An intriguing exercise in characters finding simple solutions to what, on the surface, looks like a huge problem, Shadows is in no way a classic, but it's a reasonably exciting X-File with the requisite amount of scares and intrigue for a case-of-the-week episode this early in the show's life.This episode puts a lot more effort into establishing the main guest star than any of the previous episodes did, something which makes Lauren's plight a lot more sympathetic. Lisa Waltz gives an impressive performance as the woman at the center of the case and goes through several different states of emotion throughout the hour, creating an unusually multi-dimensional guest character.
The direction by Michael Katleman was also impressive, in particular the excellent camerawork used for when Lauren is attacked in her home by the assassins-for-hire. Special effects are used sparingly but, when they are, look great, in particular when the female assassin is being strangled.
Scully's absence from the scene whenever there's something supernatural happening is the only downpoint of the episode. It's only six episodes in and it's already getting contrived. How she's conveniently outside the room on both occasions of invisible attack is more than a little far-fetched.
Shadows moves along at a steady pace and manages to be pretty involving, even if the episode itself is a little forgettable. Rating B+
Credits
Guest stars Barry Primus (Robert Dorlund); Lisa Waltz (Lauren Kyte)
Writers Glen Morgan, James Wong Director Michael Katleman
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