Movie News: Ryan Coogler is developing a new ‘X-FILES’ series with a diverse cast
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White person: hey did you see that strange light and hear that strange noise let’s investigate
Black person: wtf was that shit, nig I’m outta here
Latin person: oh my god chupacabra
Asian person: if it bleeds than we can cook it
Black person: wtf was that shit, nig I’m outta here
Latin person: oh my god chupacabra
Asian person: if it bleeds than we can cook it
A diverse cast. I’m out.
Black people don’t want to see black people doing white shit. Ain’t nobody checking for Ryan except banks in Atlanta. Black stories by black people. Tyler Perry makes shows just to fill time before the main event: commercials.
Black people don’t want to see black people doing white shit. Ain’t nobody checking for Ryan except banks in Atlanta. Black stories by black people. Tyler Perry makes shows just to fill time before the main event: commercials.
Unless its a continuation/passing the torch-type deal(which Gillian said would be the only reason she were to come back) then..
Ok OK....
Shheeeiiiitttt... I'm here for it.
I have a gut feeling that Ryan Coogler is gonna CRUSH THIS!
He should make the new X-Files kinda like: "The Wire"... meets "Stranger Things"... meets "CSI".
- Keep the classic X-Files "monster of the week" format...
- plus have all kinds of unexpected plot twists & turns...
- combined with crazy cliffhangers.
Or non-binary trans for Scully
‘The X-Files’ Creator Says Ryan Coogler Is Developing Diverse Reboot
'The X-Files' Creator Says Ryan Coogler Is Developing Diverse Reboot
deadline.com
The X-Files: Black Actors We Can See As Mulder, Scully in Ryan Coogler’s Reboot
Here’s our suggestions for who could revive Mulder and Scully in a new X-Files.
By Stephanie Holland
April 1, 2023
www.theroot.com
The X-Files remains one of TV’s most popular shows of all-time. While the mysterious mythology and spooky storylines certainly kept us interested, it was the undeniable chemistry between David Duchovny’s Fox Mulder and Gillian Anderson’s Dana Scully that had us coming back every week. With Ryan Coogler possibly working on a more “diverse” reboot, we have some cool casting ideas for this new Black X-Files.
Dominique Fishback
From her work in The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey, to Swarm, to the upcoming Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, it’s clear Dominique Fishback can handle anything. She’d be a very cool Scully, but I also want to see her take on Mulder.
Nathan Stewart-Jarrett
Nathan Stewart-Jarrett has a fascinating presence that makes you want to know more about all his characters.
Nicole Beharie
Her time on Sleepy Hollow showed us she can fit in perfectly in a weird, sometimes nonsensical, sci-fi/fantasy world. In that series, she was definitely the Scully in the partnership. This time around, I’d like to see her walk on the other side as the Mulder.
Lakeith Stanfield
Lakeith Stanfield has the right X-Files mix of nerdy energy and idealistic truth seeker.
Kirby Howell-Baptiste
She has an amazing ability to perfectly blend drama, comedy and fantasy, all the most crucial elements to The X-Files enduring popularity.
John Boyega
Action, comedy, drama, John Boyega does it all. It feels like he’s tailor made to be the new Mulder.
Jodie Turner-Smith
Scully is the grounded non-believer. Jodie Turner-Smith can embody her mix of intelligence and pragmatism.
Jesse Williams
So, about that sexy, undeniable, explosive chemistry between Mulder and Scully, may I suggest Jesse Williams?
Nathalie Emmanuel
Her work with Kevin Hart in Die Hart lends itself to the absurdity some of the cases offer.
Edi Gathegi
He could add a fascinating hint of danger to either Mulder or Scully.
Cynthia Addai-Robinson
Her history of playing strong, no nonsense women in Spartacus, Arrow and The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power translates brilliantly to portraying Scully.
Jay Ellis
Let’s not forget how charming Mulder could be when he needed to be.
KiKi Layne
Don’t forget that Mulder and Scully were exceptional agents, who excelled at their jobs despite the craziness they were involved in. We definitely need a verified action star.
William Jackson Harper
What made David Duchovny so fascinating was his draw as a quirky sex symbol. William Jackson Harper definitely falls in that category.
