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Want to get the news updates by e-mail? Check out X-Files Season 8 Newsflash.
8/22/2001
Well hello there. The reason for this sudden update is not to catch up on the news in the past 2 1/2 months, which I'm not even going to attempt, but to say goodbye. Everyone who has visited this site in the past year or so knows that the updates became less and less frequent, not at all because of a loss of interest in TXF, but because I have tons of other things to do. This is the last news update of my site. I planned for a long time to stop running the site at the end of the 8th season, so this isn't a last-minute thing. I would like to thank all the supportive visitors to this site and especially those who were around since the beginning. I'm leaving all the pages and images up, and I know that some images are no longer accessible. E-mail me if you want a certain picture--just tell me the filename. Also, I will continue to update the Mythology section. I just did another update earlier this month, incorporating "all things" into the pregnancy storyline. The updates won't be regular or frequent, but my goal was always to have an explanation of the latest developments in the mythology. That includes season 9 and beyond, if that happens, and any other movies. So I might only update once the season is over, or maybe after the February multi-parter, or whatever. And I'll log updates in the Site Updates page as always. I'll be watching season 9 and I hope everyone gives it a fair chance.
Signing off,
A. Guess
6/12/2001 *Updated*
REST OF UPDATE: Where did I leave off? Action figure collectors rejoice: "Moore Action Collectibles, Inc. is excited to announce its newest license recently acquired from Twentieth Century Fox Licensing & Merchandising (Fox L&M), The X-Files. MAC will work in conjunction with Fox L&M and Ten Thirteen Productions to produce the upcoming X-Files action figure series. 'We are so pleased to have the opportunity to be a part of such a long-running, successful property, which The X-Files has proven to be,' says MAC's CEO, Clayburn Moore. 'We are very optimistic about the recent changes on the show, and we are looking forward to contributing to the success of both new and established characters through the product we release.'" Finally, I have a whole bunch of print ads and TLG Internet banner ads and stuff: "Alone", "Essence", "Existence" (plus the color ad's front and inside), "All About Yves", and banner ads 1, 2, 3, and 4 (for the comic book!). Plus here's a picture of the cool finale promo billboard outside the Fox lot in L.A.; here's a new TXF print ad with Mulder, Scully, AND Doggett; and here's the 2001 Emmy consideration ad.
I'm still alive! Apologies for seeming to have abandoned the site. In addition to being busy before the summer, I was also sick. So it's catch-up time. First and foremost, thanks to everyone who has inquired about the Mythology section of the site. Yes, I will update it through "Existence" soon. "Patience" everyone! Anyway, the most important news of recent days is that David Duchovny has repeatedly said NO CAMEOS next year. He's done for good except for the possible movie sequel. So how are they going to write him into the background without even a goodbye scene? That's the big question about season 9. At least for me, this makes it even more interesting. DD also had an interesting quote on the finale: "Yes, I did finally kiss Gillian. Originally, I was supposed to kiss her on the forehead. I said, 'Come on, we've been teasing for so long, let's have a real kiss. Let's make it a romantic ending.'" Also, just today there is more news about the Millennium movie: "Lance Henriksen, working in the Vancouver area to film and promote his upcoming feature film The Untold, recently granted Canadian talk show host Vicky Gabereau an interview. When asked about his relationship with Millennium creator Chris Carter, who started and maintains the Ten Thirteen Productions base in Vancouver, Lance reportedly stated that he 'was very much looking forward to shooting an upcoming feature film version of the show.' Regardless of how definite the production of a Millennium motion picture is at this point, it is increasingly obvious that the two principal talents involved, Chris Carter and Lance Henriksen, are absolutely enthusiastic about the supposed project." With that news also comes an explanation of Thomas J. Wright's absence from directing in season 8: he was helming the film Unspeakable, also starring Lance Henriksen. And, the XF rerun schedule has changed. After "Within" last Sunday, it seems that they are pre-empted until further notice. But there is also the possibility that some episodes will be shown on Fridays during the summer. Speaking of which, Fox aired the lost 1LGM11 episode (written by Vince, John, and Frank and directed by Carol Banker, yes the female director Vince mentioned in his chat), still untitled but known as "The Cap'n Toby Show," June 1 at 8 p.m. This is also the new time for Friday reruns this summer, which are happening thanks to the massive fan response to the show's cancellation. Fans can make a difference! The pilot aired last Friday, followed by "Bond, Jimmy Bond" this Friday and "Madam I'm Adam" June 22. As-yet-undetermined episodes will also air on July 13, 20, & 27 and August 3 & 10. BTW the Cap'n Toby episode has to have had the best plot of the whole show. What a class act. Those wondering what's happening now that the cliffhanger can't be resolved on the show don't worry: an XF episode next season will continue the finale and send off Jimmy and Yves.
In TLG OS news, it just recently posted a list of songs used in each episode, under the individual ep pages. And how about that finale! "Existence," I believe, is the most nail-biting, suspenseful episode ever, surpassing (for me) "Redux II." The last segment was incredible, with the intercut car chase and Scully giving birth. Great job by Kim Manners and all the actors. And the final scene, Mulder's last, is one to remember. The religious imagery was a great culmination of all the themes developing in the past few seasons, and I felt a sense of closure even if the pregnancy explanation was still left somewhat open. Definitely one of the best finales ever. The Nielsen rating for the ep was 10.2/15, following a 9.0/13 for the previous week. The finale creamed the competition in 18-49, including The Sopranos. A great performance all around. On to merchandise news: the season 7 ep guide, all things, was postponed to a July 12 release. Also, from David Yeldon: "The next U.K. video release will be titled 'Deadalive' (containing 8X14-15).
Here is the big news--it is this release, not 'Existence,' that will be the
first to have a DVD version! They are both to be released on August 6,
2001 (cat. numbers 22275S and 22275DVD)." Starting with this, all the foreign video releases will be on both VHS and DVD.
Sources: Haven for the FBI's Most Unwanted, The Lone Gunmen at TV Tome, and The Millennial Abyss.
5/19/2001
Ouch, it's been a long time since last update. Well the big news is that there will be a season 9, no big surprise there. Everyone's on board except DD, who it looks like won't be in the season at all except maybe a few cameo roles like in "Within," "Per Manum," etc. What scares me more than DD's absence is that Chris Carter's role on the show next year may not be that of executive producer. It is still not known whether he will continue to be showrunner or if he will continue in an executive consultant position, with Frank Spotnitz and Vince Gilligan continuing as the showrunning executive producers. And nothing against them, but I would seriously start to have second thoughts about a season 9 if CC stayed in the background. DD has been gradually phased out so it's not like his absence will be a big difference. There has to be a singular behind-the-scenes vision. That's just my two cents. And not to worry: Gillian will be in every episode next season. However, The Lone Gunmen was left in the dark: it was unfortunately canceled, although how much more could we have expected from Fox? The most we can hope for is resolution to the cliffhanger (in the finale, written by Vince, Frank, and John & directed by Bryan Spicer) next season on TXF. Anyway, "Essence" was much better than I expected. Billy Miles is an incredible badass, and we now have a new killing method for the aliens. Plus we have an apparent explanation of what Scully's baby is and why she was being monitored--but we still don't know how it came to be. The episode expertly wrapped up several storylines (including why the pregnancy hasn't really been mentioned since "Per Manum") and packed in the action, making for a great start to the finale and a great cliffhanger. "Alone," I thought, wasn't that good as a standalone, but the fan tribute made it more than worthwhile. The only real interesting part of the story was the progressive blindness. The references to the movie and previous episodes were great fun, and the character of Leyla Harrison was well-written. And Frank did a good job of directing although several scenes seemed to be overdone.
In LG OS news, the Langly, Frohike, and Byers desktops were finally added. The XF OS also has new wallpapers from "Essence." And this is from Dean Haglund in his recent chat about his site: "I'm revamping and redesigning the whole site. I closed it down because I had lost the ability to connect with my fans, which is why I started the site in the first place. I had a webmaster who was moderating traffic and I felt removed from the whole process. So I'm looking at designing something where I can answer e-mail more efficiently while still shooting 14 hours a day. If anybody has that piece of software, just let me know!" Incidentally, Dean is credited as co-producer of Bridget Jones's Diary. Moving on to merchandise news, the season 4 DVD set is scheduled for November 20. I received my season 3 set, and it's fantastic (especially the two commentary tracks). Also coming soon is a TINH video in Australia which will include the title episode plus "DeadAlive," but not "Three Words." Also "Essence" and "Existence" are set for release on DVD in the U.K. Here's info on another would-be Australian video release: "Another video scheduled for release this May was a 'Special Edition: Per Manum' video release containing last week's 'Per Manum' episode and commentary on its importance to the show. However I contacted Fox in the U.K. last week and they said that this video has been canceled (it was originally to be released over there as a phone-in video, even the promo posters had already been distributed) so we will have to wait for this one." Finally, the good ol' Lone Gunmen will be in tomorrow's finale, plus Knowle Rohrer, Kersh, Billy Miles, Crane, Skinner, and Krycek. ENJOY!!! Can't wait. More news coming soon.
4/30/2001
OK, I'm still here. So what's been happening since the last update.... Well, "Empedocles" and "Vienen" aired. I was both shocked and overjoyed that they actually tied up that pesky loose end of "Piper Maru" vs. "Tunguska" black oil. Yeeeah. A bottle show/Mulder and Scully split up/mythology/standalone/scarefest/gorefest all rolled into one, that actually has lasting repercussions on the show. Mulder, after eight years of constant insubordination, was finally fired. It's a wonder he lasted this long, and it made for a great ending. I was also glad to see Luke Doggett revisited and the four-agent dynamic work in "Empedocles." Here are the "Vienen" and "Empedocles" print ads. Anyway, here's more on "Essence": "Mulder, Doggett and Skinner try to protect Scully and her unborn child when Billy Miles, an alien/human hybrid, starts a murderous rampage." And "Existence" "will finally reveal the long-kept secrets behind Scully's mysterious pregnancy, including the paternity." There has also been a summer schedule change; "Redrum" and "Patience" have been replaced by "Patience" and "Roadrunners" respectively. BTW I also have more info on other CC projects: "He also plans, sometime this summer, to write the first of two novels for Bantam Books." So he's still going to finish them. Also: "And then there's the Carter Foundation, begun last year, which has issued several thousand dollars in scholarships to needy college freshmen who intend to pursue a science major. Carter plans to double the amount this year."
