Memento Mori

This episode was depressing. Agent Scully's narration was dreadful. Remember Season 2's Dod Kalm episode when Mulder and Scully were aging on a submarine that was sucking the youth and life out of them? Scully's narration drained the joy and energy out of me then and she did it again during this episode. Her narration is the pits.

Memento Mori is an episode that will certainly tug at your heartstrings. Right off, we see a touching teaser that features a voice-over by Gillian Anderson. There are lots of voice-overs by Gillian Anderson in this episode, and they help to express the emotion that is present. What gets me right away is Mulder's concern for Scully, and his refusal to accept what has happened to her. He'll go to any length to find out what's really wrong with her. And Skinner is right there with Mulder. He refuses to allow Mulder to deal with the Cigarette Smoking Man. He then essentially "sells his soul to the Devil" in order to get a cure for Scully. This will pay out in a later episode. Another thing that makes this episode great is that the Lone Gunmen are in it and they get to do some action on the outside, helping Mulder break into a building. This episode features an interesting deleted scene with Scully's brother Bill, where he berates her for the choices she's made. The make-up for Scully after she's received some chemotherapy is very good. She looks so beaten. The strong emotion is what carries this episode, and makes it one of the finest of season four.

Emmy-nominated "Memento Mori" (4.14, 1997) (co-written by Chris Carter, Frank Spotnitz, Vince Gilligan and John Shiban) This highly dramatic episode opens with an angst filled prologue by Agent Dana Scully. Her battle against this mysterious "cancer" is described in many emotional vignettes throughout the episode. Mulder's nonacceptance of the possibility of Scully dying is the driving force, because he'll basically go to any length to find out what's really wrong with her. The Ciggarrette Smoking man is here for the ride and Mulder is desperately trying to get information from him with the aid of Skinner. Here to help Mulder in the tight situations are the Lone Gunmen who provide a few lighter moments. Mulder has to make an extremely shady deal to acquire the cure for Scully. Her mother and brother are present for her support and their frustration with the situation is apparent, especially her brothers ideas of Mulder. Scully is a mere shell of herself towards the end of the episode, which the viewer can sympathize with. A great episode, not to miss.

We finally learn what's up with Scully, and the obvious question is answered, what exactly did Leonard Betts need from her.

Where do you even begin with this one, it has everything going on, it's action packed, dramatic, it's one that really does tug away at the heart strings, one thing it really does offer up though, is hope.

The Lone Gunmen, Cancer Man, Scully's mum, so many familiar faces keep on popping up. We also learn quite a lot about Skinner, and the lengths he's prepared to go to for Scully.

It is a tough watch, as it does deal with a horrid illness that affects to many lives, it's quite sensitively handled here.

Gillian Anderson, I think that's perhaps the best performance I've seen from her so far, she was breathtaking here. I loved her voice overs, I found them so meaningful.

Awesome episode, 10/10.

"Memento Mori," directed by Rob Bowman, is a poignant exploration of mortality, love, and the complexities of human relationships. Written by Vince Gilligan, the episode serves as a critical chapter in the overarching narrative of the series, focusing on Scully's (Gillian Anderson) struggle with her cancer diagnosis while also delving into the dark world of government conspiracies involving alien abductions. The episode opens with a haunting voiceover from Scully, setting a somber tone as she reflects on her life and the inevitability of death.

As the story unfolds, Mulder (David Duchovny) becomes increasingly involved in uncovering the truth behind Scully's illness and its connection to the ongoing alien conspiracy. The pacing is deliberate, allowing viewers to absorb the emotional weight of Scully's journey as she grapples with her diagnosis and what it means for her future. A particularly striking scene occurs when Mulder reads Scully's letters, which she intended to be opened only after her death. This moment serves as a powerful reminder of their bond and the unspoken feelings that exist between them, adding layers of complexity to their relationship.

Visually, "Memento Mori" employs a dark and atmospheric aesthetic that enhances its themes of despair and hope. Bowman's direction captures both the sterile environment of medical facilities and the emotional turmoil experienced by Scully as she confronts her mortality. The cinematography utilizes shadows and muted colors to evoke feelings of dread, particularly during scenes where Scully undergoes medical examinations. Critics have praised this visual storytelling for its ability to immerse viewers in a world where life hangs in the balance.

The performances in this episode are exceptional, particularly from Anderson and Duchovny. Anderson delivers a powerful portrayal of Scully's vulnerability; she effectively conveys her character's internal struggle as she navigates her fears about death while maintaining her strength. Duchovny's performance as Mulder showcases his determination to protect Scully at all costs; his emotional range is on full display as he balances hope with despair. The chemistry between Anderson and Duchovny shines throughout the episode, adding emotional depth to their partnership as they confront the challenges ahead.

Thematically, "Memento Mori" raises profound questions about life, death, and what it means to truly live. The episode critiques how individuals respond to existential threats; it examines how love can serve as both a source of strength and vulnerability. Additionally, it highlights societal attitudes toward illness; Scully's journey reflects the struggles many face when confronted with mortality. This exploration invites viewers to reflect on their beliefs regarding life, love, and the inevitability of loss.