Jurnee Smollett
While all these actresses would be great in a new X-Files, it feels like Jurnee Smollett should absolutely be the top choice. Throughout her long career, we’ve seen her do every genre necessary to make this project perfect.
John David Washington
If we’re looking for someone who can make the show’s wild conspiracies and mythology seem completely reasonable, John David Washington fits the bill.
Gugu Mbatha-Raw
It’s hard to match the captivating presence of Gillian Anderson, but Gugu Mbatha-Raw might be the one of the few actresses who can come close.
Chukwudi Iwuji
His hilariously over-the-top performance in the upcoming Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 will help him embody the series’ dry wit.
Candice Patton
Candice Patton is brilliant at keeping her head as sci-fi shenanigans are going crazy around her.
Donald Glover
Donald Glover always delivers unique, fresh projects. Collaborating with Ryan Coogler could lead to something really special.
Here’s our suggestions for who could revive Mulder and Scully in a new X-Files.
By Stephanie Holland
April 1, 2023
The X-Files: More Black Actors We Want to See Join Ryan Coogler’s Reboot
You loved it! So, here’s more of our unique lineup of Black stars who can remake the sci-fi classic.
www.theroot.com
The X-Files remains one of TV’s most popular shows of all-time. While the mysterious mythology and spooky storylines certainly kept us interested, it was the undeniable chemistry between David Duchovny’s Fox Mulder and Gillian Anderson’s Dana Scully that had us coming back every week. With Ryan Coogler possibly working on a more “diverse” reboot, we have some cool casting ideas for this new Black X-Files.
Dominique Fishback
From her work in The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey, to Swarm, to the upcoming Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, it’s clear Dominique Fishback can handle anything. She’d be a very cool Scully, but I also want to see her take on Mulder.
Nathan Stewart-Jarrett
Nathan Stewart-Jarrett has a fascinating presence that makes you want to know more about all his characters.
Nicole Beharie
Her time on Sleepy Hollow showed us she can fit in perfectly in a weird, sometimes nonsensical, sci-fi/fantasy world. In that series, she was definitely the Scully in the partnership. This time around, I’d like to see her walk on the other side as the Mulder.
Lakeith Stanfield
Lakeith Stanfield has the right X-Files mix of nerdy energy and idealistic truth seeker.
Kirby Howell-Baptiste
She has an amazing ability to perfectly blend drama, comedy and fantasy, all the most crucial elements to The X-Files enduring popularity.
John Boyega
Action, comedy, drama, John Boyega does it all. It feels like he’s tailor made to be the new Mulder.
Jodie Turner-Smith
Scully is the grounded non-believer. Jodie Turner-Smith can embody her mix of intelligence and pragmatism.
Jesse Williams
So, about that sexy, undeniable, explosive chemistry between Mulder and Scully, may I suggest Jesse Williams?
Nathalie Emmanuel
Her work with Kevin Hart in Die Hart lends itself to the absurdity some of the cases offer.
Edi Gathegi
He could add a fascinating hint of danger to either Mulder or Scully.
Cynthia Addai-Robinson
Her history of playing strong, no nonsense women in Spartacus, Arrow and The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power translates brilliantly to portraying Scully.
Jay Ellis
Let’s not forget how charming Mulder could be when he needed to be.
KiKi Layne
Don’t forget that Mulder and Scully were exceptional agents, who excelled at their jobs despite the craziness they were involved in. We definitely need a verified action star.
William Jackson Harper
What made David Duchovny so fascinating was his draw as a quirky sex symbol. William Jackson Harper definitely falls in that category.
Jurnee Smollett
While all these actresses would be great in a new X-Files, it feels like Jurnee Smollett should absolutely be the top choice. Throughout her long career, we’ve seen her do every genre necessary to make this project perfect.
John David Washington
If we’re looking for someone who can make the show’s wild conspiracies and mythology seem completely reasonable, John David Washington fits the bill.
Gugu Mbatha-Raw
It’s hard to match the captivating presence of Gillian Anderson, but Gugu Mbatha-Raw might be the one of the few actresses who can come close.
Chukwudi Iwuji
His hilariously over-the-top performance in the upcoming Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 will help him embody the series’ dry wit.
