At this point in the series only two or three mythology-related episodes had aired and the direction of the alien/conspiracy plot arc was largely indiscernible. "E.B.E.," written by Glen Morgan and James Wong (better known for their early standalone episodes), takes things up a notch as government lies and cover-ups lead Mulder to question his trust in the only person he has trusted, Deep Throat. The entire feel of the episode is a very subtle one, lacking any cheap or sudden thrills - anyone expecting to see an aptly-named E.B.E. will be sorely disappointed - but compensates for this in its paranoid overtones and character development. The scene in which Mulder ransacks his entire apartment to find a bug behind an electrical socket is a case in point of the former, and even Scully panics upon finding something similar in a ballpoint. This episode is also notable for introducing the Lone Gunmen, who would make subsequent appearances in all nine seasons. While "E.B.E." took a few views to really appreciate, I consider it to be one of the best of season one. Great writing and acting, an eerie soundtrack, and just an overall sense of paranoia not found in later episodes make this one a classic.
20 Reviews
"In our line, nothing is just what it seems."
classicsoncall17 May 2017
Warning: Spoilers
Oh baby, now we're cookin'. There were prior shows in Season One that dealt with the UFO mythology arc, but this is the one that really demonstrated what Mulder was up against when it came to delving into the government's vast conspiracy to hide the evidence of extraterrestrials. The series even offered up a new term - 'extraterrestrial biological entity' - the E.B.E. on which the title of the episode is based.
This is also a revealing story in terms of how devious Deep Throat (Jerry Hardin) has to be when it comes to protecting his own butt while helping Mulder. We also learn why - as a CIA agent in Viet Nam, he killed an E.B.E. to disprove it's existence, and atones for it in the present day by coming to Mulder with information. Only problem is, he now plants disinformation with Mulder so that he and Scully have to work even harder at uncovering the truth. Almost sounds like a government program.
If all that weren't enough, we even have the introduction of the Lone Gunmen in this episode, riffing on Scully's 'hotness' and delving into their own unique brand of paranoia and conspiracy. Things really started to gell with this episode, to the point that you actually expected to see an alien when Mulder turned the corner on the glass enclosure at Mattawa. Instead we had Deep Throat once more, adding more mystery and intrigue for fans of the series to latch on to. The way this one ended was great, with Deep Throat doing the old Casablanca walk into the fog leaving Mulder to contemplate his fate and future hunting aliens and UFO's. It looked like the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
This is also a revealing story in terms of how devious Deep Throat (Jerry Hardin) has to be when it comes to protecting his own butt while helping Mulder. We also learn why - as a CIA agent in Viet Nam, he killed an E.B.E. to disprove it's existence, and atones for it in the present day by coming to Mulder with information. Only problem is, he now plants disinformation with Mulder so that he and Scully have to work even harder at uncovering the truth. Almost sounds like a government program.
If all that weren't enough, we even have the introduction of the Lone Gunmen in this episode, riffing on Scully's 'hotness' and delving into their own unique brand of paranoia and conspiracy. Things really started to gell with this episode, to the point that you actually expected to see an alien when Mulder turned the corner on the glass enclosure at Mattawa. Instead we had Deep Throat once more, adding more mystery and intrigue for fans of the series to latch on to. The way this one ended was great, with Deep Throat doing the old Casablanca walk into the fog leaving Mulder to contemplate his fate and future hunting aliens and UFO's. It looked like the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
Extra-terrestrial Bilogical Entity
hrkepler1 June 2018
Another great episode from season one, and this one is also remarkable for many reasons. 'E.B.E.' was the debut episode for The Lone Gunmen, group of likable eccentrics conspiracy theorists who occasionally provide help and information for Mulder. We also get to know more backstory of Deep Throat and also more questions will be raised about his real intentions. Well written tight and tense episode which uses a lot of UFO mythology.
It was also the first time I ever heard the term E.B.E. - Extra-terrestrial Biological Entity.
It was also the first time I ever heard the term E.B.E. - Extra-terrestrial Biological Entity.
The mythology arc is born here
ametaphysicalshark7 September 2008
True, a couple of earlier episodes deal with UFO's and the like, but "E.B.E." is the first episode which takes the form of your average season 2-5 mythology episode, and is the first to show an indication of the extent of the government cover-up and conspiracy, well beyond what we had seen in previous episodes, and this time directly in relation to Mulder and Scully.
"E.B.E." is an oddity as a mythology episode since it was written by James Wong and Glen Morgan, who usually wrote spooky standalone episodes. This is a different sort of script for them, but they pull it off brilliantly, with a lot of excellent dialogue and memorable scenes, such as Scully's first meeting with the Lone Gunmen, us learning more about Deep Throat's background, if he is to be believed. I do find it odd that the episode which was very much the launching point for the mythology story was not written by the people who eventually carried on the story.
"E.B.E." features some outstanding use of smoke cinematography-wise, which lends the episode a great atmosphere. The same trick would continue to feature prominently in the second and third seasons which were also photographed by John Bartley. The musical score is also excellent, with one tune in particular being quite haunting and memorable.
"E.B.E." is very much a personal favorite as it was the first episode I properly sat down and watched, and got me hooked instantly. In a first season with precious few great episodes it shines even more than it does in comparison to most episodes in later seasons, and it lays the foundation for not only the masterful season finale "The Erlenmeyer Flask", but for the many great mythology episodes to come.
What an outstanding episode.
10/10
"E.B.E." is an oddity as a mythology episode since it was written by James Wong and Glen Morgan, who usually wrote spooky standalone episodes. This is a different sort of script for them, but they pull it off brilliantly, with a lot of excellent dialogue and memorable scenes, such as Scully's first meeting with the Lone Gunmen, us learning more about Deep Throat's background, if he is to be believed. I do find it odd that the episode which was very much the launching point for the mythology story was not written by the people who eventually carried on the story.
