Fallen Angel

Most of the Howard Gordon episodes never really tickled my fancy. Often they were re-treads of superior precedents ("Firewalker"), or centered around ideas too underdeveloped to carry an episode on their own, and thus cushioned by wanton detours into the mythology arc ("Avatar," "Teliko"). So it's interesting to see his name attached to one of the original mythology scripts – the third chronological mytharc script to be exact – "Fallen Angel," a much more competent work in a largely uneven premiere season.

Like most of the other season one mythology eps, the story is independent of future plot threads (excluding a two-part sequel that wouldn't air until the latter half of season four) and introduces UFO geek Max Fenig, played seamlessly by Scott Bellins, who Mulder meets upon being detained in an alleged restricted toxic spill site. Obviously there is more going on here than meets the eye, with a conspiracy of silence and indignant superiors still trying to eliminate Mulder from the X-Files. Fenig seems to be the missing piece of the puzzle, as a singular scar behind his ear leads Mulder to believe he may be an abductee.

I didn't care for this episode upon first viewing. I can't be certain whether it was the unusual pacing (the traditional two-parters wouldn't commence until season two) or just the fact that my taste buds were still soured from the previous episode. After three or four viewings, however, the strong characterization and guest acting won me over. Bellins captures a congenial awkwardness in his role very reminiscent of the then-imminent Lone Gunmen, and Marshall Bell is perfect as the nasty, callous general. It is a shame this character wasn't used in later episodes. Jerry Hardin reprises his role as the original Deep Throat in a closing scene that expands his character in more interesting directions.

Some of the soundtrack choices Mark Snow employs are quite curious. There is a score in the warehouse scene that sounds fit for a holdover 80s crime-drama. I'm not certain if it was used in any other episodes but it sounds kind of cheesy. The special effects in this scene are also very dated, but forgivable considering the time frame. It is interesting that the invisible alien creature is not used in later episodes, making this one seem further detached from the mythology.

This is a laudable Gordon/Gansa effort that fits in somewhat into the mythology puzzle, but unfortunately is barely touched upon in later years. In a way it can be considered a standalone, and in that category it surpasses most of the scripts Gordon would go on to write without Gansa. "Fallen Angel" is most notable for the introduction of Fenig, and also for providing a shadowy mystique that only the earliest mytharc scripts seemed to be able to do.

The tenth episode of "The X-Files," titled "Fallen Angel," directed by Larry Shaw, is a compelling exploration of government conspiracy and the complexities of extraterrestrial encounters. This episode introduces viewers to the character of Max Fenig, played by Scott Bellis, who becomes a pivotal figure in the narrative as he navigates his own experiences with UFOs and abductions. The plot revolves around the crash of a UFO and the subsequent cover-up by military officials, leading agents Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) and Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson) to uncover the truth behind the incident.

The episode opens with a gripping prologue that sets the stage for the unfolding mystery. A military operation is depicted, revealing the aftermath of a downed UFO and the chaos that ensues when soldiers are exposed to an unknown force. This chilling start effectively establishes an atmosphere of tension and intrigue that permeates the rest of the episode. As Mulder and Scully investigate, they encounter Max, who believes that he has been targeted by government forces due to his knowledge of extraterrestrial life. The pacing is well-structured, allowing for moments of suspense while also providing insight into Mulder's motivations and his obsession with uncovering hidden truths.

Visually, "Fallen Angel" maintains the eerie aesthetic characteristic of "The X-Files." The cinematography effectively utilizes shadows and dim lighting to create a sense of unease, particularly during scenes where Mulder confronts military personnel about their cover-up efforts. Shaw's direction builds suspense throughout; scenes where Max describes his experiences with alien encounters are particularly impactful, capturing both wonder and dread. However, some critics have noted that certain plot points feel formulaic or lack depth, particularly regarding how quickly Mulder connects his findings to Max's claims about government conspiracies.

The performances in this episode are strong, especially from Duchovny and Anderson. Duchovny's portrayal of Mulder captures his characteristic charm and enthusiasm for uncovering hidden truths; he embodies a sense of urgency that drives the narrative forward. Anderson's Scully provides a rational counterbalance; her skepticism grounds Mulder's wild theories while showcasing her growing curiosity about their cases. Bellis delivers a compelling performance as Max Fenig, effectively conveying his vulnerability as well as his passion for uncovering the truth about UFOs. His character serves as a tragic figure caught in the crossfire of larger conspiracies, adding emotional weight to the story.