Candice Patton
Candice Patton is brilliant at keeping her head as sci-fi shenanigans are going crazy around her.
Donald Glover
Donald Glover always delivers unique, fresh projects. Collaborating with Ryan Coogler could lead to something really special.
The X-Files went belly-up after the movie IMO. I'll give this a chance hoping it gets back to the basics that made it so good in the first place.
Producers/directors have to remember not to get too far over their skies and then resort to stupid deus ex machinas to resolve shit.
Producers/directors have to remember not to get too far over their skies and then resort to stupid deus ex machinas to resolve shit.
The X-Files: Black Actors We Can See As Mulder, Scully in Ryan Coogler’s Reboot
Here’s our suggestions for who could revive Mulder and Scully in a new X-Files.
By Stephanie Holland
April 1, 2023
The X-Files: More Black Actors We Want to See Join Ryan Coogler’s Reboot
You loved it! So, here’s more of our unique lineup of Black stars who can remake the sci-fi classic.
The X-Files remains one of TV’s most popular shows of all-time. While the mysterious mythology and spooky storylines certainly kept us interested, it was the undeniable chemistry between David Duchovny’s Fox Mulder and Gillian Anderson’s Dana Scully that had us coming back every week. With Ryan Coogler possibly working on a more “diverse” reboot, we have some cool casting ideas for this new Black X-Files.
Dominique Fishback
From her work in The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey, to Swarm, to the upcoming Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, it’s clear Dominique Fishback can handle anything. She’d be a very cool Scully, but I also want to see her take on Mulder.
Nathan Stewart-Jarrett
Nathan Stewart-Jarrett has a fascinating presence that makes you want to know more about all his characters.
Nicole Beharie
Her time on Sleepy Hollow showed us she can fit in perfectly in a weird, sometimes nonsensical, sci-fi/fantasy world. In that series, she was definitely the Scully in the partnership. This time around, I’d like to see her walk on the other side as the Mulder.
Lakeith Stanfield
Lakeith Stanfield has the right X-Files mix of nerdy energy and idealistic truth seeker.
Kirby Howell-Baptiste
She has an amazing ability to perfectly blend drama, comedy and fantasy, all the most crucial elements to The X-Files enduring popularity.
John Boyega
Action, comedy, drama, John Boyega does it all. It feels like he’s tailor made to be the new Mulder.
Jodie Turner-Smith
Scully is the grounded non-believer. Jodie Turner-Smith can embody her mix of intelligence and pragmatism.
Jesse Williams
So, about that sexy, undeniable, explosive chemistry between Mulder and Scully, may I suggest Jesse Williams?
Nathalie Emmanuel
Her work with Kevin Hart in Die Hart lends itself to the absurdity some of the cases offer.
Edi Gathegi
He could add a fascinating hint of danger to either Mulder or Scully.
Cynthia Addai-Robinson
Her history of playing strong, no nonsense women in Spartacus, Arrow and The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power translates brilliantly to portraying Scully.
Jay Ellis
Let’s not forget how charming Mulder could be when he needed to be.
KiKi Layne
Don’t forget that Mulder and Scully were exceptional agents, who excelled at their jobs despite the craziness they were involved in. We definitely need a verified action star.
William Jackson Harper
What made David Duchovny so fascinating was his draw as a quirky sex symbol. William Jackson Harper definitely falls in that category.
Jurnee Smollett
While all these actresses would be great in a new X-Files, it feels like Jurnee Smollett should absolutely be the top choice. Throughout her long career, we’ve seen her do every genre necessary to make this project perfect.
John David Washington
If we’re looking for someone who can make the show’s wild conspiracies and mythology seem completely reasonable, John David Washington fits the bill.
Gugu Mbatha-Raw
It’s hard to match the captivating presence of Gillian Anderson, but Gugu Mbatha-Raw might be the one of the few actresses who can come close.
Chukwudi Iwuji
His hilariously over-the-top performance in the upcoming Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 will help him embody the series’ dry wit.
Candice Patton
Candice Patton is brilliant at keeping her head as sci-fi shenanigans are going crazy around her.
Donald Glover
Donald Glover always delivers unique, fresh projects. Collaborating with Ryan Coogler could lead to something really special.
Hmmmm....
