The X-Files: I Want to Believe

For diehard disciples of Chris Carter’s awesomely multifarious chiller “The X-Files,” the latest big-screen adaptation might not be the supernatural recharge they were hoping for. “The X-Files: I Want to Believe” contains almost no mystical commotion outside of a pedophile priest who claims he can see missing people and even he doesn’t offer much in the way of legitimate paranormal aptitude. Instead, Carter strings together a series of spiritual challenges designed to compel Mulder and Scully into a state of full-on personal introspection, while still hot on the trail of an illegal organ harvesting cartel (Now there‘s the horror we’ve come to love!).

As a mild fan of the show’s later seasons, I found the subtle narrative groove here to be a welcomed upgrade over the cloudy meanderings that often dulled the show’s creative edge near the end. Some people may disagree with making the two sullen FBI agents a couple, but I think it only makes sense considering how much the sexual tension has percolated over the years. The fact is that they bring out the best in one another and their love has only grown stronger since the last time they worked a case together.

David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson have these roles so embedded in their system that the chemistry is just as sharp and breezy as it was back in 1993, which, to me, is reason enough to spend your time indulging in this never-ending search for the truth.

Like I said before, the plot couldn’t be further from extraterrestrial territory and Amanda Peet and Xzibit have been brought in as co-stars, so don’t go expecting a spectacular Summer thrill ride. However, the surprising gravity of comedian Billy Connolly as Father Joe is intriguing at every twist and sets the stage for some of the more creepy moments.

If the intensity level doesn’t quite do it for you, may I suggest picking up the first three seasons (Brilliant, to say the least) of the show to witness what pure cinematic fright is made of. Or check them both out and then decide for yourself whether the truth really is out there.

Side Note: Watch for the scene where the picture of George W. Bush is accompanied by the eerie theme music (Nice touch).

- *** out of 4