“The X-Files: I Want to Believe” is mostly for those who are familiar with the TV series and with the 1998 movie “The X- Files.” Although director Chris Carter said that, when he made the movie, he was thinking also of those who hadn’t seen the series, there are some moments where, if you are a newcomer, you can get confused. For example, the relationship between agent Fox Mulder and agent Dana Scully remained pretty close at the end of the series, but now they are going on with their lives..separately..And then..they’re in bed together, talking about their dead son. Although this is more like a detail, the action, the characters and the paranormal stuff manage to blend in perfectly.

Mulder is like the old Mulder and he still can’t let go of the past, Scully has remained the same skeptical scientist, while the action makes some references about past episodes.

Dana Scully is practicing pediatric medicine at a Catholic hospital and Fox Mulder is living in a West Virginia cabin when the FBI approaches them in order to get their help. Agents Dakota Whitney and agent Mosley Drummy seek help from the former FBI agents in order to find a trace in a female’s disappearance. Soon, Mulder and Scully begin to talk to a former Catholic priest and convicted pedophile Father Joe about a series of kidnappings. Unfortunately their can only rely on the priest’s visions.

While the former FBI agents dig deeper into the mystery, they also have to face their own issues, including their relationship and the loss of their baby. Scully also tries to find a cure for a boy who is her patient and has a rare brain disease.

Regarding the chill you get from the paranormal and spooky parts, the movie is worth it. In fact, the movie is worth it because the script is smart and knows exactly when the action should get intense and when it should cool down.

The chemistry between Mulder and Scully is still there and nothing seems forced or unnatural. While Amanda Peet and Xzibit are not that convincing, David Duchovny, Gillian Anderson and Billy Connolly put on quite a show.

“The X-Files: I Want to Believe” lives up to the fans’ expectations and also convinces newcomers to get Season one of the TV series and get addicted to it. The movie captures the feel of the series and its atmosphere gives you chills on your back.

Let’s hope that David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson will keep their promise and make another sequel.

“The X- Files: I Want To Believe” is based on the television series.
Director: Chris Carter
Writers: Frank Spotnitz, Chris Carter
Director of photography: Bill Roe
Edited by Richard A. Harris
Music by Mark Snow
Production designer: Mark Freeborn
Released by 20th Century Fox
Running time: 1 hour 44 minutes
Release Date: 25 July 2008

Cast: David Duchovny (Fox Mulder), Gillian Anderson (Dana Scully), Amanda Peet (Dakota Whitney), Billy Connolly (Father Joseph Crissman), Alvin Xzibit Joiner (Agent Mosley Drummy).

“The X-Files: I Want to Believe” is rated PG-13 (Parents strongly cautioned)