**NOTE: Since writing this review, I have had the chance to view Existence again. I have to say that I now have a very different opinion of it. I think I must have been partially distracted (either that or on crack LOL) while watching this ep the first time around, so I wasn't paying attention to the plot details. While there are some aspects of Existence that are good--for instance, the character performances of Skinner and Doggett--in the last few minutes, the mythology is once again altered to be unrecognizable. A few other things about it irked me greatly, but it's really too late to go into all of that now. After the second viewing, I found myself to be more than a little miffed by it all. This has prompted me to change the rating for this episode to a 4, and I feel that is being generous. However, I'm leaving my original review as is. Watch it again to see if you pick up anything different.

What now?

(I'm very tired tonight, gang, so please pardon my possible incoherentness).

Existence is a pretty decent episode. So, where to begin? I admit I'm afraid to touch the mythology in this one. All I'll say at this point is that it appears we have two new rivals to deal with, rivals who are in alliegiance with AD Kersh. It also appears that colonization is further along than anyone, perhaps even Krycek, had originally suspected. But beyond that, all I'll say is that I think we have reason to fear. Nothing is as it seems :-)

Well, I think I could write an epic about Existence, but as I'm literally still trying to absorb what we've witnessed, it will probably suffice for me to touch only on the major issues :-) In that case, I'll start with Reyes.

I think, finally, we're beginning to see her true colours come through. I was still wary of her in the early segments, but based on some of her actions in this episode, I'm almost convinced now that her loyalities are genuine. Her past may still be obscure, but at least she appears to be a creditable ally; an important fact, now that Doggett has assigned her to the X-Files of his own accord. As a character, she's not perfectly rounded yet, but I believe she at least has potential. Everything else aside, at least with her psychic abilities, she may prove to be a very interesting addition to the X-Files indeed.

Next issue, and though it pains me deeply to talk about it, Krycek's death. Perhaps Krycek's motivations for stopping colonization were purely self-interested, but all the same, you have to admire this man for his gritty convictions, and for his devotion. His devotion, at least, did not die.
I have to say that I was rather shook up by Krycek's death. I've always liked this character, but I didn't realize how attached I was to him until he took his final breath.

Alas, Mr. Krycek will be missed. The noble villian has finally met his match. Why must the beautiful always die so young?

Moving on, Scully's baby. Again, no truly concrete answers. Is it Mulder's? Signs might point to yes, but a definite answer remains elusive. As for the nature of the baby? It doesn't seem to be what anyone expected, the colonizers least of all... unless this is only what they want us to think. Perhaps this will be a central issue for next season? It's hard to say. In general, I'll admit I've been a little iffy about "Scully baby" storyline since the beginning, but I still feel an explanation is warrented. Hopefully we'll get some answers in season 9.

Now, I come to the last crucial issue. The future? Well, I am, as usual, immensely impressed with Doggett's actions. I love his take-charge attitude at the end of this one. The man definitely puts Kersh in his place. As head of the X-Files division now, I think we can be assured that Doggett will excercise his new-found authority rather splendidly... of course, almost anything John Boy does is splendid in my books, but that is another matter entirely :-)

As for the future in terms of Mulder? Well gang, I know many of you are worried about this, but rest assured, this episode was not a requiem for Mulder. On the contrary, Mulder remains very much a central figure. There is nothing in this one that might indicate that he is stepping out of the big picture. This said, how to deal with DD's probable absence next season? I remind everyone that while Mulder was not physically present for most of this season, he certainly wasn't absent either. In this sense, it is my theory that Mulder will remain a central character, just not a character that we "see" on a regular basis. In other words, he may not be present, but he certainly won't be forgotten. On that note, I have to say that the writers did manage to work around Duchovny's absense very well this season. It felt a little different, yes, but I think I speak for the majority of viewers when I say that the experience was largely positive (and definitely very positive for Doggett fans *giggle*). It is thus my theory that the writers will likely approach the issue of Mulder's absense similarly next season--he may be gone, but he certainly won't be forgotten... and he definitely won't be forgotten if you recall that DD is signed for future X-Files feature films :-) This said, as far as season 9 goes in general, I have to say that given the fact that season 8 has been so spectacular, we might be in for a treat next year. If nothing else, that should at least pique some interest for those who remain in doubt :-)

Anyway, gang, I must continue to say how impressed I have been with season 8 in general, and with the season finale. The only thing that didn't sit extremely well with me in this ep was the biblical overtones. Nice as far as symbolism goes, but much too contrived to feel like an authentic part of the plot, what with the star and the three wise men and all that jazz. But beyond that, Existence does rank among the best, as far as season finales go. In general, this episode is full of emotion, thrills, drama and suspense. Definitely worth another viewing.

Well gang, this ends a great season. Since it's not a cliff-hanger per se, we won't be tearing our hair out over the summer, for once *giggle* Again, I have to say that season 8 has been a pleasure... the quality of the writing, Doggett *giggle* Definitely one of the best seasons the series has produced. On this note, I have great expectations for season 9. With that, I sign off for another season. Have a great summer everyone, and feel free to drop me a line any time!

Squall's rating: 4

Just another way to piss people off...

Well gang, I apologize in advance, but I'm going to have to be exceptionally brief tonight. I was at work tonight until almost 11:00 pm, and I have only now been able to watch the ep... and I admit my brain is a little fried at the moment :-) But, as I do make it a point to refrain from making broad statements during the first half of mytharc episodes anyway, my compromised mental capacity shouldn't hurt this review too much :-) In other words, I'll have much more to say next week, once we've seen the conclusion, and when I have a lot more time on my hands :-)

Anyway, straight to the point. This is a decent episode. Essence is fueled by suspence and urgency; you actually feel the characters' rising sense of panic as the ep churns on. Definitely high on the emotional scale.