Thematically, "Fallen Angel" delves into issues of trust and control within both personal and societal contexts. Max serves as a representation of those who have been marginalized by society due to their beliefs; he embodies the human cost of conspiracy theories and government secrecy. The episode raises critical questions about what happens when individuals challenge authority in pursuit of truth and how far they are willing to go to expose hidden agendas. Additionally, it highlights Mulder's ongoing quest for understanding in a world filled with uncertainty; his willingness to believe Max underscores his commitment to uncovering the truth about extraterrestrial life.

In conclusion, "Fallen Angel" stands out as an engaging entry in "The X-Files," successfully blending elements of science fiction with psychological drama while deepening character dynamics between Mulder and Scully. While it may not reach the emotional heights of later episodes or fully develop all plot points, it effectively maintains tension and intrigue throughout its runtime. The exploration of government conspiracy within a modern context invites viewers to reflect on their perceptions of authority and knowledge, setting a precedent for future episodes that balance levity with deeper themes.

The episode opens with a deputy sheriff encountering the crash scene of a UFO near Townsend, Wisconsin, what he believes to be just forest wire. He responds accordingly by asking for a fire screw dispatch to the scene. He gets out of the car to investigate. At the same time the US Space Surveillance Center in Colorado detects the activity and, upon analyzing the data, establish the crashed aircraft to be unidentified due to its nature of manoeuvre prior to the crash. In charge of the military reclamation's division is Colonel Calvin Henderson. Upon the technicians' briefing on the data, and to their bewilderment, the Colonel's orders are clear: 'What you tracked was a meteor. The aberrant movement was obviously to instrument malfunction.' They know the truth and he knows the truth: it's a UFO, but the elephant in the room remains ignored.

Later Agent Mulder and Deep Throat have a meeting during which Deep Throat advises Mulder to act quickly, suggesting a time frame of just about 24 hours before the Air Force cleans up the scene and seal the evidence.

Of course Agent Mulder couldn't let this one slip by, so he gets to investigate. He travels to the crash scene, dressed in plain clothes, and equipped with a camera and plenty of film.

His spying mission gets interrupted as one of the military personnel surprises him from the back.

Later, in detention, he meets another wannabe reporter by the name of Max Fenig, an odd character and an NICAP (National Investigations Committee On Aerial Phenomena) member, who was also caught sniffing around for some capture. As Scully later arrives to retrieve Mulder, she tells him that FBI Section Chief Joseph McGrath is threatening to shut down the X-Files because of his unauthorized investigation.

Up until this point it wasn't clear as to what direction the show would take. Of course there was insidious government involvement in shady affairs, and it goes without saying that we were strapped in for an unusual TV show from the get-go. However, the alien stuff didn't really kick in prior to this episode, which, of course, came just in time before the viewers became disinterested. The show had started to develop a theme. Even though it was a preconceived one by the creator Chris Carter, he didn't really succeed initially, but, nonetheless, the spooky ambiance and the premise was there all along.

In Fallen Angel the aliens conspiracy was kind of beginning to transpire, although we are left to our own imagination and speculation as to what the heck's going on and if there were really any aliens and alien aircraft involved in the first place. This paved the road to further development while keeping the suspense high.

As with most X File cases this one is filled with speculations and doubts, dubiousness and skepticism against Mulder's theories and beliefs. It doesn't help his case much since we're almost convinced that the truth could be much different. This is what makes The X Files such a great show- the absence of obvious and immediate answer. That's how the real governments work and that's what we've been asking for a long time. The truth is out there, but will we reveal it?

A UFO crashes, releasing a malevolent Alien force, Murder risks his job and the future of The X Files by ignoring restrictions and investigating.

This episode starts with a bang, it's dramatic, explosive and terrifying, this episode is a bit of a pot boiler though, it's somewhat of a heavy political episode. After a dramatic start, it becomes a little pedestrian in terms of pacing.

They are becoming guilty of threatening Mulder's career too often. Scully is a little inconsistent here.

Max Fenig is an interesting character, his scenes with Mulder were great.

Usually any episodes of the x-files which involve U.F.O's are comprised of solid acting,quality script and plenty of tension all the way to excite the viewer.This episode from season one is no different.A genuinely interesting character alien abductee Max Fening makes an appearance and appears to be a huge fan of Mulders.Mulder acting on information from the mysterious Deep Throat sets about finding the pilot who crashed an unidentified flying object.The ending sequence has to be seen and is truly fantastic to watch over and over again.The ascension itself is a visual treat and leaves Mulder finally with tangible evidence to back up his beliefs.