In TLG news, this week's episode with Skinner, "The Lying Game," is written by Nandi Bowe whom Vince mentioned in his chat looooong ago, and directed by Richard Compton. Here's the print ad. "Tango de los Pistoleros" was written by Thomas Schnauz and directed by Bryan Spicer, and "Diagnosis: Jimmy" (1LGM08) was written by John Shiban and directed by Spicer. The finale, "All About Yves," is actually 1LGM11; the season is 12 episodes long including the pilot, not excluding it. So there are only 2 more left. We've heard already that the finale will have a surprise Mulder appearance; this is also the episode with Morris Fletcher in it (and Kimmy the Geek again). BTW in a recent chat, Tom Braidwood said: "I would love to write an episode. As a matter of fact, I've been working on one with a friend." Anyway the LG OS added the links to each character's page, including one for Jimmy. But except for his page, the others are "coming soon," along with the non-Flash version of the site. Dean Haglund also has a chat coming up May 10 at 8 p.m. EST.
Speaking of the OS, the XF OS had an Annabeth Gish chat recently (thanks Langly!), and the transcript should be up soon. The OS also posted a link to The Futon Critic, a TV site, with a call for fans to write columns on why their favorite show should be renewed. A subtle hint was given with a picture of TLG. There's also a link to a DVD contest at The Digital Bits. And speaking of sites, the new XF fan club site, although pretty lame right now, is at www.cinescape.com/fanclubxfiles/. Moving on to merchandise news, the official store linked at the OS is having some special deals: "The X-Files section at the Fox Online Store has weekly specials on merchandise through the month of May. April 23-April 29: Commuter Mug; April 30-May 6: Rubber Patch Cap; May 7-May 13: Gunmetal Watch in Canister; May 14-May 20: Youth Ringer T-Shirt; May 21-May 27: Stainless Sports Bottle." The 2002 XF calendar is available for preorder already. It's 24 pages as usual and should be out in August. Finally, this is from Al: "Let me tell you now that, thanks to an e-mail by me (now that's cocky!), Extreme CD will consider releasing all 9 episodes of HR at an affordable price to be viewed on your very own PC. Go to their site at http://www.extremecd.com and also e-mail them (ecdsales@extremecd.com) saying that you'd like to see the series on that format. Hey, the DVD Petition wasn't so successful so let's start here." This is not an official release but it's a start.
Source: Haven for the FBI's Most Unwanted
4/12/2001
TXF wrapped shooting for the season a while back and still there's no news on "Existence"! I actually think this is good, because obviously some big things are going to happen in the finale that will be big surprises. 1013 really tightened security for the ep. And no, "Existence," the finale, is not two hours long. Both it and "Essence" are one hour each, and together the two-parter constitutes a two-hour finale. Kim Manners directed both parts and CC wrote both, as with the premiere eps. Now that that's figured out, after watching the fantastic "Three Words" I've decided it really is part 3 of 3. So I'll change that back in the pages. My favorite scene for some reason was Absalom's jailbreak. Did anyone notice that he was a sort of temporary CSM replacement for these episodes? His lines would have certainly belonged to him if he were still alive, or whatever.... We also have a Super Mulder on our hands, who is royally pissed about his abduction and is trying harder than ever to get the truth out. Whew. In other episode info, "Empedocles" is supposed to be excellent, and it further explains Doggett's son. Reyes approaches Mulder about the unsolved case and they find a connection between young Luke Doggett and the killer they are tracking. Also Frank sent me a scoop--in the Feb. 27 L.A. Times, CC hinted that if Mulder returns in a 9th season, he'll be in about half the number of episodes he was in this season. That works out to around 6. Finally in XF episode info, the OS posted the first of the summer rerun schedule. "Requiem" airs June 3, followed by "Within," "Without," "Redrum," and "Patience," in that order, on consecutive Sundays.
Also from the OS: "The X-Files has been nominated for Best Network Television Series in the 27th Annual Saturn Awards which recognizes science fiction, fantasy and horror in film and television. Robert and Gillian were also both named in the Best Actor and Actress on Television categories. The awards will be announced June 12th." The OS also posted LG casting info: Darren Burrows from "Monday" will play convicted murderer Douglas Pfeiffer in "Maximum Byers." And this is a first, the OS posted two wallpapers, one each from "Empedocles" and "Vienen." There are also pictures from upcoming episodes at the site. For even more pictures--from the set--check out the awesome Robert Patrick Experience. Back to LG info, last week's great episode, "Planet of the Frohikes," was written by Vince Gilligan and directed by 1013 newcomer (and I hope he'll stick around) John T. Kretchmer. The ratings for that ep: 3.6/6, basically the same as the previous week. The finale hype should improve things. This week's ep "Maximum Byers" was written by Vince Gilligan & Frank Spotnitz and directed by NYPD Blue's Vincent Misiano. The LG finale is called "All About Yves" and the secret guest is...MULDER! No joke: "Duchovny also makes a guest appearance in that episode, as Mulder has an inadvertent rendezvous with the Gunmen's partner, Jimmy Bond." 1LGM11 is called "Diagnosis: Jimmy": "Amnesiac Jimmy fears his doctor may be a wanted criminal." The ep features John Walsh also. Thanks elwood! Here's some weird news: "There were some angry snarls on the Delphi Fox Forum boards about local broadcasts of The Lone Gunmen being pre-empted for baseball. Fans were particularly concerned that this will affect the show's Nielsen ratings." But there's always a light at the end of the tunnel: check out this cool site which is lobbying to keep TLG on the air. Also by the same person is this site which is trying to get Harsh Realm on DVD. In a similar vein, this site is fighting for Millennium DVD sets. Thanks elwood again! On the topic of HR, I found this synopsis of the unfilmed episode "Circe": "Hobbes, searching for a resistance group, meets a woman who claims to be his lover."
Source: The Lone Gunmen at TV Tome
4/3/2001
Just two items today...first the "Three Words" print ad. The other thing: check the XF OS for a link to a USA Today online poll on which shows should be renewed next year. Y'all know what to do. And yes, XF is back, friends. You know, of all the possible explanations for Mulder's (second? third?) resurrection, they pick the most unexpected and out-there one and make it make complete sense within the mytharc logic. I love it when they do that. Mythology explanation update coming soon. So...I think any Doggett haters still out there after "DeadAlive" are missing something. I mean, that look in the garage scene...what a badass!
Source: Haven for the FBI's Most Unwanted
4/1/2001
Here's a newsbreak from an anonymous source: "...There are going to be Lone Gunmen ads in the entertainment sections of USA Today, the NY Times and the LA Times next week that contain 'secret'
words that pay homage to popular X-Files fans and fansites. Keep your eyes peeled." Now whether this info leak is a part of the ad campaign is another question.... Let's hope it works...while the ratings are still low, they are improving a little: "Madam I'm Adam" "climbed to a 3.8/7 (3.4/6) beginning at 9 p.m." Next week's episode is "Planet of the Frohikes," and it looks like Skinner and Fletcher are in it! BTW the LG OS posted a bunch of new info, among which is the full title of next week's episode: "Planet of the Frohikes (or, A Short History of My Demeaning Captivity)." Whether this is a nod to Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb is unclear, but this is the first parenthetical ep title in 1013 history. The ep is actually 1LGM05, while "Madam I'm Adam" (1LGM06), written by newbie #2 Thomas Schnauz and directed by Bryan Spicer, aired out of order. "Maximum Byers" airs the week after, on April 13, the untitled 1LGM11 airs April 20, and "Tango de los Pistoleros" airs the 27th. An upcoming episode will involve "Langly's digitized rendering of animatronic flowers." Filming for the season ended March 22.
In XF news, filming ends, at least for GA, on April 5. This makes me wonder if the finale really is two hours long. How could they pull it off unless there was simultaneous shooting of the last two episodes? Anyway, according to the OS "Empedocles" and "Vienen" were pushed back a week to April 22 and 29 respectively. I suppose they're showing The Phantom Menace the 15th instead of the 29th now. And finally, it looks like the female director thing fell through unless whoever it is directed "Essence."
3/27/2001
Oh dear. Time certainly flies between updates, at least for me. So episode info time: 8X19 finally gets its title, "Alone" (Frank Spotnitz both wrote and directed. Not enough Vince this season. :-() Rod Hardy directed "Vienen" and Tony Wharmby becomes a mythology director by directing not only "DeadAlive" but also "Three Words." Pretty much all we don't know in terms of production at this point is the director of the currently filming "Essence," which is likely Wharmby. I'm almost sure that CC wrote both finale episodes solo, and that Kim Manners will direct the two-hour finale. While on the topic I might as well throw in that rookie Collin Friesen wrote the TLG ep "Like Water for Octane," directed by Richard Compton. CC's "Three Men and a Smoking Baby" was directed by Bryan Spicer. More on "Madam I'm Adam": "This episode involves a man who believes he's been abducted by aliens from another dimension, but it turns out his brain is wired. Byers and Jimmy try to help him out. This is the midget wrestling episode. Jimmy discovers a love story that science can't destroy in this episode about Jimmy's first feature article for The Lone Gunman." 1LGM07 is called "Maximum Byers," about Byers and Jimmy going undercover as prisoners to help a man on death row who may be innocent. Thanks elwood! Back to XF, here's more on "Alone": "When [Doggett and Harrison] go out on an X-file that becomes life-threatening, Mulder and Scully are pressed into service even though it's not their assignment anymore." Reyes is in "Essence" and most likely "Existence" also, Margaret Scully is in "DeadAlive," and Kersh is in "DeadAlive" and "Three Words." (By the way many people are saying that those words are "Fight the Future.")
Well the promos are all over the place for "DeadAlive." Is it me or is that the first snow we've seen since the move to L.A.? The print ad is also out; see it here. On to official site-related news. If you're wondering what happened to the big role-playing game, it's a casualty of the demise of News Digital which brought us all the OS goodies. Budget cuts are harsh. Dean Haglund's site is also temporarily closed for relaunch after being neglected for a long time (can we blame him?). And there's another hidden official LG site (in addition to the Call to Arms): www.emagination.com/roy/. It's a cool Flash presentation with a quiz and wallpaper. And on the topic here are some ratings numbers: "The ratings for Sunday's showing 'Like Water for Octane' were several points higher than those for 'Eine Kleine Frohike.' According to Zap2it.com, the ratings for the show were 6.3/9 but it lost viewers in the second half-hour." Apparently the numbers are around what Harsh Realm was pulling--and it lasted 3 episodes. Thanks, Fox! (BTW I'm hearing on the rumor mill that the Millennium DVDs are ramping up.) Well anyway...the science-fiction writers convention that I said would have Chris Carter as a speaker...no longer has him as a speaker. :-( Moving on to merchandise news, click here for info on the full-color, one-shot, 32-page LG comic book coming out May 30, available in two covers. Pretty unexpected I'd say. Also the season 2 DVD set comes out in Australia in April. The next video release there, the TINH trilogy, will come out in May also. Finally, from yesterday to April 1, the XF store is offering an exclusive gunmetal watch. Cool stuff.