This said, however, as is perpetually the case with mytharcs, many more questions are raised than answered here; mainly, the question of the paternity of Scully's baby. Yeah, you've all heard my whining in this department, what with giant hints being dropped by no concrete evidence revealed.. The difference tonight, however, is that it is suggested that no one, not even Scully or Krycek himself, really has a clue where this child came from. Even Mulder, a believer in the paranormal, but a self-proclaimed atheist, is willing to attribute the baby's existence to an act of God. Alas, it appears we'll have to wait at least another week before this mystery is unraveled.
One interesting thing to note, though. Skinner goes almost as far as asking Mulder if he could be the father. While Mulder doesn't devulge any information, it is interesting to note that he doesn't deny it, either. Sure, this kid may be a miracle, but I wouldn't go as far as to say that I think it's an immaculate conception. But then again, that could just be wishful thinking on my part :-)

Next item on the agenda (and I'm skipping way ahead here) Krycek. As drop dead gorgeous as the guy may be, I have to admit I have my suspicions. Trust him? I wouldn't trust this guy as far as I could throw him. For all of you hopefuls who may be thinking that Krycek is finally swinging over to the "good" side, I'd hold off the celebrating for the moment. John Boy and Skinner are right to be wary. There's indeed something rotten in the state of Denmark :-)

Anyway gang, I realize that this review is pathetically short and rambly, but I'm really out of time this evening. I promise I'll have tons more to say next week, once I've seen the conclusion, and when I'm not rushing home from work at 10:45 :-) I apologize again, gang. This ep deserves much more time than I can afford it.

Squall's Rating: 6

You need someone there to watch your back...

Well gang, yet another great episode. Alone is driven by general creepiness, some great references to past classics, wonderful character dynamics, and a touching tribute to X-Files fans. Indeed, season 8 continues to impress me, and as we are nearing the end of it, I think I can now say, without a doubt, that it is definitely rounding out to be one of the best seasons of the series. At least in my opinion, anyway.

Well, I'm going to jump right to my favourite subject. Ah yes. Finally tonight, we see the tables turned. It's about damn time Scully showed some appreciation for Mr. Doggett! :-) For months, the man has gone out on a limb for her, helped her without being asked, without expecting anything in return. But it is only now that Doggett receives recognition for his efforts. In a touching moment, Scully shows fondness for Doggett, sincerely thanking him for all he has done for her, and by doing so, also sneaks in a subtle apology for not articulating her appreciation sooner. Definte a fine moment between the two of them. In fact, this is a scene between these two characters that has been due for quite a while, and I'm pleased with the way it went over. It wasn't over-done, nor was it too subtle. Definitely some great writing here.

Scully's appreciation for Doggett is not restricted to this one scene. Reluctantly bowing out of work, she begins to fear for Agent Doggett, knowing that he is alone with no one to watch his back--an essential element of a partnership, and the only reason, as Scully concedes, that she is still standing on her own two feet. Though Doggett is teamed with eager Agent Leyla Harrison (and for those of you who don't know, Harrison is named for fanfic writer Leyla Harrison, and appears on the episode as a touching tribute to all XF fans *S*), Harrison lacks the expertise and experience to really be a sutable match, and in the end, needs more protecting herself, as opposed to being around to offer Doggett some protection.

And indeed, Scully's concerns are realized when Doggett and Harrison go missing in the field. She sends Mulder after Doggett, and can't herself stay away from the Bureau for more than a few hours. Interestingly, it is only with teamwork--Mulder and Scully with the classic phone connection, and Doggett and Harrison down below--that Dogget and Harrison arrive home safely. Indeed, it is a necessity to have someone watch your back.

Though the importance of partnership is the main focus of Alone, the ending sequences, and the title, suggest a bitter truth for Doggett. Even out of the FBI, Mulder has Scully and Scully has Mulder. The two chatter and joke with Harrison, in tones that resemble those of a long-married couple. Doggett, however, has no one to turn to. Though I believe he is finally on good terms with both Mulder and Scully, in terms of his work and his life, he seems very much alone. (my poor, poor John :-( *G*)

Though the characters and partnership itself is the main focus of this episode, I have to say I loved the concept of the reptile man. Creepy :-) Definitely some overtones of Detour here--though I'm sure these were included deliberately for avid fans, the similarities being pointed out by Harrison. And while on the topic of fans, the writers have gone to great lengths to ensure that Alone includes subtle and not-so-subtle references to the likes of Dreamland, Tooms, Sixth Extinction, Tempus Fugit, Quagmire, and FTF. (And I'm sure if you watch it again, you'll pick up a few more *G*). Also addressed--but not answered--is the enduring question of the snow cat; indeed, how did our favourite agents get back across the icy plains of Antarctica without any gas? :-) Ah, just another mystery of the X-Files that will likely never be resolved. I have to say I very much enjoyed the tribute to the fans. It seems that those associated with the show are paying just as much attention to us as we are to them :-)

Anyway gang, I could say more, but I'm out of time for tonight. Sorry if this was a little choppy! Alone is definitely a great ep, and worth a second viewing. Another outstanding episode from an outstanding season.

Squall's Rating: 8

For more episode reviews, see the following archive directories. Note: also included in the archives is an explanation of the rating/classification scale I use for the eps!

Season 8
Season 7
Season 6
Season 5