The X-Files took a unique turn with its holiday-themed episode titled Christmas Carol, which aired 28 years ago as part of the show’s fifth season. This episode stands out not only for its Christmas setting but also for its significant developments in character arcs and its contribution to the show’s overarching narrative.
In Christmas Carol, viewers find Dana Scully, portrayed by Gillian Anderson, and her mother visiting her brother, Bill Scully Jr., and his pregnant wife, Tara Scully, for Christmas. What begins as a typical family gathering quickly shifts when Scully receives an unexpected phone call from a voice that eerily resembles her deceased sister, Melissa Scully. This leads Dana to abandon her family plans to investigate the mysterious call, which connects to a woman who has recently taken her own life.
The narrative deepens as Scully discovers that the woman left behind a husband and a young daughter named Emily, who bears a striking resemblance to her sister. This revelation propels Scully into a personal investigation, further complicated by her own struggles with infertility stemming from an abduction detailed in Season 2. The intertwining of her quest for the truth regarding Emily and her own painful history creates an emotional depth that resonates throughout the episode.
As the plot unfolds, Scully orders an autopsy for the deceased woman, leading her to suspect that the suicide was staged. The subsequent arrest of the husband only intensifies her obsession with uncovering the truth. DNA results reveal a shocking connection: Emily is not just a look-alike but, in fact, Scully’s biological child. This climax not only alters Scully’s life but also introduces a dramatic cliffhanger, culminating in a rare ‘To Be Continued’ card that set the stage for the next episode.
David Duchovny does not appear in this episode, leaving Anderson to carry the narrative almost entirely on her own. This absence highlights the emotional weight of Scully’s story, allowing viewers to focus solely on her internal struggles and revelations. The Christmas backdrop, while serving as an atmospheric setting, also plays a crucial role in the themes of birth and familial connections explored throughout the episode.
The sequel, titled Emily, premiered the following week, continuing the exploration of these profound themes. While Christmas Carol is not a traditional Christmas episode in the sense of festive cheer, it effectively utilizes the holiday setting to enhance its storytelling. The Scully family is depicted partaking in Christmas gatherings, surrounded by decorations and holiday cheer, which serves to contrast the darker elements of the plot.
The decision to set the episode during the holiday season was not merely for decoration. The production team recognized the potential for emotional resonance with audiences during this time of year. The miraculous birth theme aligns perfectly with the Christmas spirit, making the narrative even more impactful. Flashbacks to Scully’s childhood augment the storyline, providing context for her relationship with her siblings and her deep-seated desire for connection.
In summary, The X-Files episode Christmas Carol not only navigates the complexities of family and loss but also marks a significant moment in the series by intertwining personal narratives with the holiday theme. The combination of Scully’s investigation and the revelations surrounding Emily create a compelling viewing experience that enriches the show’s mythology and resonates deeply with its audience.