"E.B.E." features some outstanding use of smoke cinematography-wise, which lends the episode a great atmosphere. The same trick would continue to feature prominently in the second and third seasons which were also photographed by John Bartley. The musical score is also excellent, with one tune in particular being quite haunting and memorable.
"E.B.E." is very much a personal favorite as it was the first episode I properly sat down and watched, and got me hooked instantly. In a first season with precious few great episodes it shines even more than it does in comparison to most episodes in later seasons, and it lays the foundation for not only the masterful season finale "The Erlenmeyer Flask", but for the many great mythology episodes to come.
What an outstanding episode.
10/10
E.T. Phone Home!
Muldernscully14 April 2006
E.B.E. kicks the mythology into high gear. This episode has everything: danger, suspense, deception, humor, wit, and action. Before this episode I had always referred to aliens as extra-terrestrials (E.T.). This was the first time I had heard the expression extra-terrestrial biological entity (E.B.E). Too bad Spielberg's film wasn't called E.B.E.. And of course, besides the excellent and exciting story, a good reason to see this episode is for the introduction of the Lone Gunmen, a trio of paranoid men who help Mulder out with their expertise from time to time. What makes this episode stand out is that previously Deep Throat has given Mulder information to help him on a case. In this episode, however, he intentionally misleads Mulder. It makes you wonder what Deep Throat's motives truly are. E.B.E. is a top-notch episode that helps you to see whether it's remotely plausible that someone might thing Scully is hot.
Don't stop swimming
Kendich8916 January 2018
E.B.E is a taught and suspenseful episode, teetering on the verge of paranoia. Up to this point the show's been feeling its way along, mostly aimlessly, trying to figure out where it's headed and what it's going to be about.
We've got some hints and bits of disjointed and apparently unrelated events and phenomena of the overarching plot, but that's all. The producers knew it and we knew it- they had to dig up a solid theme.
E.B.E. was the answer, and a good one at that.
The introduction of the Lonegunmen added yet another layer of texture and substance, broadening the show's background, bringing a refreshment and further ingenuity and, to some extent, taking some burden off Mulder and Scully's shoulders, giving them somebody to bank on every now and then.
Not showing too much was also a nice touch, raising the tension and expectations higher. We know now that the US government is in the possession of an extraterrestrial being, and later on we become privy to the government's intentions in relation to it. As the episode went along, we got one answer followed by a dozen lies, as frustration was growing stronger in Mulder on screen. It was even more successful on an emotional level that on story line, come to think of it. The lead characters were apparently becoming more and more unnerved as they realized they'd been spied on, lied to, and purposely fed misinformation.
Toward the end of the episode Deep Throat hints at Roswell Incident as being the beginning of an international agreement on destroying any E.B.E. should it establishes a contact with a particular country. This suggests that the Roswell Incident was in fact authentic, which contradicts another statement from DT later made in The Erlenmeyer Flask, dubbing it a 'smokescreen'.
But I guess that's the price you pay when you get tangled up in a plot so convoluted- it's hard to keep everything in check. Be it as it may, this episode bears enough merit as to grant it a pardon for the mistakes it made.
Main thing I can point out is that E.B.E. is a quintessential X Files episode that pretty much stands out among the crowd.
The introduction of the Lonegunmen added yet another layer of texture and substance, broadening the show's background, bringing a refreshment and further ingenuity and, to some extent, taking some burden off Mulder and Scully's shoulders, giving them somebody to bank on every now and then.
Not showing too much was also a nice touch, raising the tension and expectations higher. We know now that the US government is in the possession of an extraterrestrial being, and later on we become privy to the government's intentions in relation to it. As the episode went along, we got one answer followed by a dozen lies, as frustration was growing stronger in Mulder on screen. It was even more successful on an emotional level that on story line, come to think of it. The lead characters were apparently becoming more and more unnerved as they realized they'd been spied on, lied to, and purposely fed misinformation.
Toward the end of the episode Deep Throat hints at Roswell Incident as being the beginning of an international agreement on destroying any E.B.E. should it establishes a contact with a particular country. This suggests that the Roswell Incident was in fact authentic, which contradicts another statement from DT later made in The Erlenmeyer Flask, dubbing it a 'smokescreen'.
But I guess that's the price you pay when you get tangled up in a plot so convoluted- it's hard to keep everything in check. Be it as it may, this episode bears enough merit as to grant it a pardon for the mistakes it made.
Main thing I can point out is that E.B.E. is a quintessential X Files episode that pretty much stands out among the crowd.
Extra terrestrial Biological Entity
thebigeasy55522 September 2006
Information regarding a UFO which has been shot down over Iraq and secretly transported the U.S. has been conveyed to Mulder from Deep Throat.However previously where Deep Throat has appeared to be helpful and attempt to guide Mulder in the right direction isn't repeated in this episode.He blatantly lies to Mulder to cover up the truth of what really happened.Also in this episode is the debut of the much loved Lone Gunmen characters.Mulders paranoid friends who like showing off their technical knowledge with the express aim of aiding him on his cases.An exciting episode where many more questions are asked about Deep Throat and what his true motives are and the first sightings of the highly likable Lone Gunmen
That's why we like you Mulder...
Sanpaco1316 November 2007
Warning: Spoilers
E.B.E. the Limerick:
UFOs seen everywhere
Means something's definitely up there.
There's taps and bugs
Which Mulder unplugs
And give Scully a bit of a scare.
E.B.E. is a great mythology episode. It starts with a UFO crash and Mulder and Scully trying to find the surviving Extra Terrestrial Biological Entity which survived the crash. Through the search we meet the Lone Gunmen for the first time, we get to see all kinds of electronics surveillance and bugs, Mulder and Scully taking paranoid measures to escape the government, Mulder loses faith in Deep Throat, and much much more. This is indeed a complex episode and I really enjoyed the conspiracy theory elements that it brings. I love Scully's first reaction to the Lone Gunmen talking about how paranoid they are and then the immediate twist of her finding the bug in the pen and becoming just as paranoid herself for the rest of the episode. Anyway I don't know if there's a lot to say other than I like the episode. 10/10.