Joshua Jackson and Jodie Turner Smith SPLIT: Actress files for divorce
Joshua Jackson and Jodie Turner-Smith have split after nearly four years of marriage.
Jodie Turner-Smith Files for Divorce from Joshua Jackson
Jodie Turner-Smith is pulling the plug on her marriage to Joshua Jackson ... TMZ has learned she just filed for divorce.
www.tmz.com
Jodie Turner-Smith Files for Divorce from Joshua Jackson After 4 Years of Marriage
Jodie Turner-Smith and Joshua Jackson married in August 2019 and share a 3-year-old daughter
Joshua Jackson and Jodie Turner Smith SPLIT: Actress files for divorce
Joshua Jackson and Jodie Turner-Smith have split after nearly four years of marriage.www.dailymail.co.uk
Jodie Turner-Smith Files for Divorce from Joshua Jackson
Jodie Turner-Smith is pulling the plug on her marriage to Joshua Jackson ... TMZ has learned she just filed for divorce.
Jodie Turner-Smith Files for Divorce from Joshua Jackson After 4 Years of Marriage
Jodie Turner-Smith and Joshua Jackson married in August 2019 and share a 3-year-old daughterpeople.com
Holy sh*t
I tried to tell him to stop playing cheating husband in EVERY SINGLE ROLE.
I DID!!!
Joshua Jackson on Why He Needs a “Love Story” After Multiple Intense Roles
The actor, who has had his fair share of drama with everything from 'Dr. Death' to 'Fatal Attraction,' shares why he wanted to "hold hands and make goo-goo eyes" for his next role.
www.hollywoodreporter.com
U know it’s going to have a smattering of LGBTQ and social Justice/social trends stuff in there. Which is fine. Just don’t deviate from the sci fi premise from whence it came. Tell the stories of the strange and unexplained and the absolute possibility that there are unexplained things that occur from extra terrestrial activity. I think most people actually don’t mind the “woke” stuff. It’s the over reliance of it throughout a product and especially an established series or film that has already taken root in people’s minds and lives. You can continue greatness so long as u don’t saturate it with too much excess bs
The reboot could work if they focus majority the stories around non-white communities.
The original series mainly had all the stories take place in rural white America and in predominantly white areas of American metropolitan cities.
Having good stories with aliens, monsters and supernatural beings in the hood and other non-white communities would definitely make it interesting.
The original series mainly had all the stories take place in rural white America and in predominantly white areas of American metropolitan cities.
Having good stories with aliens, monsters and supernatural beings in the hood and other non-white communities would definitely make it interesting.
Bed wenches are committing that.....
Definitely need to incorporate some elements from American Gods
Using og name to bring in built in fanbase and hope either they like it and hopefully get a new fanbase along the way
Just look at cobra Kai.. already had a built in fanbase of old school karate kid fans they got them to like the new series and eventually got a new fanbase also
No tethers. Beharie fine ass does need to be back on TV thoughThe X-Files: Black Actors We Can See As Mulder, Scully in Ryan Coogler’s Reboot
Here’s our suggestions for who could revive Mulder and Scully in a new X-Files.
By Stephanie Holland
April 1, 2023
The X-Files: More Black Actors We Want to See Join Ryan Coogler’s Reboot
You loved it! So, here’s more of our unique lineup of Black stars who can remake the sci-fi classic.
The X-Files remains one of TV’s most popular shows of all-time. While the mysterious mythology and spooky storylines certainly kept us interested, it was the undeniable chemistry between David Duchovny’s Fox Mulder and Gillian Anderson’s Dana Scully that had us coming back every week. With Ryan Coogler possibly working on a more “diverse” reboot, we have some cool casting ideas for this new Black X-Files.
Dominique Fishback
From her work in The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey, to Swarm, to the upcoming Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, it’s clear Dominique Fishback can handle anything. She’d be a very cool Scully, but I also want to see her take on Mulder.
Nathan Stewart-Jarrett
Nathan Stewart-Jarrett has a fascinating presence that makes you want to know more about all his characters.
Nicole Beharie
Her time on Sleepy Hollow showed us she can fit in perfectly in a weird, sometimes nonsensical, sci-fi/fantasy world. In that series, she was definitely the Scully in the partnership. This time around, I’d like to see her walk on the other side as the Mulder.
