch.com/us/tv-show/the-x-files?jw_id=aiGapStgEe-n4rLaSo6jTA&jw_sig=rdDieoUlTkJYORgnQ2AVT4a9NOlEvh5ejhRvmHOzNss%3D&jw_ts=1718487856).
*The X-Files* is a science fiction drama and is not based on a true story. It follows FBI agents investigating paranormal phenomena and government conspiracies, drawing inspiration from shows like *The Twilight Zone* and *Kolchak: The Night Stalker*.
There are 11 seasons of *The X-Files*, totaling 218 episodes. The original run had nine seasons, with two revival seasons airing in 2016 and 2018.
*The X-Files* was a critical and popular success, gaining a large cult following and winning three Golden Globe Awards for best drama. Critics have called it one of the best series of the 1990s and a significant cultural touchstone.