The X-Files: Squeeze (1.3)

One of the eeriest, most original X-Files episodes, Squeeze was the series' first foray into monster-of-the-week territory, successfully steering away from the UFO/alien-type storylines that could have easily been done every week, and creates the first in a long-line of imaginative, memorable bad guys.

The best thing about the episode is undoubtedly Doug Hutchison's chilling performance as Eugene Tooms. He has hardly any lines but is truly unsettling throughout. From his mannerisms, his eyes, to his silent glares, Hutchison brings to life what could have been a slightly unspectacular opponent for Mulder and Scully and gives such a good performance that the writers unsurprisingly ended up asking him back later in the season.

The investigation moves along at a steady pace and there's a genuine sense of urgency as the leads have to capture him before he kills his fifth victim. Squeeze also taps into a familiar fear, of your sanctuary of home being invaded by an unstoppable force. The fact that Tooms can literally squeeze into any surroundings and get in through the smallest of cracks creates a terrifying nemesis which easily scares the beejesus out of the viewer.

The only annoyance is the direction by Harry Longstreet. The frantic editing and dramatic camera pans expose the show's low budget, and some of Tooms' attacks look a little corny, but these are tiny complaints in an episode which is mostly perfect. Featuring a classic bad guy, an intriguing M.O. and some excellent performances, Squeeze is one of the finest hours of The X-Files and a great indication of things to come. Rating A

Credits
Guest stars Doug Hutchison (Eugene Tooms); Donal Logue (Agent Tom Colton); Henry Beckman (Detective Frank Briggs)
Writers Glen Morgan, James Wong Director Harry Longstreet