UFOs seen everywhere
Means something's definitely up there.
There's taps and bugs
Which Mulder unplugs
And give Scully a bit of a scare.
E.B.E. is a great mythology episode. It starts with a UFO crash and Mulder and Scully trying to find the surviving Extra Terrestrial Biological Entity which survived the crash. Through the search we meet the Lone Gunmen for the first time, we get to see all kinds of electronics surveillance and bugs, Mulder and Scully taking paranoid measures to escape the government, Mulder loses faith in Deep Throat, and much much more. This is indeed a complex episode and I really enjoyed the conspiracy theory elements that it brings. I love Scully's first reaction to the Lone Gunmen talking about how paranoid they are and then the immediate twist of her finding the bug in the pen and becoming just as paranoid herself for the rest of the episode. Anyway I don't know if there's a lot to say other than I like the episode. 10/10.
The truth is out there, but so are lies.
Sleepin_Dragon18 September 2020
Misinformation and red herrings are thrown into the path of Mulder and Scully, as the powers that be are trying hard to throw them off a scent.
Paranoia, drama, intrigue, suspense, they are all driven to the max. This is definitely one of the best episodes from this first series, it is a terrific episode, it's a great story, impeccably delivered.
Mulder and Scully feel like a very united duo here.
We learn what the term E.B.E is, and get introduced to some of Mulder's friends. There really is so much rich content here.
Deep Throat has been a constant, and been somewhat helpful for Mulder, could this be a turning point, is he perhaps not all he's cracked up to be? Hardin is great.
This was an impressive watch, 10/10.
Paranoia, drama, intrigue, suspense, they are all driven to the max. This is definitely one of the best episodes from this first series, it is a terrific episode, it's a great story, impeccably delivered.
Mulder and Scully feel like a very united duo here.
We learn what the term E.B.E is, and get introduced to some of Mulder's friends. There really is so much rich content here.
Deep Throat has been a constant, and been somewhat helpful for Mulder, could this be a turning point, is he perhaps not all he's cracked up to be? Hardin is great.
This was an impressive watch, 10/10.
Very good episode
derangedxzombie9 June 2021
America's Most Paranoid
jigsaw_vuk27 January 2008
Warning: Spoilers
The first time I saw this episode, I thought it was very boring, but after watching the first seven seasons of the series, I changed my mind. Now I think that it is a solid Mythology episode.
Good Points:
-This episode introduces The Lone Gunmen, the most paranoid people Scully's ever seen;)
-The whole "She's hot","She is hot" thing.
-Scully's attitude when Byers rips the $20 bill.
-The aquarium scene
-We learn some more information about Deep Throat
-Scully finds out about Deep Throat
Bad Points:
-The teaser was very, very boring:(
-I don't get it, was there, or was there not, an alien being in this episode. Deep Throat says it's lying dead, but when Mulder takes a look there is nothing in there.
-If the picture "Was made by our very best", it would have been made to be a lot more convincing.
Good Points:
-This episode introduces The Lone Gunmen, the most paranoid people Scully's ever seen;)
-The whole "She's hot","She is hot" thing.
-Scully's attitude when Byers rips the $20 bill.
-The aquarium scene
-We learn some more information about Deep Throat
-Scully finds out about Deep Throat
Bad Points:
-The teaser was very, very boring:(
-I don't get it, was there, or was there not, an alien being in this episode. Deep Throat says it's lying dead, but when Mulder takes a look there is nothing in there.
-If the picture "Was made by our very best", it would have been made to be a lot more convincing.
E.B.E. - Extraterrestrial biological entity in the mythology of a Sci-Fi kick-ass flick episode!
ivo-cobra816 June 2016
E.B.E. is the sixth appearance of Jerry Hardin as Deep Throat, this is an episode in the mythology of the first season. Here we are introduced in to The Lone Gunmen team (Bruce Harwood, Tom Braidwood, Dean Haglund). In this episode we have Mulder and Scully tracking down a truck that transports extraterrestrial living been in the trailer. They are been bugged and someone was listening to them. The only person thy can trust is their self's. In this episode we see Deep Throat in a different light who tried to sent Mulder and Scully on a wild goose chase for a search on a wrong air craft UFO. Mulder trusted Deep Throat only to find out, he was miss leading him. From the Season One Deep Throat (Jerry Hardin) as Mulder's ally is in my opinion my favorite character. I liked him much more than Steven Williams Mr. X.
"E.B.E." (extraterrestrial biological entity)"
Plot: Mulder and Scully receive information from Deep Throat about a UFO that was shot down over Iraq and has been secretly transported to the US. However, Deep Throat then intentionally misleads the agents to prevent them from discovering the truth. The Lone Gunmen (Bruce Harwood, Dean Haglund and Tom Braidwood) are introduced.
In the opening scene we see a pilot flying over Iraq who shots down an invincible UFO. The UFO is transported trough US in the truck and a driver who stars firing with a shot gun an unseen creature.
We see Mulder and Scully investigating this case.
When we are introduced in to The Lone Gunmen: Melvin Frohike (Tom Braidwood) calls Scully hot! He is so damn right Scully (Gillian Anderson) is incredible gorgeous beautiful hot in this episode flick! She is damn hot I love her to death and I want to marry her. She is so sexy that my tongue fall down.
I love the chemistry between the two leads Mulder and Scully that they relay on each other and they only have to trust each other.
In my opinion Scully (Gillian Anderson) was very intelligent she spot the phony photography right away way, while Mulder (David Duchovny) was blinded and miss leaded by Deep Throat's lies.