Sources: Haven for the FBI's Most Unwanted and The Lone Gunmen at TV Tome.
3/14/2001
Thanks to DannyBishp for the heads-up on the OS update today, which included two new episode titles: "Three Words" for 8X18, and "Existence" for 8X21, the two-hour finale. "Essence"/"Existence" is a nice match, especially after "Within"/"Without." Now if the three words the aforementioned title refers to are what I'm thinking, then many a shipper shall rejoice. Especially if it's not a dream. In TLG news from the LG OS, "Eine Kleine Frohike" is written by John Shiban and directed by newcomer David Jackson. ...Alas, I must end with disheartening news: "Fox's The Lone Gunmen saw its ratings collapse in a second try on Sunday, losing 35 percent of last week's premiere audience in television's key demographic. The steep falloff capped a rough week for Fox, which will drop from the previous week's first-place finish among adults 18-49 to either a third- or fourth-place finish this week. ...Last night's poor performance by Lone Gunmen probably ends any hopes Fox had that the X-Files spinoff could more or less follow in the Nielsen footsteps of its parent. But the network can still hold out hope that the lighter spinoff series can make the grade this week when it takes on the weaker competition of its regular time period Fridays at 9 p.m. Certainly last night posed stiff competition, particularly from the cable side, with such potent attractions as HBO's The Sopranos, Discovery Channel's Land of the Mammoth and TNT's SAG Awards. Sunday's Lone Gunmen managed a 4.3 rating, 10 share among adults 18-49 and a 5.4/8 in households, according to preliminary 'fast affiliate' Nielsens. That was good enough for second place in the 9-10 p.m. hour among adults 18-49, behind only ABC's Who Wants to Be a Millionaire (preliminary 4.8/11 in 18-49, 12.0/18 in homes). But The Lone Gunmen embarrassed Fox by finishing just a 10th of a rating point ahead of CBS's older-skewing competition, the Roma Downey-Tim Matheson TV movie Second Honeymoon (preliminary 4.2/10 in 18-49, 9.5/15 in homes)." This seems to be a slanted article, however, and this Friday and Sunday will probably decide the future of the show. These results are hardly surprising considering that Fox all but dropped promotion of the show after the pilot. Jeez.
Source: Haven for the FBI's Most Unwanted
3/12/2001
Some great news on "Essence": "Margaret Scully is back! ...Scully's mom has a prominent role in the beginning of this ep. Duffy Haskell from 'Per Manum' (the wonderful Jay Acovone)--also back, though let's just say I hope he has all his affairs in order. Billy Miles--he's here too. And he very much appears to have gone over to the dark side. The ep seems to open with a baby shower for Scully. The whole thing plays a little weird on paper--it's clearly her mom's idea, and Scully seems to feel awkward about the whole thing. The script makes a big point about everyone giving her things that are blue and pink, or two items (one blue, one pink). Scully either doesn't know the gender of the baby, or she isn't telling anyone. You could read the scene either way because there is some suggestion that the women at the baby shower are pressing her for information." Also Skinner and Agent Crane are in it. In TLG news, the tango episode is called "Tango de los Pistoleros" (1LGM10). "Pistoleros" means "Gunmen" in Spanish. Plus more on "Three Men and a Smoking Diaper" from elwood: "The guys care for a baby while investigating a senator's involvement in his mistress's murder." Finally, this is an interesting and somehow funny bit from the MSN Chris Carter chat. He said this, without being prompted: "And I would like to curse all of you who made nasty
comments about Agent D. who has turned out to be an excellent addition to the show and in no way was ever meant to replace Agent Mulder on The X-Files or in Scully's heart." That's great, and he's right on.
Sources: Haven for the FBI's Most Unwanted and The Lone Gunmen at TV Tome.
3/8/2001
There's already a title for 8X20, and continuing the trend of simplicity, it's "Essence." I'd assume it's written by Chris Carter, being part 1 of 2. Other possibly big news is that there are rumors that TXF was officially renewed for a 9th season--however there is NO confirmation of this. I've heard that Fox 2 News in Detroit reported it. From the writers chat, they are in the process of writing both finale eps. Plus CC wrote the LG episode "Three Men and a Smoking Baby." There's also news that "Vienen" was written by Steven Maeda--the first time someone other than CC or FS has written mythology solo since "S.R. 819." I wouldn't be surprised if Peter Markle had teamed up again to direct it. Other director info--Barry Thomas, who directed "Empedocles," appeared in "Hollywood A.D." as "Sugar Bear." Whoever that was. I think he's an assistant director on the show otherwise. Uplifting news about "This is Not Happening"'s ratings: "Fox rolled in all key demos, led by dominant 18-49 wins by The Simpsons (9.1/22), Malcolm in the Middle (8.9/20) and The X-Files (9.3/20)--the latter the top score, with the exception of ER, for any one-hour drama on any net this season." In other CC news, his MSN chat was moved to this Friday at 8 p.m. EST. Plus, this is from Babylon 5 creator JMS: "I forgot to mention in my last post that on March 26th, I'll be doing a panel discussion on writing for the fantastic, which will be carried via satellite to various universities and the two divisions of the Museum of Television and Radio. The panel will feature me, Harlan Ellison, Chris Carter and 1-2 others TBD [Richard Matheson, Senator Matheson's namesake]." In DD news, he is apparently expecting another baby!
Finally got my official mag. One of the more interesting things in the issue is news that William B. Davis, in his newfound free time, is writing an original screenplay about "a university professor who discovers scientific evidence proving something the world doesn't want to know." His work on "En Ami" evidently made him want to write more. Next issue is out May 8. Moving on to LG news.... I was impressed by the pilot. Certainly there were some elements of drama in the foreground, and apparently after the pilot the episodes become even more predominately comedic. But I always like a good balance of comedy and drama, and the pilot pulled it off. Especially great were the eye candy given to us by the awesome Rob Bowman (now filming Reign of Fire in Scotland--this was possibly his last work for 1013) and of course Zuleikha Robinson as Yves Adele Harlow. For me anyway, she would be enough to tune in every week, but we have superb cinematography and acting all around as well, and of course the Gunmen (unlike Dark Angel...). The premise seems to be set up well for a series; I especially dig the "fight for the American way" angle. Let's see if this catches on at college campuses. Mark Snow's music was adapted well to the new show with guitar riffs, and the plot was tight and funny and fast-paced. Gotta love Frohike face-down in the mud. BTW anyone catch John Shiban in the video arcade scene? Anyway I guess they changed whatever production company name the pilot was filmed under to Ten Thirteen. Here's the scoop on the ratings: "Lone Gunmen won its 9 p.m. hour in adults 18-49 (prelim 6.5/14), adults 18-34 (6.8/16) and all male demos while placing second in total viewers (13 million). It dipped slightly in its second half-hour, but held up well considering the tough competition. Its 18-49 rating is well below what The X-Files averaged in February with David Duchovny-juiced episodes (8.4/18), but about on par with recent X-Files episodes that haven't featured the series co-star." Now, there are rumors of a secret special guest in the LG finale. A recent article at E! Online may shed some light on this: "Look for Scully to show up in Fox's X-Files spinoff, The Lone Gunmen...." In other actor news, Dean Haglund has signed on for an upcoming Tom Sizemore feature film. Back to TLG, the possibility of Tom Braidwood directing an episode of the show is "under discussion." Vince, Frank, and John all express a desire to direct also--if the show continues past season 1 they probably will. Some upcoming episodes will involve tango dancers (1LGM10), midget wrestling, and death row among other things. And, about the Gunmen appearing in more XF episodes this season, after "DeadAlive" they will be in another episode (probably 8X19) then most likely in the finale too.
Oh yes, there's more. CC has hinted that there will be prequel episodes if there's another season of TLG. Off the LG OS there is a "Call to Arms" streaming video from the Gunmen themselves. Very entertaining. This address was sent only to the press and the main page doesn't link to it, but here it is. There's also now a newsgroup: alt.tv.the-lone-gunmen. Finally there are two bits of merchandise news. First, on the new collector's cards: "The 'Black Cancer' cards have been renamed 'Black Oil'; the 'Pieceworks' cards--which will have actual pieces of show-worn wardrobe--will include cards with pieces of a sweatshirt worn by Mulder (David Duchovny) during the fifth season; and autographed cards will be signed by series creator Chris Carter and actors Brendan Beiser (Agent Pendrell), Laurie Holden (Marita Covarrubias), Jerry Hardin (Deep Throat), and Bruce Harwood (Byers of the Lone Gunmen)." Seasons 4 & 5 come out this month, with seasons 6 & 7 being released in October and season 8 cards slated for 2002. And last, the season 7 episode guide has been named all things: The Official Guide to The X-Files and pushed back for release in May. There will be an article on it in the next official magazine issue.
Sources: Diamond Comics and About.com Guide to X-Files Fans.
3/1/2001
I fixed the link to E-Com-Con in yesterday's update. I meant to say that E-Com-Con was "hacked," not the official LG site. But, according to Dean Haglund on that subject, the LG OS will have a feature which is a site for users to hack into! The site reports that MSN will also have a CC chat tomorrow--I'm assuming they're just hosting the same chat as the Yahoo! one. Finally for today, the three Lone Gunmen will be in a chat Monday night at Zealot.com--I guess this is the one promised by the OS.
