Gender Bender

Gender Bender' is much better episode than it gets credit for. Little different than regular X-File and the twist ending might seem far-fetched at first, but the build up is good and the episode has nice ominous atmosphere. Wonderfully haunting score helps to improve the atmospheric feel.

This episode also marks first appearance of Nicholas Lea, but not yet as agent Alex Krycek but as Michael, the victim of the gender bendering Marty.

The fourteenth episode of "The X-Files," titled "Gender Bender," directed by Rob Bowman, is a provocative exploration of gender identity, sexuality, and the complexities of human relationships. This episode introduces viewers to a mysterious cult known as The Kindred, who possess the ability to change their gender and are linked to a series of murders following sexual encounters. As agents Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) and Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson) investigate these bizarre occurrences, they confront their own beliefs about sexuality and identity in a narrative that blends horror with social commentary.

The episode opens with a gripping prologue that sets the stage for the unfolding mystery. A couple leaves a nightclub, only for one partner to undergo a shocking transformation after a sexual encounter, resulting in death and chaos. This chilling start effectively establishes an atmosphere of danger and intrigue. As Mulder and Scully delve deeper into the investigation, they discover that the victims were all connected to The Kindred, a religious sect that embodies both traditional values and radical beliefs about gender fluidity. The pacing is brisk, allowing for moments of tension while also providing insight into Mulder's fascination with the case and Scully's skepticism.

Visually, "Gender Bender" maintains the series' signature aesthetic, utilizing shadows and dim lighting to create an unsettling ambiance. Bowman's direction builds suspense effectively; scenes where Mulder interacts with members of The Kindred are particularly impactful, showcasing their eerie rituals and enigmatic behavior. The cinematography captures both the vibrant nightlife of the city and the more sterile environments associated with the cult, creating a stark contrast that enhances the narrative's tension. However, some critics have noted that certain plot points feel predictable or lack depth, particularly regarding how quickly Mulder connects his findings to the cult's practices.

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. The guest performances by Brent Hinkley as Brother Andrew and Amanda Pays as a member of The Kindred add layers to the story; they effectively convey both allure and danger, enhancing the episode's tension.

Thematically, "Gender Bender" explores complex issues surrounding sexuality and identity in a way that was particularly bold for its time. The ability of The Kindred to change genders serves as a metaphor for societal anxieties surrounding sexual fluidity and the fear of the unknown. This exploration raises critical questions about how society perceives gender roles and sexual orientation, inviting viewers to reflect on their own beliefs. Additionally, Scully's interactions with Brother Andrew highlight her internal struggle between professional skepticism and personal curiosity about attraction; this dynamic adds depth to her character as she navigates her feelings in an unfamiliar context.

In conclusion, "Gender Bender" stands out as an ambitious entry in "The X-Files," successfully blending elements of horror with psychological drama while tackling themes that remain relevant today. 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 gender identity within a modern context invites viewers to reflect on their perceptions of sexuality and societal norms, setting a precedent for future episodes that balance levity with deeper themes.

Gender Bender sexes things up a bit for the x-files. This episode has an interesting premise, a good story, but an ending that is wanting. Gender Bender is also the x-files debut for actor Nicholas Lea, better known as Alex Krycek. In this episode he plays Michael, a man attacked by one of "The Kindred". You need to see this episode just to see Nic Lea's less than spectacular beginning. An interesting thing about the Kindred's "power of seduction". When Marty does it to his victims, they become turned onto him/her. However, when Andrew seduces Scully, she only because disoriented and groggy, and does not become attracted to Andrew. Maybe it's because Marty has more experience at it than Andrew. This episode reminds me of why it would sometimes be miserable to film up in British Columbia. Throughout the episode it is so wet, soggy, and muddy, it could not have been that much fun. Despite the disappointing ending, Gender Bender is still a decent episode to view.

"Gender Bender", the only X-Files script ever written by Paul and Larry Barber, is a mildly interesting mediocrity. There's some cheesy scenes and a silly plot, but it never becomes aggravatingly annoying as several season one episodes do. That doesn't mean it's particularly good either. The script is bland and flat, but I simply do not see what so many people hate about this episode, outside of the overused 'dangerous succubus' angle. The ending doesn't work as we learned more about extraterrestrial life later on in the series, but it worked at the time as a sort of Twilight Zone twist on things.

This episode is notable for two reasons: Nicholas Lea makes his debut, not as Krycek, but it's still the first episode he was in, and frequent X-Files director Rob Bowman makes his debut. One of the reasons this episode gets a 5/10 from me instead of a 4/10 is Bowman's work. It's always good, and it was the start of a working relationship hugely beneficial to Bowman's career and to The X-Files' visual aesthetic.

5/10

If I'm a die-hard fan of "Twin peaks", "Married with children", early "Baywatch", "Mister Bean", nonetheless "X-files" is the number one because it's the more challenging. For a bachelor with a monotonous job in a conservative, old country, X-files is an incredible breath of air. With each show, it's a new setting, a new case and nearly a new example of paranormal. It's like there is an Earth-2 somewhere because UFOs, ghosts never get the headlines in my country. We may maybe add an Earth-3 as well because the black, corrupt government that hides truth form its citizens is another dark file that's never get publicized for sure. So that's the genius of this show to mix paranormal with conspiracy.

Next, X-files is a wonderful trip into America (yes i know it was shot in Vancouver...): it's the Hamish farm, the high tech building, the desert base, the dark woods, the cozy suburb. It's the same thing about people: Indians, disabled people, hobos, simple families, workers, believers, i think each minorities have the spotlight here. In other words, it's a very humanist naturalist, show that offers something else that capitalist life, eternal guns violence about bad guys.

Then, there are a terrific outstanding talented behind: the effects are amazing, simple but effective. The light is amazing. In a way, this TV show is like mini movies and the episodes are much worthy and interesting than the actual senseless blockbusters! Funnily, they can tell brilliantly in 43 minutes what the 120 minutes movie fail to entertain!

Last but not least, the cast: to put my feeling in paranormal term, i think it's because the three of us are Lions. David is from the 7th, Gilian the 9th and me, the 12th. In all cases, we are all a bit of calm with strong loud beliefs, hotly passionate with dry humor, mixing extraordinarily with some and almost close for others. So, i relate very well with this couple of loners and the sexual tension between them is the more elastic of any other show.

Now, the good question: how i discovered the show? It appears that this first season has been first aired on 1994 Sundays in France and i remember to have catch one by accident then, maybe "Tooms" or "Lazarus". It's sure that i couldn't see the end because i was with my parents then and the dinner was made for 19h! Later, I saw the first four episodes because i bought the VHS tape. Then, I know a lot of others as well ("Ice", "Darkness falls", NJ devil"). Did my brother tape them or were they a rerun, I can't remember! I'm pretty sure that this DVD session is the first time i see them all because some were totally unknown ("born again", "roland", "young at heart").

I pick this "gender bender" episode for this season just because i have always been disturbed by strange communities. One alien, one vampire, one werewolf are easy to confront but when it's the entire village that turn against you, there aren't no easy escape.