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
Premiering in 1993, "The X-Files" delves into the cases of FBI Special Agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully. The series explores a range of paranormal phenomena, with Mulder operating from a belief in aliens and the supernatural. Scully, a medical doctor and skeptic, is assigned to provide scientific analysis, often challenging Mulder's conclusions. This dynamic forms the core of the show as they investigate unsolved cases, dubbed 'X-Files'.
The series incorporates elements of mystery, science fiction, and crime, weaving narratives around themes of government cover-ups, alien encounters, and various supernatural events. Its sustained run of 11 seasons and 218 episodes allowed for deep exploration of its central mythology while also presenting standalone monster-of-the-week stories. The blend of these narrative styles, coupled with the contrasting perspectives of its lead characters, contributed to its sustained popularity.
Over its run, "The X-Files" garnered an average audience score of 8 out of 10 from over 3,000 votes, and an IMDb rating of 8.6 from over 270,000 voters. The show's influence extended beyond its initial broadcast, establishing a significant presence in television history.
Why you might be searching for The X-Files
People search for 'The X-Files' for its distinctive blend of FBI investigation with paranormal elements, particularly the alien and conspiracy themes. Specific searches often relate to the dynamic between the two agents, the show's impact on television, and the unique creatures and mysteries explored in individual episodes.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer suggested that the 'Monster of the Week' episodes often surpassed the main mythology arc in quality, though some mythological episodes were still quite strong.
Read the full reviewA reviewer felt the series significantly raised the standard for television dramas, influencing subsequent productions by demonstrating what could be achieved in a one-hour format through strong acting and writing that engaged the audience.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
You can stream all eleven seasons of The X-Files on Hulu and Prime Video in the US. It's also available with ads on Pluto TV.
No, The X-Files is not based on a true story. It is a science fiction drama television series created by Chris Carter, focusing on fictional FBI agents investigating paranormal phenomena.
There are 11 seasons of The X-Files, with a total of 218 episodes. The original series ran for nine seasons, and two revival seasons aired in 2016 and 2018.