On the end we find out why Deep Throat lied to Mulder and Scully and why he choose Mulder for his ally.
We found out more background about Deep Throat.
Everything began in Roswell 1947 and the cover up about UFO.
I love this Episode to death and it is my favorite episode in the first season. First Season still kicks ass I love the stakeout and the hunt for the truck carrying extraterrestrial life.
I like how Mulder tracks Druce and the E.B.E. to a power plant in Mattawa, Washington. With assistance from the Lone Gunmen, the agents are able to enter the plant with fake identification. Their unfamiliarity soon gives them away, but Mulder flees from the guards through a restricted area and is about to approach the room where the creature is held when armed guards stop him.
I still don't know why Scully confess to guard that she is an FBI agent on a case and she expose them both is beyond me.
In this episode I Love Gillian Anderson more than in other episodes and Jerry Hardin much more than David Duchovny.
I love this episode to death and E.B.E.is also one of my favorite episodes.
Everyone from this episode from writers to director and the cast did an amazing job.
Glen Morgan and James Wong did again an outstanding job writing the plot for the mythology episode. I still can't wait to re watch Season 3 on DVD again and write more reviews about my favorite TV Show.
Season 3 was honestly my first season of The X-Files that I have watched all episodes. I was never bored with the first four seasons of The X-Files, but for some reason I can't watch Season 5, but I can enjoy Season 6 more because episode Triangle was also Episode that I have taped on VHS.
Season One will still be the season in The X-Files for me in this season you don't have complicated or sad episodes so I like that more in this TV Show.
Scully is still a hot sexy babe in this episode and this episode is intelligent , brilliant and fun to watch.
This episode get's 10 out of 10 for one of my favorite mythology episodes of all time. The 90's still has awesome movies and TV Shows that I love.
The first season of the science fiction television series The X-Files commenced airing on the Fox network in the United States on September 10, 1993, and concluded on the same channel on May 13, 1994, after airing all 24 episodes.
"E.B.E." (short for extraterrestrial biological entity) is the seventeenth episode of the first season of the American science fiction television series The X-Files. It premiered on the Fox network on February 18, 1994. It was written by Glen Morgan and James Wong, and directed by William Graham. The episode introduced the recurring characters of The Lone Gunmen, played by Bruce Harwood, Dean Haglund and Tom Braidwood; and saw Jerry Hardin reprise his role as Deep Throat. The episode helped explore the series' overarching mythology. "E.B.E." earned a Nielsen household rating of 6.2, being watched by 5.8 million households in its initial broadcast; and received positive reviews from critics.
10/10 Grade: Bad Ass Seal Of Approval Studio: Twentieth Century Fox Starring: David Duchovny, Gillian Anderson, Jerry Hardin, Allan Lysell, Peter LaCroix, Bruce Harwood, Dean Haglund, Tom Braidwood Director: William Graham Producers: Chris Carter, Joseph Patrick Finn, Glen Morgan, James Wong Screenplay: Glen Morgan, James Wong Rated: R Running Time: 45 minutes
"E.B.E." (extraterrestrial biological entity)"
Plot: Mulder and Scully receive information from Deep Throat about a UFO that was shot down over Iraq and has been secretly transported to the US. However, Deep Throat then intentionally misleads the agents to prevent them from discovering the truth. The Lone Gunmen (Bruce Harwood, Dean Haglund and Tom Braidwood) are introduced.
In the opening scene we see a pilot flying over Iraq who shots down an invincible UFO. The UFO is transported trough US in the truck and a driver who stars firing with a shot gun an unseen creature.
We see Mulder and Scully investigating this case.
When we are introduced in to The Lone Gunmen: Melvin Frohike (Tom Braidwood) calls Scully hot! He is so damn right Scully (Gillian Anderson) is incredible gorgeous beautiful hot in this episode flick! She is damn hot I love her to death and I want to marry her. She is so sexy that my tongue fall down.
I love the chemistry between the two leads Mulder and Scully that they relay on each other and they only have to trust each other.
In my opinion Scully (Gillian Anderson) was very intelligent she spot the phony photography right away way, while Mulder (David Duchovny) was blinded and miss leaded by Deep Throat's lies.
On the end we find out why Deep Throat lied to Mulder and Scully and why he choose Mulder for his ally.
We found out more background about Deep Throat.
Everything began in Roswell 1947 and the cover up about UFO.
I love this Episode to death and it is my favorite episode in the first season. First Season still kicks ass I love the stakeout and the hunt for the truck carrying extraterrestrial life.
I like how Mulder tracks Druce and the E.B.E. to a power plant in Mattawa, Washington. With assistance from the Lone Gunmen, the agents are able to enter the plant with fake identification. Their unfamiliarity soon gives them away, but Mulder flees from the guards through a restricted area and is about to approach the room where the creature is held when armed guards stop him.
I still don't know why Scully confess to guard that she is an FBI agent on a case and she expose them both is beyond me.
In this episode I Love Gillian Anderson more than in other episodes and Jerry Hardin much more than David Duchovny.
I love this episode to death and E.B.E.is also one of my favorite episodes.
Everyone from this episode from writers to director and the cast did an amazing job.
Glen Morgan and James Wong did again an outstanding job writing the plot for the mythology episode. I still can't wait to re watch Season 3 on DVD again and write more reviews about my favorite TV Show.
Season 3 was honestly my first season of The X-Files that I have watched all episodes. I was never bored with the first four seasons of The X-Files, but for some reason I can't watch Season 5, but I can enjoy Season 6 more because episode Triangle was also Episode that I have taped on VHS.
Season One will still be the season in The X-Files for me in this season you don't have complicated or sad episodes so I like that more in this TV Show.
Scully is still a hot sexy babe in this episode and this episode is intelligent , brilliant and fun to watch.