Lakeith Stanfield
Lakeith Stanfield has the right X-Files mix of nerdy energy and idealistic truth seeker.
Kirby Howell-Baptiste
She has an amazing ability to perfectly blend drama, comedy and fantasy, all the most crucial elements to The X-Files enduring popularity.
John Boyega
Action, comedy, drama, John Boyega does it all. It feels like he’s tailor made to be the new Mulder.
Jodie Turner-Smith
Scully is the grounded non-believer. Jodie Turner-Smith can embody her mix of intelligence and pragmatism.
Jesse Williams
So, about that sexy, undeniable, explosive chemistry between Mulder and Scully, may I suggest Jesse Williams?
Nathalie Emmanuel
Her work with Kevin Hart in Die Hart lends itself to the absurdity some of the cases offer.
Edi Gathegi
He could add a fascinating hint of danger to either Mulder or Scully.
Cynthia Addai-Robinson
Her history of playing strong, no nonsense women in Spartacus, Arrow and The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power translates brilliantly to portraying Scully.
Jay Ellis
Let’s not forget how charming Mulder could be when he needed to be.
KiKi Layne
Don’t forget that Mulder and Scully were exceptional agents, who excelled at their jobs despite the craziness they were involved in. We definitely need a verified action star.
William Jackson Harper
What made David Duchovny so fascinating was his draw as a quirky sex symbol. William Jackson Harper definitely falls in that category.
Jurnee Smollett
While all these actresses would be great in a new X-Files, it feels like Jurnee Smollett should absolutely be the top choice. Throughout her long career, we’ve seen her do every genre necessary to make this project perfect.
John David Washington
If we’re looking for someone who can make the show’s wild conspiracies and mythology seem completely reasonable, John David Washington fits the bill.
Gugu Mbatha-Raw
It’s hard to match the captivating presence of Gillian Anderson, but Gugu Mbatha-Raw might be the one of the few actresses who can come close.
Chukwudi Iwuji
His hilariously over-the-top performance in the upcoming Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 will help him embody the series’ dry wit.
Candice Patton
Candice Patton is brilliant at keeping her head as sci-fi shenanigans are going crazy around her.
Donald Glover
Donald Glover always delivers unique, fresh projects. Collaborating with Ryan Coogler could lead to something really special.
Yeah but cobra kai was a continuation.
It wasnt a remake. And it was actually one of the better shows that blend the old and new.
But these remakes specially old cac shows will be received with critism before its even made. I rather he create a new black show that we know isnt going to get canceled cause of bs.
8 Things That Need To Happen To Make Disney's The X-Files Reboot Work
From Mulder and Scully's return to monster of the week episodes, Disney's more diverse X-Files reboot needs to get a lot of elements right to succeed.
BY CATHAL GUNNING
December 22, 2023
screenrant.com
The news that Disney has a new X-Files reboot in the works could be promising, but this new project would need to change a lot to make the franchise feel exciting again. The X-Files was a huge hit in the ‘90s, but the show’s 2016 revival proved that its popularity was not perennial. Although David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson both reprised their roles as FBI agents Mulder and Scully, The X-Files seasons 10 and 11 couldn’t recapture the magic of the show’s original run. Like the original series, this revival focused on the zealous Mulder and skeptical Scully’s attempts to investigate the existence of paranormal phenomena.
While The X-Files revival had its defenders, critics broadly dismissed the final two seasons as a failure. Despite this, Disney is reportedly attempting to reboot The X-Files with a more diverse lineup and Black Panther director Ryan Coogler at the helm. Original series creator Chris Carter told CBC’s On The Coast podcast that Coogler was “going to remount The X-Files with a diverse cast,” a promise that didn’t give away much about the show’s tone, story, or returning characters. While Coogler could take the franchise in various different directions, a good reboot of The X-Files would need to make many changes to succeed.
