The surreal elements of this episode, a first, elevated it. These artistic elements extend beyond the dreamlike artsy sequences into the framing of other scenes (such as when Scully leaves Bogg's cell). It seems more artistry and time went into the planning and production of this episode. It pays off.
That along with Brad Dourif's unpredictable and creepy performance and giving the character of Scully humanity, depth, conflict, and her own identity. Small details, such as the NICAP hat from a previous episode, matter - and also add to the overall takeaway. Another good episode. The second one. Almost third, after Ice and Fire (ha).
The only potential con was Fox's stubbornness, which seemed out of character (although perhaps understandable), and then flip towards the close of the episode. Still, it was fine.
There were several tender moments between Fox and Dana that skirted the line. It was nice to see Dana's character front and center. Gillian really stepped up and delivered. Duchovny's performance was toned down, which was appreciated. The open-ended nature of some arcs and a few unexpected turns were a positive. This episode had the most emotional impact of the series yet.
When I began rewatching the series, I was worried this was a "don't revisit your past" situation. It was worse than I could have imagined. There was something there, but it was very hard to see behind all the cringe, bad writing and poor execution. The show seems to be gaining it's footing (before losing it again, in another way, later). Hopefully, this upward trend continues.
Review by VesparadoBlockedParent2023-07-30T02:43:34Z
The surreal elements of this episode, a first, elevated it. These artistic elements extend beyond the dreamlike artsy sequences into the framing of other scenes (such as when Scully leaves Bogg's cell). It seems more artistry and time went into the planning and production of this episode. It pays off.
That along with Brad Dourif's unpredictable and creepy performance and giving the character of Scully humanity, depth, conflict, and her own identity. Small details, such as the NICAP hat from a previous episode, matter - and also add to the overall takeaway. Another good episode. The second one. Almost third, after Ice and Fire (ha).
The only potential con was Fox's stubbornness, which seemed out of character (although perhaps understandable), and then flip towards the close of the episode. Still, it was fine.
There were several tender moments between Fox and Dana that skirted the line. It was nice to see Dana's character front and center. Gillian really stepped up and delivered. Duchovny's performance was toned down, which was appreciated. The open-ended nature of some arcs and a few unexpected turns were a positive. This episode had the most emotional impact of the series yet.
When I began rewatching the series, I was worried this was a "don't revisit your past" situation. It was worse than I could have imagined. There was something there, but it was very hard to see behind all the cringe, bad writing and poor execution. The show seems to be gaining it's footing (before losing it again, in another way, later). Hopefully, this upward trend continues.