7 Most Underrated ‘The X-Files’ Episodes

The X-Files remains a truly iconic science fiction show, and many of its lesser-known episodes are surprisingly good. It’s hard for other shows to compare, even now, decades after the first episode in 1993. The series expertly blends aliens, monsters, and, most importantly, the compelling dynamic between Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson) and Fox Mulder (David Duchovny). It’s a classic case of opposites attracting, and while that trope can get old on other shows, The X-Files avoids that pitfall. The strong character development makes Scully and Mulder’s relationship consistently engaging and unique.

The X-Files originally ran for 11 seasons, and was briefly revived with new seasons in 2016 and 2018. The upcoming reboot directed by Ryan Coogler shows just how popular the show—and its characters Scully and Mulder—still are. Now’s a great time to revisit the series, as it’s currently available to stream for free on Pluto! While everyone has their favorite well-known episodes, like the serial killer story in “Beyond the Sea” and the monster in “The Host,” let’s shine a light on some underrated gems.

“The Rain King”

Season 6, Episode 8

Fox

It’s surprising that the episode “The Rain King” isn’t more widely discussed. The story centers around Sheila Fontaine and Daryl Mootz, an unusual pair who both believe they have the power to control the weather. While Sheila is distressed by this, Daryl enjoys the spotlight. It’s entertaining to watch Mulder genuinely question if their abilities are real.

This episode often gets a bad rap from fans, who generally find it cheesy and not a standout story. However, it’s worth watching for its sheer absurdity – like the time a cow crashed through Mulder’s ceiling! The X-Files isn’t afraid to get completely outlandish, and that’s part of what makes it enjoyable. Mulder has some particularly funny and expressive moments, and the episode also features a surprisingly touching romantic subplot, even if it isn’t everyone’s cup of tea.

“Darkness Falls”

Season 1, Episode 20

Fox

“Darkness Falls” isn’t an action-packed episode and doesn’t really advance the overall story. However, it’s a surprisingly good one, mainly because of its creepy plot involving giant, scary insects in the woods. If you’re afraid of bugs, this episode might be too much to handle – or maybe it’ll be a thrilling experience! Luckily, the insects are completely over-the-top, so you don’t need to worry about encountering them in real life.

You’ll find plenty of familiar faces in many episodes of The X-Files, whether you’re a longtime fan or a new viewer. “Darkness Falls” stands out because of Titus Welliver’s performance as the eco-terrorist Doug Spinney. While the story involving dangerous insects is a bit cheesy, the episode actually offers a thoughtful message about logging, environmental protection, and the importance of nature.

“Eve”

Season 1, Episode 11

Fox

Looking for a spooky episode with creepy kids, a memorable performance by the mysterious Deep Throat (Jerry Hardin), and a clone storyline? While episodes like “Squeeze” and “Tooms” are known for their terrifying serial killers, “Eve” really delivers a lot in one hour. Though sci-fi clichés and clone plots can sometimes fall flat, this episode pulls it off. Even if it doesn’t become your top pick, “Eve” provides satisfying answers and a well-rounded story.

Beyond the shocking reveal about “the Eves,” this episode really shines because of the funny back-and-forth between Scully and Mulder. While Mulder frequently presents theories Scully doubts, her reactions to his ideas are especially amusing in this installment.

“Space”

Season 1, Episode 9

Fox

Most fans consider the X-Files episode “Space” to be one of the show’s weakest. It has a relatively low IMDb rating of 6.2/10, and the story is generally seen as disappointing. If you’re new to the series, longtime viewers will probably recommend skipping it, or at least warn you that it’s not a fan favorite.

This episode isn’t a complex story about space travel. Although Scully and Mulder investigate problems with rocket launches and the danger to astronauts, the episode mainly centers on a minor character, Lieutenant Colonel Belt. His story isn’t particularly important, but the episode is surprisingly enjoyable. It definitely has a different feel than most ‘X-Files’ episodes, and that’s exactly why it’s worth revisiting.

“Jump the Shark”

Season 9, Episode 15

Fox

This episode of The X-Files is surprisingly fun because it fully embraces the idea of a show going downhill – what people call “jumping the shark.” When a TV series “jumps the shark,” it starts to feel strange, illogical, and often just plain bad. You’re left watching, confused about why the characters and the show itself have changed so much for the worse.

The episode title is a bit playful, but the story itself has a surprisingly dark conclusion for the characters known as The Lone Gunmen: John Fitzgerald Byers, Melvin Frohike, and Ringo Langly. These three appeared in their own short-lived spin-off series, The Lone Gunmen, which ran for 13 episodes in 2001. The episode also features a bizarre subplot involving shark organs – it’s as unsettling as it sounds and will keep you hooked. Written by Vince Gilligan, the creator of shows like Pluribus, this X-Files episode deserves more recognition, if only for his involvement.

“Trevor”

Season 6, Episode 17

Fox

Episodes like “The Host” and “Squeeze” often get a lot of attention, but “Trevor” is another exceptional one. It effectively blends action and heartfelt moments, culminating in a very rewarding conclusion. The story begins with a grim and evocative prison farm in Mississippi, marked by the violent death of a warden. As the investigation centers on inmate Pinker (played by John Diehl), the episode unveils his hidden past, offering a clear look at how Scully and Mulder tackle investigations differently.

Subscribe for X-Files deep dives and underrated episode picks

Craving more underrated X-Files insights? Subscribe to the newsletter to get curated episode spotlights, fresh takes on Scully and Mulder dynamics, and recommended rewatches that deepen your enjoyment of sci-fi TV and cult classics.

By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s

and

. You can unsubscribe anytime.

What makes “Trevor” a strong episode is its willingness to embrace a dark and serious tone. Like classic episodes of The X-Files, it successfully mixes lighter, more unusual storylines – similar to the “Arcadia” episode – with genuinely moving and suspenseful narratives. “Trevor” particularly excels by blending a heartfelt story about Pinker’s former partner, June (played by Catherine Dent), with the quick pace of a thriller.

“Fire”

Season 1, Episode 12

Fox

Let’s talk about fire on screen – it can be genuinely chilling, or a total disaster, like comparing Stephen King’s Firestarter book to that recent movie. This X-Files episode isn’t always mentioned as a fan favorite, but I think it’s seriously underrated. The biggest reason to tune in? It’s hilarious – and surprisingly poignant – to see Mulder genuinely afraid of fire. It’s a moment played for laughs, but it feels real. And you can’t help but grin when the villain, Cecil L’Ively (played brilliantly by Mark Sheppard), says…

“You can’t fight fire with fire!”

This episode was really something! There was this frightening villain who could control fire, but honestly, what stuck with me most was learning more about Mulder’s past. I’ll never forget Phoebe Green telling Mulder about their connection while standing at Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s grave! Looking back, the case itself, ‘Fire,’ feels important because it really showed the early spark between Scully and Mulder – you could tell they had great chemistry even as they were still figuring out how to work together.

Quiz

5 Questions

Underrated X-Files Gems: Test Your Hidden Favorites Knowledge

Report Error

Found an error? Send it info@movieweb.com so it can be corrected.

2026-01-20 01:20