2/28/2001
Spoilers are just pouring in. There's more on 8X19, the Leyla Harrison tribute episode, which was at one point titled "A Dream Whose Sleep..." from an e.e. cummings poem. But it has just been reverted back to untitled status. Anyway here we go: "I'm not sure what to make of all this, but she gives Doggett the Apollo 11 medallion Mulder gave her in 'Tempus Fugit'/'Max,' telling him she thinks that he should have it.... The 'monster' is some sort of a black, slick-skinned reptilian thing with a long tail that spits something on people. The reason Doggett is working with Agent Harrison is Scully is going on maternity leave this episode. Agent Harrison has obviously done a good job of studying Mulder and Scully's exploits because she gets real excited about it being an X-file they are investigating. When she and Doggett find some slime she suggests it might be bile from a liver-eating mutant or possibly the remains of a molting alien.... She's worked in accounting all these years processing Mulder and Scully's expense reports and asks to be assigned. She even gets to have the continuity lines while investigating the case." The boys at 1013 still have their sense of humor. This takes continuity to a new level--I can't wait! Now for some clarifications. "DeadAlive," written by CC & FS, was directed by Tony Wharmby. 8X18, part 3, is shooting now and I'm almost positive the duo wrote that one together also. I've also heard that CC himself will write the finale episodes. Speaking of which, the extension to 22 episodes is not exactly what it seems. Roda93 pointed out that 22 episodes wouldn't even fit in the schedule and would have to go beyond May. So why did Annabeth Gish say that she will be in episodes 21 and 22? I think this is because they are the same episode--the two-hour finale that was given two production numbers, or so it seems. That makes 8X20 part 1 and the season 21 episodes long. Also, Chris Carter is no longer planning on directing one of the finale episodes. I was wondering how he'd pull that one off. More general CC/XF news: "Chris said that David has not ruled out returning to XF next year in a very limited capacity.... I asked Chris about the Ted Serios project and his Bantam novels. They are on indefinite hold until he gets time to focus on them. If there's a writer's strike--which he's obviously hoping there won't be--he may be able to work on them.... A ninth season is very definitely being planned." BTW there is a CC chat this Friday at 5 p.m. EST at Yahoo! Anyway I don't think I have to elaborate on the greatness of "This is Not Happening," which featured one of the best cliffhangers ever and the best climax since "Redux II." Standouts included the direction, Gish's character and of course Richie, who is the man. Check this out: "The episode averaged 16.8 million viewers, the highest for a single X-Files episode in more than a year, and higher than the season average during the series' peak, in 1996-1997." BTW check out the OS for more award news. Finally in the XF category, from CC: "Barring anything unforeseen, [the series] should be
back for a ninth season. But if it's not, the movie will follow right after the eighth season."
On to The Lone Gunmen! The official site is finally up, and it is no letdown. But those without the right plugins are out of luck. Also coinciding with this is the "hacking" of the E-Com-Con site. They even got legitimate computer news sites to report the "event" as real. Anyway here are some more details. The pilot was filmed under a production company name other than Ten Thirteen for some reason, but after that it goes back to the company we know and love. We have the official production number format for the series--the pilot is 1AEB79. I'll still use the 1LGM79 format though. Yesterday Chris Carter's name was added to the writers of the pilot, so now all four executive producers have writing credit for it. This was a last-minute change, because before it was only the John Gilnitz trio that was credited. Anyway, "Bond, Jimmy Bond" was written by the trio and directed by Bryan Spicer. Speaking of which, Vince, John, and Frank will be in a chat at the XF OS tomorrow--check it out for details. A chat with the Gunmen is planned too. The LG OS will also have video from the premiere of the pilot at the Museum of Radio and Television soon. ...In 1LGM09, the first Skinner crossover episode (of at least 2), he and Jimmy Bond get "very close" according to CC. Thanks elwood! Plus we have a title for 1LGM06, "Planet of the Frohikes." This is, of course, the monkey episode. Here's a brief summary of "Three Men and a Smoking Diaper": "The Gunmen and Jimmy have to cope with a baby in the HQ."
1LGM11 is currently filming if not finished already. The finale is 1LGM12. Info on that: "Chris Carter mentioned that there would be 'secret special guests' appearing." IMDb predicts that Mulder & Scully or Doggett are those guests. Anyway it's confirmed that Morris Fletcher will be in the spinoff. Two more items today. First, this is Lone Gunmen Week on FX. Five XF episodes were/will be aired featuring the Gunmen. In between segments of the episodes are new interviews with the cast of the spinoff. Finally, there's another props auction ending April 6 at Amazon.com. The proceeds go to the Variety Club of British Columbia, a children's charity. The props include Mulder's nameplate (not given away in X-Props II?!), a copy of the Lone Gunman newspaper, the license plate from JFK's assassination car and several X-files.
Sources: Haven for the FBI's Most Unwanted, The Lone Gunmen at TV Tome, and The Carter File.
2/22/2001
Big news of yet another new character, but this seems to be a one-time standalone addition like Agent Peyton Ritter in "Tithonus." The character's name is a tribute to a late fan of the show: "LEYLA HARRISON--Female, late 20s to early 30s, open ethnicity. A cute, newly appointed agent to an X-files case to partner with Agent Doggett. She began as an accountant for the Bureau, and always had the dream of becoming an agent assigned to the X-files. She is eager and enthusiastic about the position, but her inexperience and ineptitude are frustrating to Doggett although, always the gentleman, he treats her like a gentleman should. GUEST STAR." This is likely for 8X19, the episode Frank Spotnitz is directing. I wonder if he's writing it--I actually hope Vince is writing it since apparently it's the last standalone of the season. Not sure how that works out--either a mythology standalone will be before the final two-parter, or the two-hour second part is being counted as two episodes for numbering purposes. Remember according to Annabeth Gish's schedule, there are 22 episodes this season. Speaking of which, there are articles out there which are saying this is the last season for sure. Not true. They are exaggerating previous quotes from Chris Carter, and the future is as up in the air as it ever was. Anyway according to CC in the non-exaggerating TV Guide, the finale "will be a cliffhanger either for next season, if we return, or for the movie." Also the delivery of Scully's baby will be "a subject of serious consequence." Dear me.
"Per Manum." The most engrossing episode all year, possibly more than that. Conspiracy! Flashbacks! Mulder! Great music! What more can we ask? Seriously, this episode may not be getting enough credit. Retroactive storytelling aside, it ingeniously leads us to believe that Scully's baby is an alien and actually gives us the answer at the end! Of course it's human and of course it's healthy. We also find out who's the father and how it happened, except for the twist. And I'm still betting that the answer to what the "miracle" was will soon be revealed...to be the alien ship in "The Sixth Extinction." I loved Mulder's infamous quip...the outrageous alien...the hideously deformed human fetuses...even Doggett's pickup! I was impressed all around. Even the flashbacks were done cleverly, and I must say that the car chase was more than a little disturbing. I never said anything about "Medusa," so I will only say this: Was that...no...chemistry I saw between Scully and Doggett? Couldn't be. The plot was weak in places but all in service of an adrenaline-pumped hour. So ratings for "Per Manum": "The X-Files was the night's top show in adults 18-49 (8.7/19), delivering its best rating since its season premiere last November and its highest adults 25-54 rating (9.1/18) since November 1999." All right! Finally I have the print ad for "This is Not Happening" and an ad for "Requiem" on video in the U.K. (Thanks David Yeldon!)
2/17/2001
Lots has been going on.... 8X17 (now shooting) has a title, "Empedocles," and it is with certainty the first episode to be named after a philosopher. Dictionary definition is "Greek philosopher & statesman; disciple of Parmenides; proposed that physical world was comprised of four elements; reputed founder of rhetoric." Now we have info on 8X18, part 3 of the TINH 3-parter. This looks like one of the coolest teasers ever: "...The teaser features a man storming the White House and being mysteriously shot as he's screaming that he needs to tell the President that aliens are taking over the United States. The guards wrestling him to the ground are taken aback by the fact that he's been shot, so the implication is that someone other than the White House guards did him in. In his dead hand, he's clutching a CD with the words 'Fight the Future' written on it." The man is also a census worker. Other big news is that the season seems to have been extended to 22 episodes, and that Frank Spotnitz will direct his first episode, 8X19, the last standalone of the year. Reyes is only in part 1 of the 3-parter and "Empedocles" so far; she will also be in the last two episodes. Krycek comes back in April as we know, and Covarrubias comes back a little after that. Plus the Lone Gunmen's days on TXF aren't over yet: they're in "DeadAlive." Also I have two overdue print ads, for "Medusa" and "Per Manum". Now this is evidence that the producers' outlook has definitely changed, from CC: "So my preference is to do The X-Files next year, but there are things that need to be hammered out between all the participants in the process." BTW the official magazine is out, and I will have a recap as soon as I get mine in the mail.
We now have specifics on the season 3 DVD set. There's another documentary, 12 CC interviews, trailers, cut scenes, behind-the-scenes footage, special effects clips with commentary by Mat Beck, international clips, 17 "Behind the Truth" spots, and a DVD-ROM game called Unholy Alliances--isn't this the same name as the season 2 game? Pictures of the packaging and discs are up here. There are even more details: the eps have English and French stereo language tracks and English and Spanish subtitles. To find out which eps have deleted scenes, international clips, and director/writer commentaries, check out the OS.
There's also a bunch of LG news. 1LGM10 is now filming, and the one before that, 1LGM09, has Skinner in it. As you have probably noticed, the promos are coming fast and furious for the show, and last Sunday's local Fox news even had a segment on it. I will be royally pissed if the Harsh Realm fiasco repeats itself, especially now that there is confirmation that the show will move to Fridays at 9 instead of Thursdays at 8. In fact, we have 3 more episode titles and an updated schedule from the OS: "Eine Kleine Frohike" has been moved from Sunday, March 18 to Friday the 16th, and an episode called "Like Water for Octane" (the water-powered car episode) will air that Sunday. Then the show will be exclusively on Fridays: "Three Men and a Smoking Diaper" on 3/23 and "Madam I'm Adam" on 3/30. "Eine Kleine Frohike" is the Nazi war criminal episode: "Frohike has to disguise himself as the long-lost son of a woman who is
believed to be a Nazi war criminal that the Gunmen are trying to smoke out of the woodwork." Thanks elwood! Anyway, I was interested to find out that the main director of the show is Bryan Spicer, who did an episode each of TXF and HR. He's apparently doing about every other episode. Other directors doing episodes are XF's Richard Compton (who is directing 2 this season) and newcomers Dave Jackson and Vincent Misiano (from Law & Order...remember the crossover in "Unusual Suspects"?). Anyway, there will be an episode about super-intelligent military chimps, and another about "a guy that's convinced he's been visited by aliens"...the only one that comes close to an X-file. There's more info on Jimmy Bond: He's a "big-hearted dumb lunk who's got the money to fund the paper. ...He likes [their] morality, so he wants to become a Gunman so he hangs around a lot." About the mythology of the show: It's "kind of hinted at in the first twelve episodes and then in the final episode of the season; you really get a sense of what it is. ...The mythology of the show centers around the new character, this woman Yves Adele Harlow. Yves Adele Harlow is an anagram for Lee Harvey Oswald. We don't really know what her real name is and she's a mystery woman. So, the mythology is about her, where she came from, why she does what she does." That's it!
