1.16 – E.B.E. – X-Files Review
“E.B.E.” is an effective and arresting tale about extra-terrestrials visiting Earth and, more importantly, about the government conspiracies in place to keep such information from reaching the general populace. The episode trots out some fairly familiar and common “close-encounter” tropes such as radios going haywire, blinding lights, and UFOs. But what sets the episode apart, aside from the quality of the familiar sequences, is how it uses them to explore the depths to which the truth is often couched in misinformation. As Scully says, “The truth is out there. But so are the lies.”
The episode’s title, “E.B.E.” is short for “Extra-terrestrial Biological Entity.” Thus, the central focus of the story is on Mulder’s quest to track down what he thinks is an alien, being held captive by the government. The twists and turns of the plot are nicely developed, helped along a great deal by the character of “Deep Throat” – the shadowy figure who has, at times, guided Mulder’s investigations. This episode, however, goes to great lengths to explore Deep Throat’s motivations – and even his trustworthiness. The fact that he becomes a source of disinformation not only develops his character further, but helps keep the plot churning right up until the very end.
Deep Throat’s revelation that he once killed an alien, while working for the CIA, also helps flesh out his motivations for helping Mulder. He admits his feelings of guilt over the matter and hopes, through the efforts of Mulder to expose the truth, to gain some measure of redemption. Deep Throat’s attempts at misdirection, then, are explain by his desire to keep Mulder out of harm’s way – especially considering the fact that the EBE was already dead.
Another solid addition to the episode is the group called The Lone Gunmen – three guys who publish a magazine filled with crazy and paranoid conspiracy theories. Their roguish personalities provide a nice measure of comedy to an otherwise ominous tale and, in fact, the group will go on to have recurring roles in the X-Files, even spawning their own short-lived series.
Finally, the relationship between Mulder and Scully really works well in the episode. Instead of sounding like they’re bickering, their back-and-forth dialogue carries genuine professionalism and caring for one another. Likewise, the way in which Scully looks out for Mulder’s best interests – by pointing out how his passions can be used against him – illustrates the depths of respect that the two have gained for one another.
Overall Grade: B+
“E.B.E.” is a classic X-Files episode. Featuring a strong alien and conspiracy story, helped by solid character work, and a good mystery, there’s plenty to enjoy.
Characters: Mystery, Sci-Fi, TV Reviews
Filed under: Season 1, X-files
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