• 8 - The New X-Files Reboot Can’t Star Mulder And Scully Again
Duchovny and Anderson’s original heroes have run their course
The fact that the second season of The X-Files revival performed so poorly with critics and viewers makes it unlikely that the show’s original stars Duchovny and Anderson would return for another reboot so soon. However, Disney’s X-Files reboot shouldn’t star Mulder and Scully even if their actors could be convinced to come back again. Mulder and Scully’s story ended with a cliffhanger, but it wasn’t one that viewers were eager to see resolved, since the unpopular story of Scully’s son William dragged down seasons 10 and 11. This pointless plot shouldn’t be revisited, but it couldn’t be ignored if the duo were to return as main characters.
• 7 - David Duchovny & Gillian Anderson Must Still Appear In The Reboot
The X-Files with no Mulder and Scully would feel like a knock-off
A lot of TV shows have reworked the formula of The X-Files in the years since the series ended, with everything from Fringe to Supernatural to Gravity Falls owing at least some of their inspiration to the ‘90s hit. As such, it would be easy for an X-Files reboot without Mulder and Scully to feel like nothing more than a knock-off. Duchovny and Anderson must at least appear in the spinoff so Mulder and Scully can give the new series their blessing, since anything short of this would mean Disney’s reboot didn’t feel like a legitimate addition to the franchise. Even a brief cameo would be sufficient to end their story and set up the reboot's new heroes.
• 6 - Disney’s Reboot Can’t Soften The X-Files
The show’s dark, eerie edge must remain
The fact that The X-Files had a Simpsons crossover and was endlessly parodied at the height of its popularity led some viewers to nostalgically remember the series as a relatively light watch. However, the nastiest episodes of The X-Files were seriously scary and bleak, as evidenced by season 4, episode 2, “Home,” and season 1, episode 3, “Squeeze.” The reboot needs to remember this, particularly when Disney has a reputation for family-friendly content. Coogler has worked on plenty of mature projects over the years, but little of his recent work has the outright disturbing atmosphere of classic X-Files outings.
• 5 - The X-Files Needs More Monster Of The Week Stories
The series should prioritize fun standalone mysteries
While the series did have a complex conspiracy at the core of the show’s overarching story, The X-Files still excelled at pulling off standalone episodes. Some of these were terrifying while others were pure silly fun, but all of them functioned as mini-movies starring Mulder, Scully, and a unique weekly villain. Disney’s reboot must take inspiration from some of the original X-Files' best monster-of-the-week episodes, as it was in these unassuming outings that Mulder and Scully fine-tuned the chemistry that drove the series. This interplay elevated the show, and the formula allows the duo to develop this dynamic via comparatively low-stakes stories.
• 4 - The X-Files Needs More Diversity
The original show was lacking in varied representation
Gillian Anderson told Variety in 2022 that, if the series were to be rebooted, Mulder and Scully would need to step down for the show "to feel like it was new and progressive.” This is an apt point, and one that Coogler’s reboot will seemingly take to heart. The X-Files was a predominantly white series, but the show's issues with representation went deeper than that. The 2016 revival featured tasteless transphobic jokes, while the original series rarely addressed the FBI’s history of racism. Luckily, Disney’s reboot could delve into the problematic real-life history of the institution and offer more substantial roles for people of color.
• 3 - 2016’s X-Files Reboot Should Be Ignored
The misguided reboot can be retconned by this new franchise outing
Mulder/Scully’s son William
The 2016 revival is a rare TV reboot that could reasonably be retconned without explanation, since the final two seasons added little value to the show’s mythos. The reintroduction of Scully’s son William was a major misfire, while the attempts to reintegrate the Cigarette Smoking Man came across as unnecessarily convoluted. The revival’s mysteries were never resolved, which means undoing this plot wouldn’t involve ruining the show’s main conspiracy. Retconning the final seasons would arguably even improve the series as a whole, as Coogler’s reboot could pick up from the superior ending of 2008’s movie spinoff, The X-Files: I Want To Believe.
• 2 - Mulder & Scully’s Relationship Status Needs To Be Explained
The "will they, won’t they" pairing should finally be settled for good
If the reboot does retcon seasons 10 and 11, The X-Files could finally explain the mysterious relationship status of Mulder and Scully. The duo’s famously unresolved romantic chemistry eventually paid off when the ending of the second movie saw them together in an idyllic paradise, but the revival revealed that they fell out of touch in the years that followed. While Duchovny and Anderson’s characters don’t necessarily need a happy ending, their story does require a definitive conclusion after season 11’s cliffhanger left a lot unresolved. This could be easier to achieve if the pair were only occasional supporting stars rather than the show’s leads.