This episode get's 10 out of 10 for one of my favorite mythology episodes of all time. The 90's still has awesome movies and TV Shows that I love.
The first season of the science fiction television series The X-Files commenced airing on the Fox network in the United States on September 10, 1993, and concluded on the same channel on May 13, 1994, after airing all 24 episodes.
"E.B.E." (short for extraterrestrial biological entity) is the seventeenth episode of the first season of the American science fiction television series The X-Files. It premiered on the Fox network on February 18, 1994. It was written by Glen Morgan and James Wong, and directed by William Graham. The episode introduced the recurring characters of The Lone Gunmen, played by Bruce Harwood, Dean Haglund and Tom Braidwood; and saw Jerry Hardin reprise his role as Deep Throat. The episode helped explore the series' overarching mythology. "E.B.E." earned a Nielsen household rating of 6.2, being watched by 5.8 million households in its initial broadcast; and received positive reviews from critics.
10/10 Grade: Bad Ass Seal Of Approval Studio: Twentieth Century Fox Starring: David Duchovny, Gillian Anderson, Jerry Hardin, Allan Lysell, Peter LaCroix, Bruce Harwood, Dean Haglund, Tom Braidwood Director: William Graham Producers: Chris Carter, Joseph Patrick Finn, Glen Morgan, James Wong Screenplay: Glen Morgan, James Wong Rated: R Running Time: 45 minutes
a little slow
SleepTight66620 July 2008
Warning: Spoilers
Just like most of the first season's Mythology. I think that the episode is very well done. But a little slow and not outstanding like some of the later season's mythology.
I like the fact that Deep Throat actually got more scenes. This is the episode where he appeared the most in and I really liked the guy. Another strong thing about it is that it introduced us The Lone Gunmen. I really loved them as background characters, and loved them in this episode.
Other than that, the episode is not too memorable. but well written, I think it had some of the best Sculder scenes of the first season.
I'm giving this another THREE star. But definitely one of the best so far.
I like the fact that Deep Throat actually got more scenes. This is the episode where he appeared the most in and I really liked the guy. Another strong thing about it is that it introduced us The Lone Gunmen. I really loved them as background characters, and loved them in this episode.
Other than that, the episode is not too memorable. but well written, I think it had some of the best Sculder scenes of the first season.
I'm giving this another THREE star. But definitely one of the best so far.
Deeper Throat
AudioFileZ4 April 2012
Warning: Spoilers
O.K, so it's a "myth-arc" episode. This immediately catapults it to a higher status with hardcore fans, but it's somewhat slow and it reaches to be more dangerous than it comes off in being.
A downed UFO and a supposed Extraterestrial Biological Entity (the title) is brought back to the US for examination. The aliens follow presumably to retrieve their property. Mulder and Scully trek to Tennessee as a trucker experiences a sighting as his rig is totally incapacitated. As the story unfolds we're led to believe this is all to fool anyone, aliens and/or Mulder and Scully. This is kind of lame since it exactly what leads Mulder and Scully into their investigation in the first place. Their continuance in finding the cross-country long haul is hinted to be putting them in great danger of which little materializes. It is kind of much ado about nothing in many ways.
Still, in spite of the holes this episode brings some good to the table. It raises the bar on the Deep Throat/Mulder union. Mulder, heretofore, thinks Deep Throat is revealing truths that he is risking life and limb to reveal. In this episode he realizes that Deep Throat may be something other than a source of credible information he should always take as the wholesale truth. Now he must filter anything Deep Throat says through his own combination of facts, paranoia, and intuition. This makes Deep Throat much more interesting as has been hinted in a previous episode where he was clearly playing both sides to a totally unsuspecting Mulder. Also, we get the great comic relief of the uber-paranoid "Lone Gunmen" trio for the first of several recurring times. These guys are pure gold in a series that has some difficulty mixing in effective humor.
Like most regular viewers I like the alien based episodes. As has been stated elsewhere in another review on this site this is, in a way, the birth of the real myth-arc thing so even though it's slow, even cheesy, it has a place in the cannon as it exposes more light on Deep Throat and the extent of the government's complacent. Watch for these reasons and the WSM 650 radio ad/advice for Goody's headache powders as the miracle morning after cure (the aliens can even change a radio from AM to FM...They do have miraculous powers).
A downed UFO and a supposed Extraterestrial Biological Entity (the title) is brought back to the US for examination. The aliens follow presumably to retrieve their property. Mulder and Scully trek to Tennessee as a trucker experiences a sighting as his rig is totally incapacitated. As the story unfolds we're led to believe this is all to fool anyone, aliens and/or Mulder and Scully. This is kind of lame since it exactly what leads Mulder and Scully into their investigation in the first place. Their continuance in finding the cross-country long haul is hinted to be putting them in great danger of which little materializes. It is kind of much ado about nothing in many ways.
Still, in spite of the holes this episode brings some good to the table. It raises the bar on the Deep Throat/Mulder union. Mulder, heretofore, thinks Deep Throat is revealing truths that he is risking life and limb to reveal. In this episode he realizes that Deep Throat may be something other than a source of credible information he should always take as the wholesale truth. Now he must filter anything Deep Throat says through his own combination of facts, paranoia, and intuition. This makes Deep Throat much more interesting as has been hinted in a previous episode where he was clearly playing both sides to a totally unsuspecting Mulder. Also, we get the great comic relief of the uber-paranoid "Lone Gunmen" trio for the first of several recurring times. These guys are pure gold in a series that has some difficulty mixing in effective humor.
Like most regular viewers I like the alien based episodes. As has been stated elsewhere in another review on this site this is, in a way, the birth of the real myth-arc thing so even though it's slow, even cheesy, it has a place in the cannon as it exposes more light on Deep Throat and the extent of the government's complacent. Watch for these reasons and the WSM 650 radio ad/advice for Goody's headache powders as the miracle morning after cure (the aliens can even change a radio from AM to FM...They do have miraculous powers).
