1X02 - Squeeze

Summary

If I'd had the chance to catch this episode when it first aired, I might have become one of those "fans since the first season". This was an excellent example of what an X-File could be: imaginative and original premise, interesting characterizations and strangely enough, not so far-out that it tests that all-important suspension of disbelief. Yes, it seems odd to say that, but perhaps it's a testament to the overall quality of the early episodes. So well done that I could believe in an elastic-bodied, liver-eating mutant who goes into hibernation between meals. (Strange how I couldn't later believe in a pregnancy that went on for over a year...)

Creepy in a “non Donny Pfaster” way

In the intervening years since I first saw this episode, I have learned a lot more about Mr. Hutchison than I care to know, making his portrayal of Eugene Victor Tooms (serial killers go by their whole names) all the more disturbing. That aside, this episode was one of Glen Morgan and James Wong’s best TXF contributions.

Speaking of disturbing, that scene of Tooms diving out of the vent to clutch at Scully’s legs? One of the great ones for the TXF history books. There is just so much to enjoy about this episode, from the introduction of one of the FBI’s most ambitious (Tom Colton) to the stranger than strange case file itself. It wasn’t perfect – in fact, some of the math involved in figuring out the retired cop’s involvement in the previous cases will have you shaking your head – but it kept your interest all the way through and left you wanting more (thus came Tooms).

This being only the third episode in the series, we also learn from it. We learn that Fox Mulder is almost always right (but, unfortunately, also that most people seem to think he’s off his rocker), that Dana Scully is a principled, loyal friend and partner, and that the show itself is not afraid to take chances with the outrageous and the creepy.

We also got some great (and admittedly, some not so great) dialogue and interactions.

For example, this from Mulder: “You may not always agree with me, but at least you respect the journey.” This becomes the standard road marker for the remainder of Mulder and Scully’s TXF travels.

But then there was this from Colton (also to Scully): “. . . you were a good agent, but now after Mulder, I couldn't have you far enough away.” Seems a bit childish, as was all of the snickering behind Mulder’s back. Portrayals of other law enforcement agents was never The X-Files’ strong point, as we find out over the course of the series.

Picayune Peculiarities

As wonderful as that next to final sequence was, any sensible adherence to actual time was once again sacrificed. Mulder arriving at 66 Exeter and subsequently finding Scully’s necklace and then his frantic drive to her place seemed to be occurring at the same time as Scully finding out that Tooms was in her apartment. Unless they were a block apart, that was a highly unlikely sequence of events.

Best or Worst Moment

Mulder and Scully go into dark places and find smelly, gooey stuff. And they still manage to be flirty and stylish. How can you top that?

Original Rating: * * * *
Revised Rating: * * * *