Red Museum

"Red Museum" is a unique episode in that it is structured like and feels like a standalone 'monster of the week' episode (small town+creepy elements=Mulder and Scully investigation) but has a mythology tie-in that comes late in the episode with Deep Throat's killer.

It's also a very, very good episode. I used to think that this script was all over the place, and that it had too many elements that were brought together too fast at the end. I mean, half-way through this episode you could be forgiven for calling it the "Brand X" of beef. In some ways it still is, but the focus of the episode changes. Still, upon this viewing I found a lot to appreciate in Chris Carter's script- it's intelligent, paranoid as the best of the X-Files tends to be, and creates a genuinely detailed and effective portrait of this small town in just 45 minutes.

"Red Museum" is atmospheric and creepy enough, the acting's good for everyone, the mythology tie-in is handled very well, and the script is strong. The general fan reaction to this episode seems to be 'meh, it's okay' or 'it's good', but I'd go a step further and say that this is an excellent episode, and very enjoyable.

8.5/10

Are members of a bizarre cult taking teenagers, drugging them, doing things to them, and putting them into the woods half naked?

I liked this episode very much, it felt very different to any other episode. Yes it's an X File, but it's a case with a little bit of truth behind it, there has been concern for many years over what kind of treatments and drugs cattle are given, and subsequently the effect those have on people.

It's 26 years later, and the debate still goes on..

Only downside, I thought that the cult were a little bit overdone, they could have toned them down a fraction, and made them a little less.....alien.

Good episode for Mulder and Scully as a solid duo, we are back on track. I would have liked to have known more about the cleaner.

A very good episode with lots of interest, 8/10.

The tenth episode of the second season of "The X-Files," titled "Red Museum," directed by Win Phelps, presents a complex narrative that intertwines themes of cultism, alien experimentation, and societal fears. The episode begins with a series of mysterious kidnappings in the small town of Delta Glen, Wisconsin, where teenagers are found wandering in a disoriented state with the phrases "He is one" or "She is one" scrawled on their backs. This unsettling premise sets the stage for Mulder (David Duchovny) and Scully (Gillian Anderson) to delve into the dark underbelly of the community.

As the agents investigate, they discover that the local Church of the Red Museum, led by Richard Odin (played by Michael McShane), is at the center of the turmoil. Initially suspected of being involved in the abductions, Odin and his followers present themselves as a group of militant vegetarians who believe in "walk-ins," individuals whose souls have been taken over by spirits. The pacing of "Red Museum" is brisk, with Mulder and Scully navigating through various leads while encountering resistance from both the cult members and local law enforcement. The episode effectively builds tension as it explores the dynamics between the community and the church.

Visually, "Red Museum" employs a dark and moody aesthetic that enhances its themes of fear and paranoia. Phelps's direction captures both the eerie atmosphere of the small town and the claustrophobic tension present during Mulder and Scully's investigations. The cinematography highlights the contrast between the serene exterior of Delta Glen and the sinister activities occurring beneath its surface. Critics have noted that while some elements feel familiar, particularly in relation to earlier episodes dealing with cults and conspiracies, "Red Museum" manages to maintain a sense of intrigue throughout.

The performances in this episode are commendable, particularly from Duchovny and Anderson. Duchovny's portrayal of Mulder showcases his characteristic determination as he grapples with his belief in extraterrestrial phenomena while navigating a world filled with skepticism. Anderson's Scully provides a rational counterbalance; her skepticism grounds Mulder's theories while showcasing her investment in uncovering the truth behind the kidnappings. The supporting cast also delivers strong performances, particularly McShane as Odin, who embodies both charisma and underlying menace.

Thematically, "Red Museum" explores critical questions about identity, belief systems, and societal fears surrounding alien encounters. The episode raises important issues regarding how communities respond to perceived threats; it examines the impact of fear on human behavior and relationships within Delta Glen. The presence of alien experimentation is woven into the narrative through references to medical practices involving children, suggesting a darker conspiracy at play. This exploration invites viewers to reflect on their own beliefs regarding authority, truth, and morality in a world filled with uncertainty.

In conclusion, "Red Museum" stands out as an intriguing entry in "The X-Files," successfully blending elements of horror with character-driven drama while addressing significant social issues related to cultism and alien experimentation. While it may not reach the emotional heights of other episodes or fully develop all plot points, it effectively maintains tension and intrigue throughout its runtime. The exploration of fear within a modern context invites viewers to consider their perceptions of community and belief systems.

I can't get enough of X-files in Hickville. It's the perfect combination: ultra-intelligent aliens with country bumpkins. The writers really cranked up the creepiness in this episode. Teens are found wandering around in the woods with mysterious messages on their backs. Meanwhile, a stranger is spying on a family through a peephole inside their house. That's some twisted stuff.

A cult of vegetarians exists in the middle of beef town. The writers excellently portrayed the bigotry against them, which exemplified the fear of the unknown. The cult could have been better utilized, so much potential for additional weirdness.

Towards the end the story begins tripping over its shoelaces. Various aspects are left unexplained by plot holes rather than authentic mystery. Luckily, the episode's strong feeling and great acting make the few story glitches entirely forgivable.

Rumor has it that Red Museum was just going to be a monster-of-the-week episode. Certain things fell through, though, and some myth/arc elements were added to flesh out the episode. So Red Museum is a unique episode that stands by itself but has a little bit of the mythology in it. It's a really good episode that sees the return of Deep Throat's killer. Red Museum does a good job of misdirection. Unfortunately I can't elaborate on it, because that would spoil the episode. The resolution with the crew-cut man, Deep Throat's killer, is a bit disappointing. I was left wanting for a little bit more. I really like the story and the mysterious "S/he is one" that was written on the backs of the victims. It's funny to see Mulder and Scully hunkering down over a set of dripping barbecue ribs. You don't see them eating a whole lot in the series. It seems like it's humorous when they do show it. You don't need to have seen 'The Erlenmeyer Flask' to enjoy this episode, but viewing it beforehand will help you understand Red Museum more.