Sources: Haven for the FBI's Most Unwanted, The Lone Gunmen at TV Tome, and Cinescape Online.
2/7/2001
News on 8X17 is already in, and it looks like a semi-mythology standalone. It's written by Greg Walker with newcomer Barry Thomas directing--as far as I can tell, he has previously only been second unit director or assistant director in TV episodes. Filming begins the 12th. Here's the info: "Agent Reyes is in it again. She's called in by the New Orleans PD on a case that looks like satanic ritual killings. From what I gather the X-file itself is some sort of possession with an entity moving between bodies." And: "I'm not sure what the X-file is in this ep, but it seems to involve people seeing things in slow motion a lot. In the teaser, a wimpy guy who's just been fired witnesses a car accident where a burning man seems to rise up out of one of the cars and enter wimpy guy's body. Wimpy guy, blank stare and all, then goes up and kills his supervisor and some hapless person from Human Resources." There's more: "Who is the FBI agent with paranormal experience that the police call in to look at the carnage? Monica Reyes. They set it up to make us expect Mulder, but she walks in and spends a good part of her scene fiddling with nicotine gum. She's described as having an attitude which 'as we've come to expect, is characteristically sunny.' Reyes later makes a cell phone call to Mulder while he's got his mind on other things. He doesn't seem to know her and is 'annoyed' by the call. She tells him they've never met, at least not 'since he's been alive.' She's looking for help on the case, but Mulder brushes her off and tells her he can't help her 'for so many reasons,' and tells her she should talk to Doggett 'at the X-files.' Interestingly, she says she can't do that. Hmmmmm. Doggett's standing next to Mulder at the time." Finally: "There's also an odd reference (for which I don't have any context) to Reyes sensing an 'unspoken connection' that Mulder has to Doggett." Now that one piques my interest the most. In other spoiler news, it looks like our pals Gary & Richie from "Requiem" are back in "DeadAlive."
The OS has posted info on an upcoming appearance of Dean Haglund and Tom Braidwood, plus more awards news and pictures of the Feb. episodes. Changing the subject a bit, here's an old quote from Mark Snow on the then-future of a certain canceled series: "I think that it will be a combination of many, many different styles because the show is virtual reality at least 80 to 90 percent of the time. I think they're planning to have many different virtual worlds from periods dating back to the Dark Ages, futuresque, and all over the world. It's going to be wide open to a lot of different cultures and we'll be using a lot of different musical styles." Even more interesting is this: "Snow has also chosen to shed a little light onto the recent rumor that the name of [Film Score Monthly]'s own Jeff Bond appears somewhere in the Harsh Realm main title. 'I'm not going to say it is or isn't,' says Snow. 'People are welcome to try and speed up, slow down, or play the music backwards to discover what's there. It's kind of like the '60s when people played that Beatles song backwards to try to hear it say, "Paul is Dead."'" There's also more chatter going around about another CC project we've heard about (this quote from Lance Henriksen): "Chris wants to do a movie based on Millennium. Probably not calling it Millennium, but using that character. He's talked about that and it's in the air." Finally, in ratings news, the fantastic "The Gift" garnered "its best marks (preliminary 14.4 million, 8.2/18 in adults 18-49) since November." I missed Scully, but damn Doggett can sure hold up an episode by himself. I'm glad he's finally turning around--this is the second time Spotnitz has had Doggett confront something he can't explain, and the results are always fascinating. Gotta love the mytharc tie-ins and Mulder flashbacks...and of course the Gunmen. Did Langly call Doggett Agent Dogbert? If I caught that right it was almost certainly a nod to the fans. Bring on "Medusa"!
Sources: Haven for the FBI's Most Unwanted, Cinescape Online, and Encore: The Ultimate Mark Snow Site.
1/31/2001
Straight from the OS: "Gillian Anderson was nominated as Best Actress in a Drama Series for the Screen Actors Guild Awards, to be held on March 11th and broadcast on TNT." Other big news is that pics for "This is Not Happening" have surfaced on FoxFlash and other sites. The wait is getting longer.... I also have some new LG info on the episode "Bond, Jimmy Bond": Japanese actor Kevan Ohtsji plays Toshiro, "an expert martial artist who kidnaps an influential Japanese businessman. The episode's plot, of course, is embroiled with intrigue as the trio of computer-hacking conspiracy freaks attempts to expose another case of corporate conspiracy. 'They've choreographed a fight sequence which I had a lot of fun rehearsing. I get to do all my own stunts with the exception of a shot where Frohike kicks my character through a wall. The script is very funny, and I really enjoyed filming last week.' The role was 'a great present' for the young actor who celebrated his 25th birthday on set." There are also rumors that the Bounty Hunter will appear in some episodes of the spinoff! Ads for the series are already being shown on Fox. Speaking of which, the E-Com-Con site now has a section showing all the e-mails they receive. Click on "Forgot Your Password?" for the page. It's hilarious to see how many people think it's real. But something tells me there are at least a couple planted messages in there hinting at future episodes.... Anyway, "The Gift" airs this Sunday--everyone ready for Mulder? The print ad is here.
Some merchandise news: The "fourth and fifth series of trading cards are to be released this coming March, with a sixth and seventh series to be released in October. An eighth series is currently listed as 'to be announced.'" The season 2 DVDs have been pushed back to April 30 in the U.K. Also the next official magazine will be available in two covers: the Lone Gunmen and Scully & Doggett. BTW I've finally been able to see all of the unaired Harsh Realm episodes. How sad, this show had so much potential. Each episode seemed to be better than the last! Let's hope CC's plan to resurrect it succeeds. Finally, thanks to Nathan for pointing out that "Eine Kleine Nachtmusik" is in fact by Mozart. (You'd think I'd remember, having played it myself....) Well that's all the news for today.
Sources: The Lone Gunmen at TV Tome and The X-Files Merchandise Web Site.
1/26/2001
The LG official site updated with a new Flash intro and a new address, www.thelonegunmen.com. The full site will be up next month. Speaking of TLG, elwood saw the pilot. Here's what he says: "It's better than some XF eps this year. There's high potential in this series--not just because they're not trying to copy The X-Files. It's cool, funny, and it would have worked as a LGM ep like 5X01 or 6X19. I'm really excited (and psyched for more LGM!). I think old-school XF fans will like it, too. Plus, there are some tiny similarities to Harsh Realm."
1/25/2001
Finally the OS posted the 8X08 title, and it's "Per Manum," Latin for "By Hand" I believe. Also posted there is info on the latest awards for the show. That's it for today.
1/24/2001 *Updated*
UPDATE: I forgot to put up a picture of the DVD rerelease cover, so here it is.
Big news day today. Yesterday the OS gave us a new episode title, "Vienen," for 8X16. It means "They Come" in Spanish and yes, this refers to the colonization. The strange thing is that the current schedule lists 8X18 right after "DeadAlive," then 8X17, then "Vienen," which ends up airing April 22. We know that "This is Not Happening" is part 1 of 3, and logically part 3 can't be separated from the other 2. "Vienen" is a mythology episode, but I guess it's a standalone one. I'm assuming that 8X18 is part 3, and they might have done this so Kim Manners could somehow direct all the parts. So...more specific info on "Vienen." If I wasn't already excited enough about the second half of the season, I'm going crazy now. Remember that CC quote so long ago about them possibly setting an episode on an oil rig they scouted? Well this is it, and look what's back: "Scully is 'well into her third trimester.' According to the direction of one scene 'Scully and Mulder lock eyes and from his look he seems to be enjoying his role as agent provocateur. But Scully isn't necessarily humored sensing Agent Doggett's state of mind as he follows Mulder.' Mulder is on an 'oil case' seemingly investigating the black oil. Scully, Doggett and Kersh meet with Mr. Ortega, the oil executive, and Kersh is angered by Mulder's rush to action against Ortega. Mulder protests that the case is an X-file and Kersh replies that he's sending someone from the X-files to investigate. Mulder is concerned that Scully shouldn't be sent out to an oil rig 250 miles at sea in her (pregnant) condition. Kersh, of course, wasn't sending Scully but rather Doggett. Doggett can't help but 'smirk' at this. Apparently Mulder goes to the rig w/ Doggett anyway. M/S talk via radio. Doggett informs Mulder that he [Doggett] is in charge on the rig. Mulder encourages him to take charge then. Skinner is in the episode and in a conversation between Skinner and Scully, Scully mentions that something related to the black oil confirms Mulder's worst fears." Also: "There's a death on a U.S. oil rig in the gulf of a Mexican national [sic]. ...Kersh sends Doggett to investigate [and] Mulder catches his own ride and beats him there. Doggett is less than pleased. Scully is back at FBI central with Skinner covering for her with Kersh while she works the black oil angle."
The OS also posted the titles of the two LG episodes after the pilot (which, incidentally, is available to download at alt.binaries.x-files). The March 11 episode is called "Bond, Jimmy Bond"--this is the debut of that character of course. The next week's ep is "Eine Kleine Frohike," and all I know is that the title is German for "A Little Frohike" literally, but it's from Beethoven's "Eine Kleine Nachtmusik." This could be the Nazi war criminal story CC mentioned. There is no XF or LG episode on March 25, and there is also no mention of an LG episode airing on a Friday in March. Hmm, we'll see. Speaking of the OS, I have found out that unfortunately the planned feature of offering free Web space and tools/pictures/etc. for unofficial XF pages is not happening because of company restructuring. Too bad. Also the fan page spotlight will return soon. ...Now if I may interject with some comments about "Badlaa".... First off, have they decided which size to use for the 1013 logo?? I was also sure I heard movie music sampled in the score, which was good as usual this season. And the February preview...drool.... They showed clips from all 4 episodes! I cannot wait. Anyway to the episode. Can I say I just don't understand the people who thought it was trash?? This was definitely the best standalone episode this season along with "Via Negativa." I was even able to overlook the similarities with "Squeeze," "Pusher," etc. because the rest of the story was so original and wonderfully sick. The squeaking of the cart was a great touch. I was so happy to see some development in both Scully and Doggett (and even good ol' Chuck Burks), and the Mulder mentions made the ep that much better. The kids' impromptu secret mission at the end was also fun. Robert Patrick did some of his best acting to date, and I believe that although Scully was lamenting that she couldn't handle Mulder's job, this was the first episode where she was actually convincing as the believer. This was also the first episode where the Scully/Doggett interaction was fun and natural. OK I'm done.
