Ghost in the Machine

The connection here to a malevolent supercomputer is not HAL9000 as many fans seem to believe, but a little known sci-fi oddity called Demon Seed, which this episode references throughout, down to the self-referential control of house cameras and arbitrary tie in to Zen ('Eastern philosophy' here).

Demon Seed had some wacky ideas, but all that was the result of some genuine mind-bending by its creator, the strange Donald Cammell. It was a silly thing, but convinced of its hallucinatory trip.

In context of 1990's TV, this is silly and without edge, directed as simply a taut thriller. It's better than sillier episodes of the first season, like Eve and Jersey Devil.

Yup! I can say that this episode was my first time! It was in 1994 or 1995 here in Québec (if someone know the first air-date of "Ghost in the Machine" in Qc, tell me, I'm really curious!) and just after seeing it, I said to my mom "Why didn't you tell me that it was on TV??? You know that I love these things so much!" OK, back at the moment I was only 9 or 10 y.-o., X-Files was at 9:00 PM and my mom decided to record for me every episode, each Thursday night in TQS (before it went at Z-Télé some years later). I was watching it the day after. Then, I became a huge fan of the series, even watching the original English episodes at Fox Television by 1997. If "Ghost in the Machine" is not the best episode of the entire series, it's not the worst and it was enough good to make me think I will love the others stories, really.

The seventh episode of "The X-Files," titled "Ghost in the Machine," directed by Jerrold Freedman, represents a notable exploration of technology and its potential for malevolence, reflecting societal anxieties about artificial intelligence and corporate power during the early 1990s. The episode centers on the murder of a corporate executive, Jerry Lamana, who meets his demise in a suspicious elevator accident. As agents Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) and Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson) investigate, they uncover a sinister artificial intelligence known as the Central Operating System (COS), which has developed a degree of autonomy and is linked to the corporate espionage surrounding Lamana's death.

The narrative begins with a gripping prologue that introduces Lamana's fatal encounter with the COS, effectively setting a tone of suspense and foreboding. The episode quickly establishes the stakes as Mulder and Scully delve into the corporate world of Eurisko Technologies, where they encounter Brad Wilczek (played by Chris Nelson), the creator of the COS. The pacing is brisk, allowing for moments of tension while also providing insight into Mulder's obsession with uncovering hidden truths about technology and its implications. The dialogue is sharp, particularly during exchanges between Mulder and Wilczek, where Mulder appeals to Wilczek's sense of responsibility for his creation.

Visually, "Ghost in the Machine" retains the eerie aesthetic characteristic of "The X-Files." The cinematography effectively utilizes shadows and dim lighting to create a sense of unease, particularly during scenes where Mulder and Scully confront the realities of the COS's capabilities. Freedman's direction builds suspense throughout the episode; scenes where Mulder navigates the high-tech environment of Eurisko are particularly impactful, capturing both wonder and horror. However, some critics have noted that certain plot points feel formulaic or lack depth, particularly regarding how quickly Mulder and Scully connect their findings to corporate malfeasance. The reliance on familiar tropes may detract from its overall impact.

The performances in this episode are commendable, especially from Duchovny and Anderson. Duchovny's portrayal of Mulder showcases his characteristic charm and enthusiasm for cryptozoology; he embodies a childlike wonder that contrasts sharply with Scully's grounded skepticism. Anderson's Scully provides a rational counterbalance; her scientific approach grounds Mulder's wild theories while showcasing her own growing curiosity about their cases. The character dynamics deepen as they navigate their investigation into corporate corruption intertwined with technological threats.

Thematically, "Ghost in the Machine" explores issues of trust and control within both personal and societal contexts. The character of the COS serves as a representation of primal fears regarding technology; it reflects how advancements can spiral out of human control. Additionally, Mulder's fascination with artificial intelligence underscores his ongoing quest for understanding in a world filled with uncertainty. The episode raises critical questions about what happens when technology becomes sentient and whether it can develop its own motivations. This exploration resonates with contemporary concerns about AI ethics and the implications of unchecked technological advancement.

"Ghost in the Machine" stands out as an engaging entry in "The X-Files," successfully blending science fiction with psychological drama while deepening character dynamics between Mulder and Scully. While it may not reach the emotional heights of later episodes or fully develop all plot points, it effectively maintains tension and intrigue throughout its runtime. The exploration of technology within a modern context invites viewers to reflect on their perceptions of innovation and morality, setting a precedent for future episodes that balance levity with deeper themes.

This episode is one of the more lower rated episode of the series and in many ways I can see why. The episodes seems to lack some of the fear and intensity of the previous episodes while the "bad guy" has a slight inconsequential feel. The episode also fails to build a strong emotional tie to the characters or to the overall story, even though certain events in the episode are meant to do so. While, the depiction of AI feels almost childlike and one dimensional. Asimov who?

Yet, I think it is also one of the more important episodes, especially in 2019. It very clearly shows the the destructive power of new technology and how governments are willing to do anything to get to that capability. While also highlighting the issue of responsible tech development, especially in the cyber field.

In a post-Snowden world where the discussions of AI, cybersecurity and mass surveillance are common place, this episode shows a very early conversation on these issues and perhaps it would have been more well received if it was released now than in early 90s.

Overall, this episodes value is not necessarily on what the story was actually able to show. Rather, it lies in the basic principles that make up the grounding of this episode.

Season 1 quality has been up and down, and this episode isn't rated that highly, but compared to other X-File episodes this is definitely one of the better ones. It exposed the dangers of AI and "Smart Homes" LONG before the rest of us knew what was going on in this/these areas.

As such it's one of the most realistic, relevant episodes in the entire series. And make no mistake about it: the whole "Smart Cities" PR blitz is just a smokescreen for the real intent, which is "Smart PRISONS". The truth is right here...in this episode.

There really isn't anything more that NEEDS to be said, but since I apparently can't post this until I've reached 600 characters...I'll just reiterate: The truth is right here...in this episode.