Nisei

This and the episode after it 731 is not my favourite myth arc episodes . It's just too slow for my tastes and I didn't like the way those Mufon women tried to pressure Scully into talking about her abduction. It's a bit slow and boring in one es .

The ninth episode of the third season of "The X-Files," titled "Nisei," directed by David Nutter, serves as a pivotal entry in the series' ongoing mythology, delving into the complexities of government conspiracies and the legacy of wartime atrocities. The episode begins with Mulder (David Duchovny) receiving a tape that allegedly documents an alien autopsy, which propels him and Scully (Gillian Anderson) into a web of intrigue involving Japanese scientists and their dark pasts. This narrative effectively intertwines historical context with the show's supernatural elements, creating a compelling backdrop for the unfolding mystery.

As Mulder and Scully investigate the origins of the tape, they uncover connections to Operation Paperclip and its Japanese counterpart, revealing a disturbing history of experimentation on human subjects. The pacing of "Nisei" is brisk and engaging, maintaining tension as the agents navigate through layers of deception and danger. The episode's structure allows for a seamless blend of action and exposition, culminating in a thrilling sequence where Mulder infiltrates a moving train to confront the truth behind the alien autopsy. This sequence is particularly well-executed, showcasing Nutter's skillful direction in creating suspenseful moments that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

Visually, "Nisei" employs a dark and atmospheric aesthetic that enhances its themes of secrecy and paranoia. Nutter's direction captures both the claustrophobic settings of government facilities and the vastness of the landscapes Mulder traverses in pursuit of answers. The cinematography effectively contrasts light and shadow, symbolizing the duality of truth and deception that permeates the episode.

Critics have noted that this visual storytelling complements the unfolding drama, immersing viewers in the unsettling world of conspiracy and cover-up.

The performances in this episode are particularly strong, with Duchovny delivering a compelling portrayal of Mulder as he grapples with his obsession for truth amidst growing danger. His emotional depth is evident as he confronts not only external threats but also his own fears regarding his family's legacy. Anderson's Scully provides a rational counterbalance; her skepticism grounds Mulder's theories while emphasizing her commitment to uncovering the truth behind their investigation. The supporting cast also shines, particularly in their interactions with Mulder and Scully, which reveal both complicity and fear among those involved in the conspiracy.

Thematically, "Nisei" raises important questions about morality, accountability, and the consequences of scientific experimentation. The episode examines how individuals can become complicit in atrocities when driven by ambition or fear; it explores how government entities manipulate knowledge for their own gain while disregarding ethical considerations. Additionally, it highlights societal attitudes toward past injustices; characters like Kazuo Sakurai (played by Michael Shamus Wiles) represent the complexities of loyalty and betrayal within a system fraught with corruption. This exploration invites viewers to reflect on their beliefs regarding justice, accountability, and the moral implications of historical actions.

In conclusion, "Nisei" stands out as a significant entry in "The X-Files," successfully blending elements of psychological drama with historical commentary while advancing key plotlines that resonate throughout future episodes. While it may leave some questions unanswered, it effectively maintains tension and intrigue throughout its runtime. The exploration of these themes within a modern context invites viewers to consider their perceptions of truth and morality in society, solidifying "The X-Files" as a thought-provoking examination of human experience amidst extraordinary phenomena. As it reflects broader societal concerns regarding historical injustices and governmental secrecy, this episode leaves audiences pondering their own relationships with accountability and ethical responsibility.

This show in particular was within the larger story arc of X-Files, focusing quite a bit on both Scully and Mulder being thrust into the alien storyline. Writing is very solid, with a great amount of mystery along with tension throughout the episode.

Action is to be had in both sneaking and chasing, though one has to wonder why a criminal diplomat would run from authorities and if they do, why they're not carrying a gun. Despite a few questionable actions, the general direction was very compelling as the evidence began to be revealed. Intrigue is laced throughout officials, blurring the lines of knowing who to trust and who not to trust. Looking forward to the next episode!

Mulder buys a videotape which claims to show an Alien autopsy, his interest is further retained by a seemingly linked murder.

The story telling is deep, and admittedly somewhat heavy, but every single element that makes The X Files special is here, it quite literally has a wealth of content.

The music, pacing and tone are all A1, I've had a bit of a break from The X Files, but ready to get right back into it, what an episode to return to.

After a hugely dramatic opening, it settles into a story of mystery and intrigue, the investigating pair both experience much, and are left knowing that the truth is out there.

Fantastic, 9/10.

This is good in how it mines a specific (recurring) idea behind the show, one I've touched on in previous posts.

The episode is reminiscent of previous mythology ones, but season 3 so far is on another level and fittingly this is the most self-aware handling of the theme in the whole series.

The idea is that Mulder is the viewer of a movie that is created around him (that he partially creates?) to supposedly conceal 'truth'. He is on the same footing, indeed fits the same profile, as the intended audience, watching this for spooky revelations. Now look at the introductory narrative device of this: Mulder has purchased an 'alien surgery' video where, apparently, an alien is being operated on by doctors, which is partial cctv footage of the pre-credit sequence we saw moments earlier. What he hasn't seen, and we have, is how the scene ends, with a SWAT team raiding the room killing everyone.

So this starts with Mulder looking at the same images we did, looking to unveil truth. The big questions are of course trivial and the same as every other mythology episode, by now you probably now there is nothing to give away they haven't already: aliens exist. What he hasn't seen in the video, we have: the alien. It's all beating around the bush from there on out.

So this is nice. Mulder like any conspiracy theorist purchases a video which is the truth being suppressed. Every story element from then on is juvenile, as juvenile as the conspiracy notions of UFOlogists themselves. See for yourself.. Mulder and Scully drive to the house of the man who sold the videos, find him killed just moments before. (how he found the video is also fun; nicked it off a satellite dish, these it would be off a Pentagon pc) The killer is still in the house, Mulder chases after him and makes the arrest. Later, they're told he's a high-ranking Japanese diplomat and has to be released, though he's an obvious suspect to homicide. But Mulder keeps his briefcase which, surprise surprise, turns out to contain secret paperwork!

How childishly imagined is all that in its perfect convenience? I mean this not as a putdown but as explication of the narrative dynamics. This is a story a teenager or conspiracy theorist would come up with, where every piece cleanly fits into some authoritative scheme.

The entire episode has Mulder and Scully like teenagers encountering 'adult' figures of some authority (Skinner, X, the senator, the naval officer, etc.), trying to decipher how much in this narrative is a hoax or red herring, wondering who to trust. It's good if you can squeeze into that mindspace.