Lots of merchandise news. First, it appears that while the cut CSM end scene from the movie was in the versions of the DVD rerelease that were reviewed, the final versions don't include it for some reason. Also there's a bunch of Mark Snow news. This is from the man himself: "On the Millennium front, Fox is going to be putting together an Internet music site where you can order or download music from their catalog, and Millennium will be part of it. I don't know when it's going to happen but they won't let me release Millennium music on my own. I hope it pans out, but who knows for sure? I'll keep you posted on Millennium news." Further news on the subject: "'Unfortunately, Fox retracted its permission to let Mark release the [Millennium] CD on his own. Fox anticipates starting its own Internet site where it will sell CDs from its various soundtracks. They are immovable about this.' What about The X-Files? If the fans started a campaign, would Fox still refuse to give Mark the permission? The answer from Mark's manager: 'It would also apply to X-Files.' But, wait! He continued with this: 'The good news is I just spent some time with Fox's head of publishing and the Fox Web site has been launched. I will know soon when they plan to offer it for sale.' So, in brief, Fox will be releasing their own Millennium and X-Files CDs in the near future. But, they won't allow Mark Snow to do it on his own." Also: "Interplay will be releasing a CD with music from the multiple-award-winning PC game, Giants: Citizen Kabuto. The CD includes the score written by Mark Snow including the music from the original trailer. At the moment, it appears that the CD can only be pre-ordered from Interplay's online store." In trading card news, here's more info on the previous news of more seasons: "Inkworks will launch a long-term program to help X-Philes update their trading card collections with its first X-Files release! The X-Files Season 4 & 5 Premium Trading Cards will contain a 100-card series that will double the episodic coverage found in previous releases with synopses, behind-the-scenes information, and three levels of bonus cards--including 'Conspiracy Highlights' and rare autographed cards--that round out the set. An X-Files Season 4 & 5 Premium Album is also offered this month to keep these cards looking their eeriest." On a similar note, the fan club is now offering this: "...An uncut sheet of contest cards that were only given out to attendees of the 2000 International Comic Convention and 2000 Wizard World Convention." Only 250 are available. I also have a bunch of release date updates. The season 7 episode guide is set for March, season 2 on DVD was pushed back to April 20 in Australia, and the "Requiem" trilogy comes out on video March 26 in the U.K. Here's a picture of the cover. That's all for today.
Sources: Haven for the FBI's Most Unwanted, Diamond Comics, and Encore: The Ultimate Mark Snow Site.
1/20/2001
Finally we have the officials on "Badlaa"--written by John Shiban (as suspected), directed by Tony Wharmby. The print ad for that ep is here. It actually looks pretty good! In scheduling news, "Je Souhaite" will show opposite the Super Bowl on Jan. 28, and the spinoff premiere, which we already know will be on March 4 instead of TXF, will be the first of 4 LG episodes to be shown that month. We've been getting lots of conflicting info on the specifics, so here they are: After the pilot, TLG will be on the next two Sundays, but on the Friday before the third of the 3 Sundays, TLG will be on at 9. So that is 4 in all. The fourth Sunday in March will probably be an XF rerun. It's also confirmed that new XF episodes will begin again on April 1 with "DeadAlive," part 2 of 3.
Lots of Frank Spotnitz quotes today. First: "The finale for this season will be the finale for the eight years of the show. The ninth season, if there is one, will be a whole new ballgame." Plus: "Anything is possible. You might see four, three, who knows how many agents will be around if the show continues next year. Whatever happens--whether Mulder appears next season or not--something is coming to an end at the end of this season. There's the Mulder abduction storyline, which gets resolved, and there's also the Scully pregnancy storyline that gets resolved. And I think a big chapter is going to close in those final two episodes. And the series will be different, whoever comes back for it--if there is another year. We're still working out what that final story is, but there are a couple of elements that we know are going to be in there. And those two elements close the chapter." So this means both the rumors about a 2-part finale and 2-hour finale are true! We get part 1, 1 hour long, and the conclusion, the season or series finale, which will be 2 hours long. Plus we have more info on The World of Ted Serios from FS: "They're really waiting for us, very patiently, because we're late, to write the script. What we've been doing in our spare time is amass research, because this, unlike anything we've done before, is based on a true story, and we want to be respectful of the real people and the real historical events. Very much a part of the story is the fact that it did take place in the 1960s, and the backdrop of the 1960s is important as well." And "Spotnitz also reveals that the book was brought to Carter's attention by his agent. Spotnitz adds, 'We read the book and we were immediately drawn to it--despite the fact that it has a lot to do with The X-Files. Honestly, we were weren't looking to do something that close to The X-Files as a movie. But what really intrigued us about it was that one, it was a real-life X-file, and it raises the question of was he or wasn't he proof of the paranormal, or of extrasensory perception, or whatever it was that gave him the ability to throw his mind's-eye images onto a film negative. But more than that is the human story, the personal story, about this therapist, Dr. Eisenbud, who really put everything on the line because of his belief in this man, Ted Serios. And he paid a great price for it, personally and professionally. He never really did get vindication. Even now, it's highly disputed whether there was anything to Ted Serios.'" We also have more info on the character of Reyes: She "smiles, laughs, and is a little off-center; there's a slightly neurotic quality to her." And a little tidbit on the finale: "Carter's scripts call for Duchovny as Mulder to undergo more 'horrible torture' on [the alien ship] set before we learn during the May
sweeps exactly why the aliens snatched him in a blaze of blue light last May."
Remember, the movie DVD rerelease comes out Jan. 23--Tuesday! Speaking of merchandise, on March 21 the "Requiem" videos will be released in Australia--they were pushed back. Anyway on OS/game news, here is something interesting: "The official
Fox site will attempt a 3D, interactive game called The X-Files
Pathogen Unknown, based on WildTangent's multimedia Internet
platform, to be released in four monthly online episodes starting in February. The storyline of the TV show will dictate the plot of the game." This of course doesn't include the teaser, which is already online. Come to think of it, I bet it says "Demo" because it's a demo of what's to come in February. So I guess it's an online-only game, not a preview of an upcoming game on CD-ROM. Also the OS put up a video of a recent press conference that took place at the alien ship interior set with CC, FS, GA, and RP. An interesting sidenote: The XF OS webmaster has his own site at houseofkyle.com. Basically just a blog, but it's interesting to see how our unknown webmaster lives/works. Finally, "Surekill" got a 9.4/13 rating while "Salvage" dropped to 7.1/10. Just my general opinion about these two is that they were great stories even if they didn't advance the characters of Scully or Doggett at all and didn't mention Mulder. I think the producers have been trying to get to a point where they're on a "plateau," so to speak, so they can just tell stories without worrying about the mythology like they did in season 1. And they have succeeded beautifully in this. Accepting the fact that these episodes are complete standalones (hence the name), they are easily enjoyed. The writing was actually good, and the directing fantastic (especially Rod Hardy). I have also been impressed with Mark Snow's music lately, and actually the whole season.
Sources: Haven for the FBI's Most Unwanted and Cinescape Online.
1/14/2001
I was able to update all other pages a few days ago, so finally here's the news update. Lots of info and news on season 8 episodes and more general stuff, plus a new possible upcoming CC project. First, 8X15, part 2 of 3, is called "DeadAlive" (written by Chris Carter and Frank Spotnitz) and tonight's episode, "Salvage," is directed by Rod Hardy. Looks great. The former episode features the return of Jeremiah Smith (promised since the end of season 6), Billy Miles and Teresa Hoese from "This is Not Happening," and Skinner, Krycek, and his nasty nanobots. I'd assume Covarrubias too, and of course the newly christened Special Agent Monica Reyes. From this info and the title the plot can be guessed, and I'll leave it at that. From what little I've heard it sounds absolutely unbelievable. This is not one you want to be spoiled about. BTW 8X14 is part 1 of 3, and 8X08 is a standalone mythology episode. Also it seems the two-part finale plan has been changed to a two-hour finale, which should be quite an event. I'm hearing that there will be a cliffhanger that leads either to season 9 or the next movie. In schedule news, Fox is airing Star Wars: Episode 1--The Phantom Menace on April 29, so no XF. That is the first day of May sweeps. There's apparently another January eps promo out there too.
Yet another show added to CC's busy schedule? "It's something I've been thinking about for a long time and I'm very anxious to do it," he said, adding that its focus is "about everything." Also "it would take a lot of lessons learned from The X-Files and try to employ them." Wonder what this could be. And more on the next movie from CC: "So I can foresee trying to write a movie in the next year, year and a half, maybe two years, but it all depends on...what's going on with the TV series." Anyway, I have some spoilers on other eps. First, an interesting addition to what we know about 8X08: "Scully and Doggett learn that someone has been performing torturous experiments on [Teresa]." Plus "Scully is forced to question whether she should reveal the secret of her pregnancy to Doggett. Clues to the identity of who--or what--is the father of Scully's baby may be revealed." This is the flashback ep to "all things." "Badlaa": "There's a karmic twist to this murder mystery, with a climax that puts Scully to a real test. The victim is an importer/exporter from Minnesota found in a D.C. hotel room, twenty minutes after checking in following a flight from India. Despite much blood, the cause of death is unknown. Doggett finds fingerprints in the room suggesting a child was there. But what Scully finds in her autopsy suggests more: something appears to have exited the man's body--which she determines was in India at the time of death. The ensuing investigation brings the agents to Mulder's consultant Chuck Burks, whose prognosis is that the suspect is virtually unstoppable." Yay, Chucky! BTW no DD or GA directing this season. But...I finally have some info on upcoming TLG episodes: The show "is at about the halfway point in preparation for debut. Conspiracy theories like the Kennedy assassination will be part of the plotlines, without a doubt. In general, however, Carter says, 'They have more to do with what I'd call contemporary crime and injustice.' Such as? 'The kind of stuff where the government is lying to us,' says Carter. 'Also white-collar crime and we've got a story about the legendary water-powered car. We've got a story about a philandering senator. We've got a story about a possible Nazi war criminal, who is a woman living in America.' The last one, for a reason he won't explain, makes him laugh out loud. 'It's just very funny.'" Plus there's even more of a connection between TLG and TXF than we thought: "Carter is also said to have taken issue with the network not adequately promoting the coming spinoff series by taking advantage of the connection between Gunmen and...The X-Files. Word has it from Chris Carter that the treatment that Fox gives the coming Lone Gunmen spinoff series may determine whether or not The X-Files will go into a ninth season."
