Where to start

The X-Files

2 versions · originally a series, 1993

Themes: Government Conspiracy, Skepticism vs. Belief, The Unexplained, Alien Abduction, Trust No One.

The X-Files is a definitive procedural saga centered on the friction between Mulder’s paranormal belief and Scully’s scientific skepticism.

✦ Most fans start here

The X-Files (1993)

The X-Files

The original tv

✦ Start here

The X-Files

Chris Carter · Series · 1993

The X-Files (1993) serves as the foundational television series that establishes the iconic partnership between Mulder and Scully, offering episodic investigations perfect for viewers who enjoy slow-burn paranormal mystery storytelling.

The X-Files

1998 film

The X-Files

Rob Bowman · Film · 1998

The X-Files (1998) movie functions as a high-stakes cinematic expansion of the television series, providing a bridge for those who want to see the agents confront a global government conspiracy.

Common questions

What order should I watch The X-Files in?

You should begin by watching the television series The X-Files, which debuted in 1993. The 1998 movie titled The X-Files was released later and serves as a continuation of the narrative established within the primary television series.

Is The X-Files movie a reboot of the series?

No, the 1998 movie titled The X-Files is not a reboot. It is a feature-length production that follows the events of the 1993 television series The X-Files, maintaining the established continuity of the show's original story and characters.

How long is the original run of The X-Files?

The television series The X-Files premiered in 1993. It consists of multiple seasons of broadcast television. Following the start of the show, a feature film titled The X-Files was released in 1998 to expand upon the material presented in the television series.

Should I watch The X-Files movie before finishing the show?

The 1998 movie titled The X-Files is designed to be viewed in conjunction with the 1993 television series The X-Files. It is recommended to watch the series first to understand the context and the development of the story before viewing the 1998 film.

Want picks tuned to your taste across every medium?

Try Tangent

Free, 30 seconds, no account.