• 1 - The Reboot Can’t Ignore X-Files Lore
Even undoing 2016’s reboot doesn’t solve the conspiracy
Just because Disney’s X-Files reboot should recon seasons 10 and 11 doesn’t mean that the series can simply ignore its overarching mystery. The monster-of-the-week episodes were always fun, but The X-Files did promise that the main characters would someday get an answer to the show’s central conspiracy. David Lynch's Twin Peaks: The Return proved that even a surreal, ambiguous series with an infamously disappointing middle installment could come back and offer a meaningful resolution to its story, so there’s no reason that Coogler’s reboot can’t do the same for The X-Files. Disney’s reboot doesn’t need to explain everything, but it must make the world of The X-Files feel like it has answers.
From Mulder and Scully's return to monster of the week episodes, Disney's more diverse X-Files reboot needs to get a lot of elements right to succeed.
BY CATHAL GUNNING
December 22, 2023
8 Things That Need To Happen To Make Disney's The X-Files Reboot Work
Everything Disney's X-Files reboot must get right.
screenrant.com
The news that Disney has a new X-Files reboot in the works could be promising, but this new project would need to change a lot to make the franchise feel exciting again. The X-Files was a huge hit in the ‘90s, but the show’s 2016 revival proved that its popularity was not perennial. Although David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson both reprised their roles as FBI agents Mulder and Scully, The X-Files seasons 10 and 11 couldn’t recapture the magic of the show’s original run. Like the original series, this revival focused on the zealous Mulder and skeptical Scully’s attempts to investigate the existence of paranormal phenomena.
While The X-Files revival had its defenders, critics broadly dismissed the final two seasons as a failure. Despite this, Disney is reportedly attempting to reboot The X-Files with a more diverse lineup and Black Panther director Ryan Coogler at the helm. Original series creator Chris Carter told CBC’s On The Coast podcast that Coogler was “going to remount The X-Files with a diverse cast,” a promise that didn’t give away much about the show’s tone, story, or returning characters. While Coogler could take the franchise in various different directions, a good reboot of The X-Files would need to make many changes to succeed.
• 8 - The New X-Files Reboot Can’t Star Mulder And Scully Again
Duchovny and Anderson’s original heroes have run their course
The fact that the second season of The X-Files revival performed so poorly with critics and viewers makes it unlikely that the show’s original stars Duchovny and Anderson would return for another reboot so soon. However, Disney’s X-Files reboot shouldn’t star Mulder and Scully even if their actors could be convinced to come back again. Mulder and Scully’s story ended with a cliffhanger, but it wasn’t one that viewers were eager to see resolved, since the unpopular story of Scully’s son William dragged down seasons 10 and 11. This pointless plot shouldn’t be revisited, but it couldn’t be ignored if the duo were to return as main characters.
• 7 - David Duchovny & Gillian Anderson Must Still Appear In The Reboot
The X-Files with no Mulder and Scully would feel like a knock-off
A lot of TV shows have reworked the formula of The X-Files in the years since the series ended, with everything from Fringe to Supernatural to Gravity Falls owing at least some of their inspiration to the ‘90s hit. As such, it would be easy for an X-Files reboot without Mulder and Scully to feel like nothing more than a knock-off. Duchovny and Anderson must at least appear in the spinoff so Mulder and Scully can give the new series their blessing, since anything short of this would mean Disney’s reboot didn’t feel like a legitimate addition to the franchise. Even a brief cameo would be sufficient to end their story and set up the reboot's new heroes.
• 6 - Disney’s Reboot Can’t Soften The X-Files
The show’s dark, eerie edge must remain
The fact that The X-Files had a Simpsons crossover and was endlessly parodied at the height of its popularity led some viewers to nostalgically remember the series as a relatively light watch. However, the nastiest episodes of The X-Files were seriously scary and bleak, as evidenced by season 4, episode 2, “Home,” and season 1, episode 3, “Squeeze.” The reboot needs to remember this, particularly when Disney has a reputation for family-friendly content. Coogler has worked on plenty of mature projects over the years, but little of his recent work has the outright disturbing atmosphere of classic X-Files outings.
