The best X-Files 'Monster of the Week' episodes

As a fan of The X-Files, I can't help but wax lyrical about the show's iconic "monster of the week" episodes. These standalone episodes were a staple of the series, showcasing the show's incredible range and ability to blend genres and tell unique stories.

From the creepy and unsettling to the darkly comedic and absurd, these episodes offered a glimpse into the strange and unknown. They allowed the show to explore a wide range of supernatural phenomena and creatures, from ghosts and aliens to mutants and mythical beasts. And even though these episodes often lacked the overarching conspiracy plot that drove the show forward, they were still able to captivate audiences with their engaging characters, eerie settings, and masterful storytelling.

Each episode was a mini-movie in its own right, with its own distinct style, tone, and atmosphere. Some were downright terrifying, while others were more whimsical or tongue-in-cheek. But regardless of the episode's tone, what always shone through was the show's commitment to telling compelling stories and creating unforgettable moments. For fans of science fiction, horror, or just good storytelling, The X-Files' monster of the week episodes remain some of the most memorable and beloved in television history.

Here's the best 'Monster of the Week' episodes from The X-Files

"Squeeze" – Season 1, episode 3, written by Glen Morgan and James Wong, directed by Harry Longstreet 

In this episode, Mulder and Scully investigate a series of murders committed by Eugene Victor Tooms, a mutant who can elongate his limbs and squeeze into small spaces. As they investigate, they discover that Tooms has been committing similar murders for over a century. The main characters are featured heavily, as they work to catch the elusive Tooms before he strikes again.

Trivia:

• The character of Tooms was inspired by the real-life serial killer, Albert Fish.
• This was the first episode to feature the recurring character of Walter Skinner.
• The episode was originally intended to be the second episode of the series, but was pushed back in the airing order.

"The Host" – Season 2, episode 2, written by Chris Carter, directed by Daniel Sackheim

 In this episode, Mulder and Scully investigate a series of murders that appear to be connected to a sewer monster. As they investigate, they discover that the monster is actually a mutated fluke worm that has grown to enormous size. The main characters are featured heavily, as they try to track down the creature and prevent it from causing any more harm.

Trivia:

• The episode was originally intended to be the season premiere, but was pushed back due to production delays.
• The episode's title is a play on words, as the word "host" can refer both to the creature and to the humans it uses as hosts for its eggs.
• The episode features a brief cameo by Charles Nelson Reilly, who plays a guest on a talk show that Mulder and Scully are watching.

"Humbug" – Season 2, episode 20, written by Darin Morgan, directed by Kim Manners 

In this episode, Mulder and Scully investigate a series of murders that have taken place in a community of circus freaks. As they investigate, they encounter a variety of strange and unusual characters, including a conjoined twin and a man who can twist his body into impossible positions. The main characters are featured heavily, as they try to uncover the truth behind the murders and navigate the strange world of the circus.

Trivia:

• This episode was written by Darin Morgan, who also wrote several other acclaimed "Monster of the Week" episodes.
• The episode features a guest appearance by Jim Rose, the leader of the Jim Rose Circus.
• The episode's title refers to the term "humbug," which is often used to describe something that is fraudulent or deceptive.

"Die Hand Die Verletzt" – Season 2, episode 14, written by Glen Morgan and James Wong, directed by Kim Manners

In this episode, Mulder and Scully investigate a series of strange occurrences that have taken place at a high school in New Hampshire. As they investigate, they uncover a group of parents who are involved in a Satanic cult and are using their children as sacrifices. The main characters are featured heavily, as they try to uncover the truth behind the cult and put a stop to their plans.

Trivia:

• The title of the episode is German for "The Hand That Wounds."
• The episode was inspired by the Satanic Panic of the 1980s and 1990s, during which many people believed that there was a widespread conspiracy of Satanists who were secretly controlling society.
• The episode features a guest appearance by Susan Blommaert, who would later appear as the recurring character of Mrs. Peacock.

"War of the Coprophages" – Season 3, episode 12, written by Darin Morgan, directed by Kim Manners

In this episode, Mulder investigates a series of bizarre deaths in a small town that seem to be related to cockroaches. As he investigates, he begins to suspect that the town is being invaded by extraterrestrial insects. Scully is not heavily featured in this episode, but she provides occasional commentary on Mulder's investigation.

Trivia:

• The episode's title is a play on the H.G. Wells novel, "The War of the Worlds."
• The episode features several references to classic horror films, including "The Birds" and "Invasion of the Body Snatchers."
• The episode's tone is more comedic than many other X-Files episodes, and it has been praised for its satirical take on the series' themes.

"Chinga" – Season 5, episode 10, written by Stephen King and Chris Carter, directed by Kim Manners 

In this episode, Scully takes a vacation in a small town in Maine, but her plans for relaxation are interrupted when she becomes involved in a series of strange and gruesome murders. As she investigates, she discovers that a cursed doll may be responsible for the deaths. Mulder makes a brief appearance via phone call to offer his help.

Trivia:

• This episode was written by Stephen King, who was a fan of The X-Files and had previously referenced the series in his own work.
• The episode's title comes from the Spanish word "chingada," which is a vulgar insult.
• The episode was originally intended to be a "Stephen King episode," with King writing and directing the episode, but he ultimately decided to only write the script.

