How will Fox update 'The X-Files' in its miniseries revival?
The cult 1990s series will return to the small screen with six new episodes, which are set to enter production this summer. But how will writers and producers update "The X-Files," a highly influential show that defined an era?
For Fox, there's a lot at stake in this "X-Files" revival, which already has the internet abuzz with speculation. Will the network seek to acquaint a new generation of viewers with its quintessential cult series? Or will it cater instead to first-generation fans, perhaps by shedding light on a few long-unresolved mysteries?
Either way, the six episodes are certain to be action-packed. But, in light of the changes in the TV landscape since 2002, what type of storyline can we expect? A trailblazer in its day, Chris Carter's drama will require some adapting to today's world, with its overload of information and misinformation.
Conspiracy theories are everywhere
"The X-Files" debuted on the small screen in 1993 with the tagline "The truth is out there." Government cover-ups and lies featured throughout the episodes, driving the investigations of Fox Mulder, whose little sister was abducted by the aliens that had been colonizing Earth for several decades.
Today, thanks to the internet, theories of government and global conspiracies are more widespread than ever, and David Duchovny's character may not seem like such an outsider anymore. Particularly in the wake of revelations on the NSA's data collection practices, distrust of the US government is no longer synonymous with kooky paranoia.
Reinventing the premise
While "The X-Files" wasn't the first series to depict paranormal phenomena and alien invasions, its premise was nonetheless rather unusual in the 1990s, when the majority of serious dramas focused on doctors, cops or lawyers. In 2015, however, supernatural and fantasy themes have all but taken over small screen drama, as evidenced by the popularity of shows like "The Walking Dead" and "Game of Thrones."
"The X-Files" also broke the mold with its narrative structure, which included multiple ongoing sub-plots and questions left unanswered over several episodes, or even several seasons. This element has also become a staple of contemporary drama fare, as viewers of "Lost" and "Fringe" can attest.