Maybe the best episode of I have seen
CursedChico17 October 2020
Warning: Spoilers
At last scully does not deny. Also made mulder not to believe in the photo. Normally, scully was in that position. She did not believe in anything that is not scientific.
And at last, mulder contacted that activist group. I hope they can go together. And mulder needs a journalist. Why is he alone?
I was always worried that they would die for all season. But clearly, they dont need to kill mulder.
And at last the big boss said alien is dead but probably it was a lie :)
And at last, mulder contacted that activist group. I hope they can go together. And mulder needs a journalist. Why is he alone?
I was always worried that they would die for all season. But clearly, they dont need to kill mulder.
And at last the big boss said alien is dead but probably it was a lie :)
ET Is And In French...
Dresden_Doll_1012 September 2007
Warning: Spoilers
I couldn't think of anything for the title so I just put that. xD E.B.E is a great episode to do with aliens and so. I never really liked it when I first seen it, but it has grown on me. It is actually a very interesting episode, which is also the first showing on The Lone Gunmen. <3 Anyway, i'll say some good and bad points about this episode,
The Good: The pen bug. And I didn't even notice.
The Lone Gunmen. <33
Wow, it must be hard to fake a UFO picture...
Deep Throat's "Don't stop swimming". :)
Scully's a little Devil's Advocate. ;)
The Bad: I didn't really get the stopwatch thing...
Conclusion: A good, well rounded episode, about the main X File topic... Aliens. 8/10
The Good: The pen bug. And I didn't even notice.
The Lone Gunmen. <33
Wow, it must be hard to fake a UFO picture...
Deep Throat's "Don't stop swimming". :)
Scully's a little Devil's Advocate. ;)
The Bad: I didn't really get the stopwatch thing...
Conclusion: A good, well rounded episode, about the main X File topic... Aliens. 8/10
Mulder: I think it's remotely plausible that someone might think you're hot.
bombersflyup4 May 2020
Warning: Spoilers
E.B.E. is about Mulder and Scully tracking the government's transport of an alien life form.
A solid episode, the plot and resolution of it may come up empty, but it's a characterization explosion. We're introduced the Lone Gunmen, a rambunctious trio. You've got Scully giving a speech about passion, dedication and lies and you've got Mulder risking his life in his pursuit. Deep Throat's significance goes up a peg, as he tells of how he's one of only three men to be in a position of power to eliminate such a being. Quality dialogue throughout.
Deep Throat: And a lie, Mr. Mulder, is most convincingly hidden between two truths.
A solid episode, the plot and resolution of it may come up empty, but it's a characterization explosion. We're introduced the Lone Gunmen, a rambunctious trio. You've got Scully giving a speech about passion, dedication and lies and you've got Mulder risking his life in his pursuit. Deep Throat's significance goes up a peg, as he tells of how he's one of only three men to be in a position of power to eliminate such a being. Quality dialogue throughout.
Deep Throat: And a lie, Mr. Mulder, is most convincingly hidden between two truths.
Little Green Dance!..
hamidullahgenc20 March 2018
This episode is a classic that represents the tone this series has. It has extraterrestrial elements, unexplained phenomenon, the distinct personalities of agents Mulder and Scully, as well as the way the secret government operates (as in the case of Deep Throat.)
One cannot keep away from the show after getting the strong taste out of this episode.
Okay, to the bottom of this:
We could say that for nearly half a century, the voices from the USA have been trying to raise awareness to the possibility of "trewe encounter with the extraterrestrial beings" that are later to be cleared away, or denied existence by the secret government of the USA.
Moreover, this claim or "idea" was adopted by the everyday folk and the outsiders in the community, as well as the artists that would produce books, movies and series.
To this point, everything seems normal. Yes.
But what if they are spreading the claims on purpose?.. "They" as in the secret people that hold the emperialistic ropes.
We are now used to the idea of "extraterrestrial beings on Earth." So, when the oil drains, the excuse to invade countries, or to practise the eugenics under the false pretence that the DNA is retrieved from the "little green men."
Am I too hysterical?.. Oh, maybe I, too, am in this...
Woe... I have just helped the cause.
P.S.: If my culture is concerned, Islam is not against the possibility of extraterrestrial life whatsoever.
It is even mentioned in the Gracious Koran that there are the Djin alongside the Human, the Animal, the Plant on this Earth. So, what is not mentioned or hinted at in Islam simply cannot "exist" not!..
For instance, it says there is no god other than Allah, it disavows any other god. (Relax, people! For the believer, this is!)
Furthermore, the Koran, on a number of Verses, warns the believer to draw lessons from the the sky, the Earth, and the existence in between.
Here:
"O company of jinn and humankind, in case you are able to penetrate (all) regions of the heavens and the earth, then penetrate (them)! Ye will never penetrate them save with (Our) all-binding sanction."
The 33rd Verse of the 55th Chapter (The Beneficent) in the Gracious Koran.
Amen.
One cannot keep away from the show after getting the strong taste out of this episode.
Okay, to the bottom of this:
We could say that for nearly half a century, the voices from the USA have been trying to raise awareness to the possibility of "trewe encounter with the extraterrestrial beings" that are later to be cleared away, or denied existence by the secret government of the USA.
Moreover, this claim or "idea" was adopted by the everyday folk and the outsiders in the community, as well as the artists that would produce books, movies and series.
To this point, everything seems normal. Yes.
But what if they are spreading the claims on purpose?.. "They" as in the secret people that hold the emperialistic ropes.
We are now used to the idea of "extraterrestrial beings on Earth." So, when the oil drains, the excuse to invade countries, or to practise the eugenics under the false pretence that the DNA is retrieved from the "little green men."
Am I too hysterical?.. Oh, maybe I, too, am in this...