"Sanguinarium" – Season 4, episode 6, written by Valerie Mayhew and Vivian Mayhew, directed by Kim Manners

In this episode, Mulder and Scully investigate a series of strange deaths that seem to be related to a plastic surgeon. As they investigate, they discover that the surgeon is using black magic to perform his procedures and is sacrificing his patients in the process. The main characters are both heavily featured in this episode, as they work together to uncover the truth.

Trivia:

• The episode's title is a reference to the Latin word "sanguinarius," which means "bloodthirsty."
• The episode features a guest appearance by Michael Harris, who had previously played a different character in the season 1 episode "E.B.E."
• The episode was inspired by the real-life case of Linda Hazzard, a quack doctor who claimed to be able to cure her patients through fasting and ultimately caused several deaths.

"Quagmire" – Season 3, episode 22, written by Kim Newton, directed by Kim Manners 

In this episode, Mulder and Scully investigate a series of deaths that have taken place in a lake. As they investigate, they discover that a prehistoric creature, similar to the Loch Ness Monster, may be responsible for the deaths. The main characters are both heavily featured in this episode, as they work together to uncover the truth.

Trivia:

• The episode's title refers to the term "quagmire," which means a difficult or complicated situation.
• The episode was originally intended to be a "bottle episode," meaning that it would take place entirely within one location and feature a small cast of characters.
• The episode features a cameo by the show's creator, Chris Carter (not John Carter), who appears as a fisherman.

"Badlaa" – Season 8, episode 10, written by John Shiban, directed by Tony Wharmby

In this episode, Mulder and Scully investigate a series of bizarre deaths that seem to be connected to a mysterious Indian mystic. As they investigate, they discover that the mystic is actually a parasitic creature that can enter people's bodies and control their actions. The main characters are both heavily featured in this episode, as they work together to uncover the truth.

Trivia:

• The episode's title comes from the Hindi word "badla," which means "revenge."
• The episode was controversial due to its portrayal of Indian culture and the depiction of the Indian mystic as a villain.
• The episode features a guest appearance by actor Deep Roy, who had previously played a different character in the season 2 episode "The Host."

"Familiar" – Season 11, Episode 8, written by Benjamin Van Allen, directed by Holly Dale

 In this episode, Mulder and Scully investigate a series of child murders that seem to be connected to a mysterious creature called "Mr. Chuckleteeth." As they investigate, they discover that the creature may be a manifestation of a person's fears and anxieties. The main characters are both heavily featured in this episode, as they work together to uncover the truth.

Trivia:

• The episode's title comes from the idea of a "familiar," which is a supernatural entity that serves as a protector or servant to a witch or magician.
• The episode features a guest appearance by actor Alex Carter, who had previously played a different character in the season 7 episode "Chimera."
• The episode was praised for its exploration of themes related to fear, anxiety, and the power of imagination.

"Arcadia" - Season 6, Episode 15, written by Daniel Arkin and John Shiban, directed by Michael Watkins

In this episode, Mulder and Scully go undercover as a suburban couple to investigate a series of strange deaths in a gated community. As they investigate, they discover that the community has a dark secret and that their cover may be blown. The main characters are both heavily featured in this episode, as they work together to uncover the truth.

Trivia:

• The episode's title is a reference to the Arcadia movement, which was a 16th century European philosophical and literary movement that celebrated rural life and simplicity.
• The episode features a guest appearance by actress Jillian Barberie, who appears as a news anchor reporting on the events in the community.
• The episode was praised for its satirical take on suburban life and its use of humor to explore serious themes.

"X-Cops" - Season 7, Episode 12, written by Vince Gilligan, directed by Michael Watkins

In this episode, Mulder and Scully are featured on a reality TV show called "Cops" as they investigate a series of strange deaths in Los Angeles. As they investigate, they discover that the case may be connected to a creature called "The Trash Man," which appears to be a real-life version of a monster from a TV show called "The X-Files." The main characters are both heavily featured in this episode, as they work together to uncover the truth while being followed by a camera crew.

Trivia:

• The episode was inspired by the TV show "Cops" and was filmed in a similar style.
• The episode features several references to previous episodes of "The X-Files," including a cameo by actor Dean Haglund, who had previously played a character called Langly.
• The episode was well-received for its unique format and its ability to blend humor and horror.

"Roadrunners" - Season 8, Episode 4, written by John Shiban, directed by Rod Hardy

In this episode, Mulder goes missing while investigating a small desert town that appears to be populated by a strange cult. Scully travels to the town to search for him and discovers that the cult may be connected to a creature that can control people's minds. The main characters are both featured, but Scully takes center stage as she investigates on her own.

Trivia:

• The episode was filmed on location in the small desert town of Lone Pine, California.
• The episode features a guest appearance by actress Sharon Lawrence, who appears as a cult member.
• The episode was criticized for its portrayal of Native American culture and beliefs.

"Lord of the Flies" - Season 9, Episode 5, written by Thomas Schnauz, directed by Kim Manners

In this episode, Mulder and Doggett investigate a series of deaths on a small island off the coast of Georgia. As they investigate, they discover that the island may be inhabited by a creature that is related to a legendary sea monster. The main characters are both featured, but Doggett takes center stage as he works to solve the case.

Trivia:

• The episode's title is a reference to the novel "Lord of the Flies" by William Golding.
• The episode features a guest appearance by actor J.G. Hertzler, who appears as the owner of a local seafood restaurant.
• The episode was praised for its atmospheric setting and its use of the sea monster legend.

If you were looking for the legendary episode 'Home' bear in mind the characters were... human.

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