Mulder, Scully, and Skinner in The X-Files

Not many television series have fans who yearly celebrate the premiere of the pilot episode, or characters birthdays, or remain passionate about the series eighteen years after its premiere.  The X-Files has the distinction of having long time fans dating back to the beginning of the series, while continuing to draw new fans who are just discovering the intellectual and emotional thrill of the series.

Today is one of those red-letter calendar days for a “Phile,” the term used for fans of The X-Files.” Eighteen years ago today, those who were fortunate to have FOX on their cable systems (it wasn’t until 1993 that FOX had seven nights of programming!) were instantly hooked by the Pilot of the series.  This series was FOX’s first one to make it into Nielson’s Top 20.

The X-Files became a pop culture phenomenen, with catch phrases from the show peppering conversations, such as “Trust No One, I Want to Believe, or The Truth is Out There.”  Red headed female detectives on future shows are often compared to Scully, as are characters who are hard-headed doubters.  Mulder was known someone consumed with a quest for truth at the expense of everything, yet always ready with a quip.  The banter between the two characters was an integral part of the show.

And of course, there was the sizzling chemistry between Gillian Anderson and David Duchovny as Mulder and Scully.  Each week millions of viewers watched for a single touch that would indicate undying loyalty and love, while others were labeled as “No-Romo” and were afraid that a romance between the two would cause the down-fall of the show.

The X-Files has episodes considered some of the finest in television history.   Clyde Bruckman’s Final Repose consistently is listed as one such example.  Post-Modern Prometheus, Home, and others can be found on such lists.

The series has the distinction of a long standing ‘myth-arc’ or mythology, yet MOTW (Monster of the Week) episodes were equally outstanding.  The comedic episodes, introduced in season two, became fan favorites though fans continued to love the dark drama found in the series.   The show spawned a mini-series, The Lone Gunmen, and two movies.

A third movie, dubbed X-Files 3, by fans and journalists is rumored and eagerly anticipated.  Gillian Anderson, David Duchovny, Frank Spotnitz, and Chris Carter have all referred to such a movie and indicated they are ready for production to be given the greenlight by FOX.   With 2012 looming next year, the mythology of the series is perfect fodder for a new movie.

For this year’s anniversary of the premiere of the pilot episode, and also to show desire for a third movie, fans are joining in a Twitter campaign to post their desire for another movie.  To join, use #XF3 to text.

To share your favorite memory of The X-Files, go to http://xfilesuniverse.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=1867&sid=7d3e71335c36de5d46ba62eb6d11716a and post!