Woe... I have just helped the cause.
P.S.: If my culture is concerned, Islam is not against the possibility of extraterrestrial life whatsoever.
It is even mentioned in the Gracious Koran that there are the Djin alongside the Human, the Animal, the Plant on this Earth. So, what is not mentioned or hinted at in Islam simply cannot "exist" not!..
For instance, it says there is no god other than Allah, it disavows any other god. (Relax, people! For the believer, this is!)
Furthermore, the Koran, on a number of Verses, warns the believer to draw lessons from the the sky, the Earth, and the existence in between.
Here:
"O company of jinn and humankind, in case you are able to penetrate (all) regions of the heavens and the earth, then penetrate (them)! Ye will never penetrate them save with (Our) all-binding sanction."
The 33rd Verse of the 55th Chapter (The Beneficent) in the Gracious Koran.
Amen.
I have never met anyone so passionate and dedicated to a belief as you. It's so intense that sometimes it's blinding.
alexandercappelli9 August 2015
Warning: Spoilers
"I have never met anyone so passionate and dedicated to a belief as you. It's so intense that sometimes it's blinding." – Dana Scully.
Episode 17, 'E.B.E', original air date February 18th, 1994. Written by Glen Morgan and James Wong, directed by William Graham. Mythology episode count, 4. It's a common misconception that the majority of the X-Files episodes centred around aliens. Extra-terrestrial biological entities, or E.B.E's, were only one part of the series diverse range of subject matter as we can see that 17 episodes in to season one and this is only the fourth time a show has directly focused on this theme. Morgan & Wong, masters of the standalone monster of the week episodes try their hand at expanding the mythology with their second last entry for season one, and it's a solid accomplishment. The plot is brimming with ideas and substance so much so that the episode feels longer than the standard 44 minute affair. Graham's direction keeps the story moving forward, ensuring there's never a dull moment. He weaves us through a varied blend of drama, suspense and action, infused with some light-hearted moments courtesy of the finely tuned script from Morgan & Wong. The episode also holds a certain significance in that it introduces us to 'The Lone Gunmen'. Arguably three of the most beloved guest characters in the series, their overwhelming popularity with both the fan-base and the writing staff earning them a shot at their own spin-off series later down the line. It's worth mentioning that Mark Snow, who scored all 202 episodes, does a terrific job at building the suspense and heightening the drama throughout this episode. His soundtrack has always played an integral part in constructing the unique tone of the show and this episode is no exception.
'E.B.E' revolves around the crash of an alien space craft, which was shot down over Turkey by an Iraqi fighter pilot and the subsequent extermination of the alien life form on board. In Tennessee, a truck driver experiences an anomalous event when his vehicle grinds to a halt and he witnesses a flash of light, leaving him scared and disoriented. Through the help of Deepthroat's classified information, Mulder learns of the U.F.O crash in Turkey and Scully discovers the truck driver's true identity as a willing participant in the capture of an E.B.E. As the pair relentlessly pursue their various leads it becomes clear that Deepthroat has deceived them with false information in order to prevent the alarming truth reaching the public and causing mass panic. As it turns out, Mulder is being subverted by elaborate hoaxes designed to look like alien abductions in the hope that he will blindly concede to the most obvious conclusion and abandon the search. Aware of the governments intentions to steer him down the wrong path, he enlists the help of The Long Gunmen in order to infiltrate a highly guarded power plant in Washington where he comes painfully close to uncovering the truth behind extra terrestrial life on earth.
There's a lot going in in this episode and in less capable hands this could have resulted in a convoluted mess. Thanks to the talents of both the writers and director however, we're treated to a well paced and coherent development of plot that keeps the tension high throughout. Deepthroat enters the mix once again and unlike the previous episode, Morgan & Wong know how to use the character. This time around his involvement plays an integral role in the advancement of the plot and we learn a little about his motivations behind helping Mulder. We see Mulder signal him with a blue light from his window, a method of communication the two have presumably developed before now. Through his confessions to Mulder we learn that Deepthroat has played a fundamental role in the cover up of aliens throughout his long career. He's now tortured both by the unspeakable things he's done and seen. He's hoping that through providing Mulder with support he may find some type of redemption.
Up until now Mulder's unconventional theories have caused him to appear as an outcast. Even Scully, as supportive as she may be, regularly struggles to concede to Mulder's extreme viewpoints. The Lone Gunmen serve as a group of radical thinkers who's shared ideology falls directly in line with Mulder's off beat approach. It makes perfect sense that he would find friendship in the likes of these three conspiracy theorists. The characters themselves are well written, even at this early stage. Though they receive minimal screen time in this episode we can instantly identify them as three clearly individual yet equally minded characters. John Fitzgerald Byers (Bruce Harwood) presents a clean cut look with his neatly parted hair and suit and a mild mannered approach that directly contrasts Richard Langly's (Dean Haglund) unkempt per-pubescent tech nerd look with his long hair and off-beat sensibility. Melvin Frohike, played by the series Assistant Director Tom Braidwood, is the quick witted sleazy older member who acts like a self appointed leader of the trio. The Lone Gunmen are evidence that the series was able to weave comedy seamlessly between moments of heartfelt drama. The group will be used throughout the series predominantly as comic relief, though they are such well developed and interesting characters in their own right that audiences will grow to care about them over the course of the series as valuable additions to the X-Files family.
If any viewers were still on the fence about the strength of the series overarching conspiracy plot line, 'E.B.E' settles the argument and paves the way for the long road ahead. This entry is a stellar contribution to the mythology's slow burn that proves once again that the X-Files team were capable of producing an unparalleled quality of television that still stands the test of time.
