As we get into the "swing" of baseball season, I thought it was about time to revisit this episode of The X-Files, which was written and directed by David Duchovny.
I think what sets this episode apart from many others in the series is the genuine admiration the writing shows towards its subject. Duchovny very clearly has a deep passion for baseball and found a way to seamlessly incorporate a classic baseball tale into a X-Files alien twist. This episode works as a standalone better than perhaps any episode, while also contributing valuable details to the overall mythology.
The performances by the main cast are excellent throughout, and the honesty with which this story is told lend it absolutely legitimacy. Any baseball fan, regardless of opinion on the X-Files, should absolutely watch this episode of television. There is a certain romance and magic within the sport of baseball that cannot be found in even the most vivid fairy tale. Incorporating a sci-fi element seems almost natural when telling a story about such an integral part of American history.
The humor is spot on throughout, but what is really impactful is the emotion. It's hard to watch without getting choked up.
I would have easily loved this story even more if it was twice as long, but I'm thankful for the glorious 42 minutes it has to offer.
I think what sets this episode apart from many others in the series is the genuine admiration the writing shows towards its subject. Duchovny very clearly has a deep passion for baseball and found a way to seamlessly incorporate a classic baseball tale into a X-Files alien twist. This episode works as a standalone better than perhaps any episode, while also contributing valuable details to the overall mythology.
The performances by the main cast are excellent throughout, and the honesty with which this story is told lend it absolutely legitimacy. Any baseball fan, regardless of opinion on the X-Files, should absolutely watch this episode of television. There is a certain romance and magic within the sport of baseball that cannot be found in even the most vivid fairy tale. Incorporating a sci-fi element seems almost natural when telling a story about such an integral part of American history.
The humor is spot on throughout, but what is really impactful is the emotion. It's hard to watch without getting choked up.
I would have easily loved this story even more if it was twice as long, but I'm thankful for the glorious 42 minutes it has to offer.