Got some more dirt thanks to Roda93: GA's contract for a 9th season is probably similar to DD's this season. Also she has debunked Fox's theory that the ratings have improved at all this season: "Seven episodes into the season the show's average is 38th place, 8.3 ratings share, 13.9 million viewers. This time last year...the average was 19th place, 9.6 ratings share, 15.65 million viewers. Overall the show has dropped 19 places, dropped 1.3 ratings share points and lost 1.75 million viewers." Grrrrrr.... Anyway, I finally got the OS game to work on the lowest setting. It was really short, but it's only the teaser. In merchandise news...we're looking at May 8 for the release of season 3 on DVD. Speaking of DVD, I've confirmed that the cut CSM end scene is in the FTF DVD rerelease. The "Requiem" videos are set for February 7 in Australia, and from this interesting article: "Still, there is ongoing talk in the hallways of 20th Century Fox about the possibility of an[other] actual soundtrack release [for the show], and hopefully one will be forthcoming in the future." Finally, the OS has info on season 8 broadcasting in the U.K. Apparently it was supposed to be posted on the front page too, but that hasn't happened yet.
Sources: Haven for the FBI's Most Unwanted and Cinescape Online.
1/4/2001
Well we now have an 8X12 title--one word of course--and it's "Badlaa," an Urdu word meaning revenge, retaliation, or exchange. From Roda93: "Urdu is a language belonging to the Indic group of the Indo-Iranian
subfamily of the Indo-European family of languages. It is the official tongue of Pakistan." The OS confirmed the title of "Salvage," and some sites are spelling 8X09's title as "SureKill," but I'm sticking with the OS. Speaking of which, the OS posted a video of the hair and makeup screen test for Annabeth Gish, who has been cast to play the new female agent. Apparently her name isn't Karen Miller--articles are saying she's still unnamed although spoilers are saying it's Jane Jones, which is what I'm going with unless we hear otherwise. Agent Jones will be introduced in a three-episode arc starting with "This is Not Happening," the episode where Mulder returns! If there is a 9th season, which is looking more and more like it will happen, she will become a regular but she is not replacing Scully. Here are the numbers: "...The introduction of [Robert] Patrick has delivered an average of 13.9 million viewers for the season to date, up 7% from last year, and a 7.6 rating/16 share among adults 18-49, up 9%." In fact, CC is in preliminary talks to come back for another season! More details on the character: She is "brought to the team by Agent John Doggett from the New Orleans office, where she has been working a ritualistic crime detail dealing with reports of satanic cults. 'She is quite unlike any of the other agents,' [Chris] Carter said. 'She has been neither a firm believer nor a major skeptic, either.' To spice things up, Gish's character has a personal history with Doggett, who brings her in to help on a case involving agent Fox Mulder." This is also highly interesting: "Carter got the idea about the new character from an FBI agent investigating satanic ritual abuse whom he saw on Larry King Live years ago, before he started working on The X-Files. In fact, that interview was one of the things that inspired Carter to create the series, he said." He also said: "It seems to me that we have benefited from the addition of Robert Patrick to the cast, and we're hoping that we can expand the cast even further and as successfully with Annabeth." The OS also finally put up the game, which seems to actually be a demo of an upcoming computer game as I thought. The official name is Pathogen Unknown: The Interactive Adventure. I've tried 4 times now to get it to work, but it keeps freezing my computer! I'll have to try again.... Finally, this season's shooting will wrap in the first week of April. Pretty early.
Source: Haven for the FBI's Most Unwanted
12/31/2000
Time for the New Year's update. The most interesting news is that 1013 has put up two tie-in Web sites for The Lone Gunmen. They are meant to look like real corporate sites, but they're actually sites for a company that apparently has some role in the show. Check out www.e-com-con.com and a site that is linked from there, www.octiumchip.com. Tons of inside jokes in the sites...makes for interesting reading. Anyone figure out the password? Next, it seems that 8X10 is called "Salvage," which would make sense because the episode has to do with Southside Salvage. Another one-word title! Speaking of upcoming episodes, there are at least 2 promos airing on Fox now for the January episodes, plus a promo for "Surekill." Here is the print ad for that episode. Now here's an interesting Frank Spotnitz quote: "I think this is going to be a season with more than one cliffhanger in it, and we're going to use those cliffhangers as opportunities to expand or contract time as need be." In award news, Gillian and the show were nominated for TV Guide Awards. Finally, in merchandise news...it looks like the season 2 DVDs have been pushed back to March 7 in Australia.
Sources: Haven for the FBI's Most Unwanted and Cinescape Online.
12/21/2000
Now that the crew is on hiatus, there won't be much going on until the new year. So here is the holiday update. In awards/recognition news, Gillian Anderson was nominated for 2 Golden Satellite Awards but neither she, DD, RP, or TXF got a Golden Globe nomination. Entertainment Weekly listed TXF as #6 in the year's top shows, and also the show has the 10th best ratings in the 18-49 demo this season. Anyway, GO TO THE OS NOW to see pictures from 8X08 including Mulder and TLG! Just three more random tidbits: the official Spanish XF site is at www.mundofox.com/mundoTV/index.html?tv=1114&pg=p I just learned; the next video in the U.K. will be "Requiem" with all three episodes, to be released March 12; and season 2 comes out on DVD there April 30 and in Australia February 1. Thanks David Yeldon!
Source: Haven for the FBI's Most Unwanted
12/15/2000
"Redrum" impressed me. It took "Hungry"'s experiment and proved that an episode from the POV of a new character can work, with minimal help from the leads. It pretty much boils down to whether or not you can get past the fact that Scully and Doggett were hardly in the episode and enjoy the story--which is what Chris Carter is concentrating on anyway, "telling good stories." We never see Scully and Doggett alone together talking, so of course there is no mention of Mulder or Scully's search to find him. Honestly any such mention would be out of place. Peter Markle did a good job as usual, and the story was pretty much airtight, with the exception of one thing: the date. The X-Cursions column pointed out that the date stamps (which were uniquely prominent this time around) showed that the episode took place in December, yet Scully's pregnancy hasn't shown any development. "Requiem" and the premiere episodes took place in May! A neat in-joke was the case number read by the judge (8ABX03). Well anyway, it's catch-up time. At the beginning of the week I updated a bunch of pages, but I wasn't able to post them up here. First, 8X13 is another (!) Frank Spotnitz episode, directed by Richard Compton. Good move on 1013's part. It is the Boston subway episode and it's called "Medusa." It airs Feb. 11, and started shooting Monday. In 8X08 news, Mark Snow has a cameo. And: "The episode also features a brief return of David Duchovny. 'I play a doctor, and I don't say anything and I'm not on the screen too long, but it was a fun moment,' Snow told Soundtrackmag.com. 'Kim Manners, the director, called up and said, "Look, get your ass over here, I want to have you in this show!" And I said "Okay!" It was one of those night shoots, you get there at 8 and you leave at 5 in the morning.'"
In more recent news, 8X14 is called "This is Not Happening," written by Chris Carter and Frank Spotnitz, directed by Kim Manners. It is part 2 of 2; 8X08 is part 1. It starts shooting after winter hiatus--today was the last day of shooting before the break. It airs Feb. 25, 8X08 airs the week before on Feb. 18, and 8X10 and 8X12 air Jan. 14 and 21 respectively. "Hollywood A.D." will be rerun on Dec. 31. The OS has this to say about 8X14: "Past characters return while new ones debut...." We can safely assume this is Mulder's return. But Krycek? Covarrubias? CSM?? The Spender flashback CC hinted at? Kersh? TLG? The Bounty Hunter? One character we do know will return is Teresa Hoese from the pilot and "Requiem": "Scully, Doggett, and Skinner are in a hospital in Helena, Montana. They have gone there to see Teresa Hoese, who was 'returned' there 'hanging onto life by a thread.' When they go in with a doctor to see her, she is in very bad shape. The doctor tells them he hasn't seen this level of mistreatment in 12 years, and he believes someone was experimenting on her, possibly torturing her and trying to mutilate her. The script mentions that there's damage to her soft palate, her chest has been cut open and resealed, and organ tissue has been scooped away. (I noted that what's described in the script is exactly what we saw happening to Mulder in W/W.) All this eventually seems to be too upsetting or disturbing for Doggett, who leaves the room without a word. When Scully follows him out into the hallway, he's getting a drink and putting water on his face. She tells him, 'As upsetting as this is, I think there's reason for hope here.' Later, the doctor apparently is revealed to either be a bad guy, or it looks like the ABH may be impersonating him because he's arranging to have Teresa transferred to another facility even though her condition is very bad." In other episode news, 8X09 is called "Surekill": It's about "two brothers...one sees through things...one brother is not too kind, you could say, and is the brains behind the duo. The other, the big kind one, is the one who sees. They use it for good...in an odd way...and for bad." And I'm really looking forward to 8X10 now--it seems really interesting: "I think...it's about a man who dies but is somehow brought back as he slowly turns into Metal!Man. I know that's vague, but I haven't gotten those key explanations yet. I do know it has something to do with Southside Salvage and some ways of saving money. But, I haven't quite figured out the connection. But, Metal!Man is Ray and is slowly turning into this monster. If I was a bettin' woman, I would say it has the feel of a Frankenstein...in the Mary Shelley sense. The sadness of the creation...the loneliness...and the apparent horror that comes with it. A very serious ep."
In OS news, I saw this one coming when I read somewhere that 1stup.com was going bankrupt. Well the upshot is that the free XF ISP is no more. The message at the OS says that they're looking at other services though. The news page also has some info on GA's PSA. Not to mention the way-cool Episode Guide Brain, which is basically a new way to navigate the ep guide. Very impressive. On Sunday "Via Negativa" airs, and it should be one of the best eps so far this season. Here is the print ad. On the topic of DVDs, someone on the newsgroup made an interesting discovery. I haven't seen "Ascension" on the DVD yet, but apparently they forgot to put in the revised opening sequence with the "Deny Everything" tagline after the teaser. Instead, it says "The Truth is Out There." Strangely, though, I have seen "Anasazi" on DVD and its changed tagline is there. Ah well. In other news, XF card collectors rejoice: "Card sets based on the fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth seasons of The X-Files are to be made by the company Inkworks, with a scheduled release date of April [2001]." Click here for official info. Finally, here's some good ratings news: "Fox owned Sunday's demographics, winning over second-place ABC by a commanding 6 shares. The biggest blow came at 7 p.m. with a football overrun that scored a 14.8 rating, 24 share in metered-market households, the third-best overrun overnights of the football season. But all Fox components contributed last night, and the network won each of its six half-hours among adults 18-49."
