The X-Files: Two Fathers (6.11)

Sometimes it does surprise me that The X-Files still manages to get mileage out of what are arguably some of the most tired ideas around. Black oil, the conspiracies, the CSM, Krycek. It's all so routine and predictable now that when an episode comes along that actually wins me over using the exact same elements, it's worthy of considerable attention. Two Fathers is a ridiculously entertaining mythology episode, book-ended by an intriguing framing device, littered with absorbing power play, and featuring some squicky face-ripping antics which everybody should somehow enjoy. Heh.

I'm enjoying the dynamic between the CSM and Agent Spender. I still find William B. Davis insufferable, but both actors managed to convey the feel of a relationship that is almost expected to work, but somehow can't. They're father and son, but with Spender slowly working out that his father is not only so different to him, but somebody so ruthless and disturbed. At the end of it all, Spender is a man who just wants the best for his mother, and is rattled that his allegiances may be better served with Mulder rather than his own flesh and blood.

At the same time, Veronica Cartwright is great as Cassandra. I loved her fiery spark in her first scene with Scully, as well as her unhinged nuttiness in that final cliffhanger at the end of the episode. The last-minute cameo from Mimi Rogers felt like one of those traditionally awkward 'secretly evil' reveals that this show blows at, but I like her as an actress so I'm eager to see where that story will go.

Two Fathers doesn't grant Mulder and Scully a whole lot to do, but the guest stars successfully carry the episode on their shoulders instead. We get a couple of revelations, the machinations inside the Syndicate are well explored, and there's a true sense of threat radiating throughout the hour. Surprisingly great. B+

Credits
Guest stars William B. Davis (The Cigarette-Smoking Man); Chris Owens (Jeffrey Spender); Nicholas Lea (Alex Krycek); Mitch Pileggi (Walter Skinner); Veronica Cartwright (Cassandra Spender); Nick Tate (Dr. Eugene Openshaw); George Murdock (Elder #2); Don S. Williams (Elder #1); Al Ruscio (Elder #4); Frank Ertl (Elder #5); James Newman (Doctor)
Writers Chris Carter, Frank Spotnitz Director Kim Manners