• 5 - The X-Files Needs More Monster Of The Week Stories
The series should prioritize fun standalone mysteries
While the series did have a complex conspiracy at the core of the show’s overarching story, The X-Files still excelled at pulling off standalone episodes. Some of these were terrifying while others were pure silly fun, but all of them functioned as mini-movies starring Mulder, Scully, and a unique weekly villain. Disney’s reboot must take inspiration from some of the original X-Files' best monster-of-the-week episodes, as it was in these unassuming outings that Mulder and Scully fine-tuned the chemistry that drove the series. This interplay elevated the show, and the formula allows the duo to develop this dynamic via comparatively low-stakes stories.
• 4 - The X-Files Needs More Diversity
The original show was lacking in varied representation
Gillian Anderson told Variety in 2022 that, if the series were to be rebooted, Mulder and Scully would need to step down for the show "to feel like it was new and progressive.” This is an apt point, and one that Coogler’s reboot will seemingly take to heart. The X-Files was a predominantly white series, but the show's issues with representation went deeper than that. The 2016 revival featured tasteless transphobic jokes, while the original series rarely addressed the FBI’s history of racism. Luckily, Disney’s reboot could delve into the problematic real-life history of the institution and offer more substantial roles for people of color.
• 3 - 2016’s X-Files Reboot Should Be Ignored
The misguided reboot can be retconned by this new franchise outing
Mulder/Scully’s son William
The 2016 revival is a rare TV reboot that could reasonably be retconned without explanation, since the final two seasons added little value to the show’s mythos. The reintroduction of Scully’s son William was a major misfire, while the attempts to reintegrate the Cigarette Smoking Man came across as unnecessarily convoluted. The revival’s mysteries were never resolved, which means undoing this plot wouldn’t involve ruining the show’s main conspiracy. Retconning the final seasons would arguably even improve the series as a whole, as Coogler’s reboot could pick up from the superior ending of 2008’s movie spinoff, The X-Files: I Want To Believe.
• 2 - Mulder & Scully’s Relationship Status Needs To Be Explained
The "will they, won’t they" pairing should finally be settled for good
If the reboot does retcon seasons 10 and 11, The X-Files could finally explain the mysterious relationship status of Mulder and Scully. The duo’s famously unresolved romantic chemistry eventually paid off when the ending of the second movie saw them together in an idyllic paradise, but the revival revealed that they fell out of touch in the years that followed. While Duchovny and Anderson’s characters don’t necessarily need a happy ending, their story does require a definitive conclusion after season 11’s cliffhanger left a lot unresolved. This could be easier to achieve if the pair were only occasional supporting stars rather than the show’s leads.
• 1 - The Reboot Can’t Ignore X-Files Lore
Even undoing 2016’s reboot doesn’t solve the conspiracy
Just because Disney’s X-Files reboot should recon seasons 10 and 11 doesn’t mean that the series can simply ignore its overarching mystery. The monster-of-the-week episodes were always fun, but The X-Files did promise that the main characters would someday get an answer to the show’s central conspiracy. David Lynch's Twin Peaks: The Return proved that even a surreal, ambiguous series with an infamously disappointing middle installment could come back and offer a meaningful resolution to its story, so there’s no reason that Coogler’s reboot can’t do the same for The X-Files. Disney’s reboot doesn’t need to explain everything, but it must make the world of The X-Files feel like it has answers.
Ryan Coogler & Michael B. Jordan Warner Bros Event Movie Sets Spring 2025 Release
The untitled reteam of filmmaker Ryan Coogler and actor Michael B. Jordan is hitting theaters on March 7, 2025.
deadline.com
‘X Files’ Creator Says Studio Execs Asked ‘Where’s the Sex Appeal?’ About Gillian Anderson, Calls New Reboot a ‘Hard Job’ Since ‘Everything’s a Conspiracy’ Now
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variety.com
30 Years Later, the Writer Behind TV's Most Mind-Bending Sci-Fi Show Is Ready to Move On
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Gillian Anderson explains why she kissed 'The X-FIles' costar David Duchovny first, rather than her then-boyfriend, at the 1997 Emmy Awards