Sources: Haven for the FBI's Most Unwanted, The X-Files Merchandise Web Site, and Encore: The Ultimate Mark Snow Site.
12/8/2000
Sorry for the infrequency of updates lately. Today's has plenty of upcoming episode info, starting with 8X13: "An organism that consumes flesh is in the tunnels of the Boston subway system. Scully & Doggett investigate along with the CDC." The standalones sound like they get better and better. More on the ep: "I just received some [info] for 8X13 (still untitled), which does indeed appear to take place almost entirely in the tunnels of the Boston T system. It looks like a standard MOTW, involving some kind of flesh-eating algae that has seeped into the tunnels from the Boston Bay because of the big dig--the algae gets on people and then is killed by a chemical reaction triggered by human sweat, which in turn causes some byproduct of the algae to consume itself and anything it's touching (including the human flesh). At one point, Doggett gets trapped down there while Scully's up above trying to figure out how to help him and the others he's with. It looks like there are at least a couple of heavy gore scenes with flesh burned away from someone's body down to a 'bloody bone.' Yuck. Looks like it might be a good ep--though what I have of it reads a little like 'Darkness Falls' meets the Flukeman's sewer." And: "The most interesting thing I see is that Scully is still calling Doggett 'Agent Doggett' or just 'Agent.' ...There's also a good line where a nonbeliever cop asks Doggett what a 'real cop' like him is doing on the X-files and dismisses what he's hearing from D&S as 'paranormal mumbojumbo,' and Doggett later tells him that he's been on TXF for 3 months now, 'and I can tell you this much. You'd be wise to put your faith in Agent Scully, just like I am.'" Now more on the new character in 8X14: "The X-Files is casting for an 'Agent Karen Miller' for episode 14. She's described in the breakdowns as 'attractive,' late 20s to early 30s, and the breakdown says she's spiritual, and 'this may make her more open to the paranormal,' but she's still very grounded. Strange description maybe, but that was the gist of it. Don't know if this is the new female agent or not. Reports say the part is listed as 'Guest Star' rather than as 'Recurring' or 'Lead.'" My guess is that Chris Carter is writing this one, and that 8X13 may be another David Amann or Vince Gilligan episode and 8X12 John Shiban's first solo ep since "S.R. 819." At least I hope this is true. I also have more general spoilers for the season, and if you're not sure DO NOT READ THESE because there is a possibly very spoiling bit in here that could ruin the end of the season or not (it's kind of obvious but then again this isn't what some people were expecting): Krycek and Marita will be back big-time for the second half of the season, Scully gives birth in the finale, and it appears that RP is signed for a season 9, although before this was referred to as only an "option."
I was so happy with "Invocation," which I believe is David Amann's best effort (although I love "Rush") and the best standalone in a while. Richard Compton did a fantastic job, with possibly the best recreation of what Vancouver did for seasons 1-5 in L.A. I was totally fooled--this could have been before the move to Cali. There was good action, memorable music, and an unpredictable plot. Just the right amount was answered. I do think they could have found a better actress for Billy's mother though. Strangely, the original location of Dexter, Michigan was changed to Dexter, Oklahoma. Wonder why. Also the 1013 logo is back to the bigger text again! I am even more intrigued about Doggett now--it seems his son (named Luke in the official Fox credits) was kidnapped, making his career choice pretty clear. Maybe we'll get more on this in "Via Negativa." But before that comes "Redrum," the print ad for which is here. "Invocation" got an 8.2/12 rating. BTW, the season 2 DVD set is fantastic--the cut X scene with the original actress is especially memorable, and so is "Humbug"'s hilarious deleted scene. Speaking of DVDs, season 1 is on DVD in Australia and the U.K. now, and there are apparently some differences in the packaging and some more extras. I don't know what they are though. This is a picture of the Australian packaging--I couldn't notice any differences but apparently they are there. At the season 2 DVD site, which is now fixed, there are new Internet ads for the official site and the season 1 DVDs. In OS news, the Flash intro is back to the original TXF logo, and pictures from the first X-Props winner's trip to the set are up as promised as well as Nick Lea talking about Vertical Limit.
I've heard that DD's daughter Madelaine West is sick, but I have no other details. Let's hope for the best. Want to help a fellow X-Phile in need in Serbia? Click here for more info. Finally, GA was on Ultimate Auction on Fox yesterday, reading from an original text of The Night Before Christmas being auctioned off.
Sources: Haven for the FBI's Most Unwanted and The X-Files Merchandise Web Site.
12/2/2000
Where to start? Today's update is such a mix of random XF news. How about the 2000 yearbook, which I just picked up. There are 3 new articles, which gave a few tidbits. The Brian Thompson article hinted that the Bounty Hunter would be in February sweeps. And TLG's new character Jimmy's full name is Jimmy Bond (get it?). I was mistaken when I speculated that Jimmy the Geek from "Three of a Kind" would show up in the LG pilot: I forgot that he died in the episode! It's not Timmy the Geek either because he ended up being a fake. But I correctly recognized him in the preview of the pilot, because the actor who plays Jimmy the Geek, Jim Fyfe, plays Kimmy the Geek in it. Now speaking of TLG, CC said in a recent interview that five, not four, episodes (including the pilot) would show in XF's timeslot this spring. CC also dropped something very interesting: "I have this idea that I think Harsh Realm was underappreciated and mistreated, so there is a way I may be able to resurrect it. I actually have an idea how to do that but I have to be secretive about it, so I'm not going to tell you more just yet." Wowee! Also in the cool department are cut scenes from "Within" and "Without"! Something very interesting is that in a version of the "Within" script, Doggett was referred to several times as Agent White--his original name?? For some reason, the scene where Doggett meets the Lone Gunmen in Mulder's office is not in those pages. That scene can be seen in the cut scene clips from "Within" that I posted a while back.
FoxFlash has "Via Negativa" pictures up already. The Haven should have them up too. At the OS, the Vince chat transcript is up and the secret prop was revealed, confirming my guess that it is Mulder's nameplate! Vince revealed in the chat that both TXF and TLG are using a (different) female director for an episode. He also mentioned a new member of the LG writing staff, Nandi Bowe. Anyway...with the season 2 DVDs out, a cool thing about the cut scenes included is that one of them has the ORIGINAL X, played by Natalija Nogulich, in "Sleepless." This was before the Wongs intervened and lobbied for Steven Williams to have the part. Williams later dubbed over X's phone call to Mulder in "The Host." "Invocation" tomorrow looks wonderfully spooky, and here is the print ad. BTW the ratings for "Roadrunners" are in: 8.2/12 preliminary and 7.3/15 for the 18-49 demo. Speaking of which: "Discussing the November ratings sweeps with reporters Tuesday, Fox chairman Sandy Grushow singled out Ally McBeal's David E. Kelley for breathing new life into the drama. [Gail] Berman praised Chris Carter for doing the same for The X-Files. Of note, since some thought both shows might be on their last legs. Viewers have taken to new XF lead Robert Patrick, and Berman predicts the show 'has the potential to add a couple more years to its life.'" I will end with this sad bit of XF-related news.
Source: Haven for the FBI's Most Unwanted
11/27/2000
I am liking Doggett more and more. "Roadrunners" gave us some of the most disturbing scenes with the most gore in several years. And judging from the reactions in the newsgroup, it is one of the more controversial episodes. Which is great. This is what XF is all about--going to the extremes. It was almost an eerie scene, seeing that bus speed down the road to seemingly nowhere. Back to the S/D relationship, it has certainly developed since we first met Doggett. I think Vince was purposely testing the shippers to see the reaction to Doggett carrying Scully to safety. Great writing and directing all around. Did anyone notice Doggett's call to Danny? There goes the Danny=Pendrell theory. Also 1013 is back again to the smaller Ten Thirteen screens.
To the news! There has been a minor schedule change, with "Redrum" now airing before "Via Negativa." Official magazine #16 is out, and the yearbook should be in newsstands also. Next issue is due in February. The fan club site also updated with some new scripts etc. In the magazine Frank Spotnitz shed some light on Mulder appearances: "He'll be in at least two episodes before he is found, but these are flashbacks. He'll be in an episode in January, and he'll be in an episode again in February. I mean, that's the plan. That could change still." Also in the magazine was a preview of "Via Negativa," which sounds amazing, and more info on upcoming OS events. For example, the online game is scheduled to debut this month with a "teaser." Three more "episodes" are planned for subsequent months. The Lone Gunmen will be in the game, plus there will be a community forum for players. The mag has a screen shot. Speaking of games, the season 2 DVD-ROM game is called Unholy Alliances. Back to the OS, the Episode Guide Brain, which we heard about before, is kind of like the Mytharc Tracker but for episodes: you can get lists of episodes containing a certain theme, character, or location. More info on the tools and space for fan pages is that links to all of them will be put onto a special fan page. Also in the future, 1013 Internet producer Robin Benty plans to concentrate on international fans with exclusive contests and international pages. In the nearer future: the Vince chat is tomorrow at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. Anyway the "Via Negativa" story in the magazine went very in-depth. It seems we'll learn a lot about Doggett and there will be a lot of development for his character. It involves the third eye belief and dreams, and Scully is away for most of the episode. Well, obviously the Thanksgiving marathon is over. Starting today the facts and clips for each hour are available without the codes. On the topic of XF events, the auction is also over.
More info on "The Gift," very very interesting: "The teaser for ep 11 starts out with a MAN shooting at a monster in a house. The camera does not show the face of the MAN. The MAN returns to his car, and it turns out that it is MULDER! According to the script 'tears shine in his eyes.' This is a flashback to last year. Apparently the trips to Raleigh [mentioned in 'Within'] were actually trips to PA, where Mulder was investigating an Indian folk legend [the soul-eater]. Scully is not in the ep very much. She is apparently bedridden. There is no more info on that though. Doggett & Skinner go to investigate the monster. The sheriff tells them that Mulder was there last year, and that [Mulder] was a nutcase. That [Mulder] believed an ancient Indian legend ate a woman. Doggett & Skinner then proceed to go after the monster while the whole town seems to be keeping something from them. In one scene the monster vomits up a 'new' person." Wow. In Internet address news, the season 2 DVD set official site is up (somewhat--most of the front page's pictures are gone) at www.xfilesseason2dvd.com. By the same token, www.xfilesseason3dvd.com has been registered but only links to Fox Home right now; so does www.xfilesseason1dvd.com for some reason.... Finally for today, the "Roadrunners" print ad is here.
Source: Haven for the FBI's Most Unwanted
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