The 23 Best Mulder and Scully Moments
By Tina Wargo
The X-Files, episode: “Detour;” screengrab via Fox.
#5: Detour
When it comes to building a classic X-File, perhaps no trope is more necessary than a monster in the dark and creepy woods. Add in a dash of rebellion against the FBI, at least one of the agents wounded, and some not-so-subtle Mulder/Scully flirtation and you’ve got a near perfect soufflé of spook.
We begin with Mulder and Scully on their way to an FBI communication retreat, which Mulder promptly decides they don’t need to bother with because they totally know what they’re doing by now. (Note: they kind of still have no idea what they’re doing by now). They pull over in the woods (ingredient 1) and get immediately roped into a case involving a seemingly invisible monster. The local police are convinced they have everything under control; Mulder is determined to let them know that they, in fact, do not. Scully does some eye-rolling. It’s all 100% worth blowing off real FBI work for.
There’s a ton of woods-running, almost-sightings, conjecture about science vs. ghosts vs. something that lives somewhere in between. Oh, and Mulder gets hurt (ingredient 2). And now it’s night time, and Mulder and Scully have gotten separated from the rest of the team. It’s scary out there. There’s a dangerous invisible murderer on the loose. At least one of them has to stay awake! And how do you ensure your totally platonic partner who’s cradling you to keep you warm (INGREDIENT 3!!!!!) doesn’t fall asleep? Why, you make her sing to you. Our very platonic and professional FBI agents strike again.
Next: #4: The Post-Modern Prometheus