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7x21 Original Air Date: November 7, 1999 – May 21, 2000
Season 7 of The X-Files is a pivotal one for the series. As David Duchovny’s contract was nearing its end, rumors swirled that it might be the final season, creating a sense of closure and finality in many of the episodes. The season delves deeper into the alien mythology arc, while continuing to explore innovative standalone stories. With a mix of long-awaited resolutions, quirky humor, and emotional depth, Season 7 marks a unique chapter in the history of the show.
Season 7 stands out for its attempts to tie up several long-running storylines, especially within the overarching alien mythology. Mulder and Scully’s relationship reaches new levels of complexity, and the season explores themes of closure, personal beliefs, and loyalty. Although it features memorable "monster-of-the-week" episodes, much of the focus is on unraveling the mysteries at the heart of the series, particularly those surrounding Mulder’s quest for the truth about his sister’s abduction.
The season also experiments with more unconventional storytelling, including episodes that explore alternate realities, humor, and metaphysical concepts. At the same time, there is a sense of nostalgia, as the series reflects on its long run and prepares for potential endings.
David Duchovny continues his portrayal of FBI Special Agent Fox Mulder, though with an air of finality. Mulder’s quest for the truth about extraterrestrials and the government conspiracy seems to come to a head this season. He finally learns the fate of his sister Samantha, bringing closure to one of the longest-running plotlines in the series. However, as Mulder’s personal quest reaches a resolution, his involvement in the X-Files becomes increasingly uncertain.
Gillian Anderson’s performance as Dana Scully continues to evolve in Season 7. Scully’s relationship with Mulder deepens, both professionally and personally, and the season hints at a romantic connection between the two agents. As Mulder’s search for the truth intensifies, Scully grapples with her own beliefs and her role within the X-Files. Her skepticism is challenged in new ways, particularly as the duo confronts otherworldly phenomena and government cover-ups.
Season 7 emphasizes the idea of closure, particularly in relation to Mulder’s quest to find his sister. After years of searching, Mulder finally discovers the truth about Samantha’s abduction in the emotionally charged episode "Closure." The theme of finality also extends to other aspects of the series, as Mulder and Scully begin to question their future in the X-Files and where their journey will ultimately lead them.
The interplay between belief and skepticism remains a central theme in Season 7. Scully continues to wrestle with her scientific understanding of the world while encountering phenomena that defy explanation. Mulder, whose beliefs have always driven him, now faces the challenge of what comes after the discovery of the truth. Faith, both in terms of religion and personal conviction, plays a significant role in several episodes.
Season 7 pushes the boundaries of traditional storytelling by exploring alternate realities and metaphysical concepts. Episodes like "Amor Fati" and "all things" delve into themes of destiny, choice, and the human mind’s power to shape reality. These episodes take a more philosophical approach, inviting viewers to reflect on the nature of existence and the choices that define us.
While Season 7 is often heavy in terms of its mythology, it also includes some of the most lighthearted and comedic episodes of the series. Episodes like "Hollywood A.D." and "Je Souhaite" offer a meta-commentary on the show itself and the concept of storytelling, adding a self-reflective layer to the season. The blend of humor and introspection gives the season a unique tone.
Season 7 kicks off with a two-part episode that continues the story from the Season 6 finale. Mulder’s exposure to an ancient alien artifact has left him catatonic, but also with heightened psychic abilities. As Scully races to find a cure, Mulder enters a dream state in which he envisions an alternate life. "Amor Fati," co-written by David Duchovny, explores themes of destiny, free will, and the allure of escaping from reality. It is a surreal, contemplative episode that sets the tone for much of the season.
One of the most experimental episodes of the series, "X-Cops" is a crossover with the reality show Cops. Shot in the style of a handheld documentary, Mulder and Scully investigate a monster terrorizing a neighborhood, but the episode plays out as a real-time TV show. The format adds an extra layer of humor and suspense, making it one of the most creative episodes of the series.
In "Closure," Mulder finally learns the truth about his sister’s disappearance. After years of searching, he discovers that Samantha was abducted by the government but later taken by benevolent extraterrestrial beings who helped her escape her suffering. The episode is a deeply emotional one, providing a sense of peace for Mulder while also offering closure to one of the series’ longest-running mysteries.
Written and directed by Gillian Anderson, "all things" is a meditative episode that focuses on Scully’s personal journey. The episode explores Scully’s past relationship with a mentor and her contemplation of the choices she’s made in life. It is a deeply introspective episode, filled with spiritual and philosophical musings, and offers a rare glimpse into Scully’s inner world.
Directed by David Duchovny, "Hollywood A.D." is a humorous, meta-textual episode that follows Mulder and Scully as they consult on a Hollywood film about their work. The episode plays with the conventions of filmmaking and the portrayal of Mulder and Scully in popular culture, offering a lighthearted and self-aware look at the world of Hollywood.
The season (and potentially series) finale, "Requiem," brings Mulder and Scully back to the site of their very first case from the pilot episode. They are drawn back into the alien conspiracy when a UFO crashes in the forest, reigniting Mulder’s investigation. The episode ends on a major cliffhanger, as Mulder is abducted by aliens, leaving his fate uncertain. "Requiem" serves as both a reflection on the series’ origins and a setup for future storylines.
Season 7 received mixed reviews from critics and fans. While many praised the resolution of long-standing plotlines like Samantha’s abduction, others felt that the season lacked the tension and focus of earlier seasons. The lighter, more experimental episodes were appreciated by some for their creativity but criticized by others for straying too far from the show’s darker roots.
The season’s mythology episodes, particularly "The Sixth Extinction" and "Closure," were met with a generally positive reception, as they offered long-awaited answers. However, some viewers were frustrated by the ambiguous nature of the series finale, "Requiem," especially given the uncertainty surrounding David Duchovny’s future involvement with the show.
Season 7 is remembered as a turning point in the history of The X-Files. It provided resolution to some of the series’ most significant storylines, including the truth about Samantha’s fate, while also pushing the boundaries of the show’s storytelling style. Mulder and Scully’s relationship deepened, and the season experimented with a variety of tones, ranging from deeply philosophical to comedic.
With David Duchovny’s reduced involvement in future seasons, Season 7 is often viewed as the end of an era for the series. While it may not have the same dark, atmospheric intensity as the earlier seasons, it remains a memorable chapter in the X-Files saga for its creativity, emotional depth, and willingness to take risks.