Episode 17, 'E.B.E', original air date February 18th, 1994. Written by Glen Morgan and James Wong, directed by William Graham. Mythology episode count, 4. It's a common misconception that the majority of the X-Files episodes centred around aliens. Extra-terrestrial biological entities, or E.B.E's, were only one part of the series diverse range of subject matter as we can see that 17 episodes in to season one and this is only the fourth time a show has directly focused on this theme. Morgan & Wong, masters of the standalone monster of the week episodes try their hand at expanding the mythology with their second last entry for season one, and it's a solid accomplishment. The plot is brimming with ideas and substance so much so that the episode feels longer than the standard 44 minute affair. Graham's direction keeps the story moving forward, ensuring there's never a dull moment. He weaves us through a varied blend of drama, suspense and action, infused with some light-hearted moments courtesy of the finely tuned script from Morgan & Wong. The episode also holds a certain significance in that it introduces us to 'The Lone Gunmen'. Arguably three of the most beloved guest characters in the series, their overwhelming popularity with both the fan-base and the writing staff earning them a shot at their own spin-off series later down the line. It's worth mentioning that Mark Snow, who scored all 202 episodes, does a terrific job at building the suspense and heightening the drama throughout this episode. His soundtrack has always played an integral part in constructing the unique tone of the show and this episode is no exception.
'E.B.E' revolves around the crash of an alien space craft, which was shot down over Turkey by an Iraqi fighter pilot and the subsequent extermination of the alien life form on board. In Tennessee, a truck driver experiences an anomalous event when his vehicle grinds to a halt and he witnesses a flash of light, leaving him scared and disoriented. Through the help of Deepthroat's classified information, Mulder learns of the U.F.O crash in Turkey and Scully discovers the truck driver's true identity as a willing participant in the capture of an E.B.E. As the pair relentlessly pursue their various leads it becomes clear that Deepthroat has deceived them with false information in order to prevent the alarming truth reaching the public and causing mass panic. As it turns out, Mulder is being subverted by elaborate hoaxes designed to look like alien abductions in the hope that he will blindly concede to the most obvious conclusion and abandon the search. Aware of the governments intentions to steer him down the wrong path, he enlists the help of The Long Gunmen in order to infiltrate a highly guarded power plant in Washington where he comes painfully close to uncovering the truth behind extra terrestrial life on earth.
There's a lot going in in this episode and in less capable hands this could have resulted in a convoluted mess. Thanks to the talents of both the writers and director however, we're treated to a well paced and coherent development of plot that keeps the tension high throughout. Deepthroat enters the mix once again and unlike the previous episode, Morgan & Wong know how to use the character. This time around his involvement plays an integral role in the advancement of the plot and we learn a little about his motivations behind helping Mulder. We see Mulder signal him with a blue light from his window, a method of communication the two have presumably developed before now. Through his confessions to Mulder we learn that Deepthroat has played a fundamental role in the cover up of aliens throughout his long career. He's now tortured both by the unspeakable things he's done and seen. He's hoping that through providing Mulder with support he may find some type of redemption.
Up until now Mulder's unconventional theories have caused him to appear as an outcast. Even Scully, as supportive as she may be, regularly struggles to concede to Mulder's extreme viewpoints. The Lone Gunmen serve as a group of radical thinkers who's shared ideology falls directly in line with Mulder's off beat approach. It makes perfect sense that he would find friendship in the likes of these three conspiracy theorists. The characters themselves are well written, even at this early stage. Though they receive minimal screen time in this episode we can instantly identify them as three clearly individual yet equally minded characters. John Fitzgerald Byers (Bruce Harwood) presents a clean cut look with his neatly parted hair and suit and a mild mannered approach that directly contrasts Richard Langly's (Dean Haglund) unkempt per-pubescent tech nerd look with his long hair and off-beat sensibility. Melvin Frohike, played by the series Assistant Director Tom Braidwood, is the quick witted sleazy older member who acts like a self appointed leader of the trio. The Lone Gunmen are evidence that the series was able to weave comedy seamlessly between moments of heartfelt drama. The group will be used throughout the series predominantly as comic relief, though they are such well developed and interesting characters in their own right that audiences will grow to care about them over the course of the series as valuable additions to the X-Files family.
If any viewers were still on the fence about the strength of the series overarching conspiracy plot line, 'E.B.E' settles the argument and paves the way for the long road ahead. This entry is a stellar contribution to the mythology's slow burn that proves once again that the X-Files team were capable of producing an unparalleled quality of television that still stands the test of time.
The hoax
chaos-rampant19 May 2013
Now this is a turning point.
Previously, the pair of detectives had all sorts of close encounters with strange phenomena, with sundry evidence establishing proof. This is complicated here. We have the usual conspiracy and cover-up by secret government, but also we have doctored evidence, and even a whole close encounter staged to dupe the pair away from the 'real' thing.
So when in the end we have deep revelations about Roswell, and the alleged UFO at Hanoi, the narrator is unreliable and could be making up any part of what he reveals, and even the whole secret compound can be a hoax set up because it is something we would expect to discover, wanting to believe. It makes little sense why any of this should happen, but that's the series for you.
The notion is that the most convenient place to hide a lie is between truths, a statement which in our case can be both a lie and true.
Other than that, this is the most cinematic and evocative of the episodes so far.
Previously, the pair of detectives had all sorts of close encounters with strange phenomena, with sundry evidence establishing proof. This is complicated here. We have the usual conspiracy and cover-up by secret government, but also we have doctored evidence, and even a whole close encounter staged to dupe the pair away from the 'real' thing.
So when in the end we have deep revelations about Roswell, and the alleged UFO at Hanoi, the narrator is unreliable and could be making up any part of what he reveals, and even the whole secret compound can be a hoax set up because it is something we would expect to discover, wanting to believe. It makes little sense why any of this should happen, but that's the series for you.
The notion is that the most convenient place to hide a lie is between truths, a statement which in our case can be both a lie and true.
Other than that, this is the most cinematic and evocative of the episodes so far.
See also
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