D.P.O. ('MOW'): All That is Old Is New Again

As I mentioned in the last essay, going from such an important 'mythology' episode ('Paper Clip') to a 'MOW' can be a bit jarring. . .but somehow Chris Carter and company find a way to make the transition seemless and to add a classic to the library to boot. 'D.P.O.' is one of those 'MOW' episodes that stands the test of time and doesn't seem to age (besides the whole arcade bit. . .god I miss those). Plus, like the greatest monsters (aka Tooms, and such), Darin Peter Oswald has a cool power (he controls lightning or, rather IS lightning, as Mulder suggests).



It also helps that 'D.P.O.' stars current movie stars back in their before-they-were-famous days. Jack Black, surprisingly, gives a subtle but effective performance as Darin's friend. And, of course, Darin himself is played by oddball actor Giovanni Ribisi (has the dude ever played a straight role?). Ribisi gives one of those performances where you can tell he's a cut above other standard television actors. Other guest stars have been great on The X-Files, but Ribisi made the role, which doesn't have a lot of depth, his own.

Besides Ribisi, the film succeeds for having a great sense of style. A lot of songs are used in the episode (as oppossed to score) and Darin has a unique sense of pseudo-punk, half-redneck style that makes him memorable when the 'Best Of' lists are made. Also, the filming style is excellent. If I didn't know Bowman directed the previous episode, I'd have thought it was him, since it is so 'cool' and cinematic. Then I discovered it was Directing-Ace #2: Kim Manners who is second only to Bowman. 'D.P.O.' is just a nifty episode to view. . .even if you aren't taken with the story.



There is also a moment in 'D.P.O.' that was lacking in a lot of 'MOW' episodes in seasons 1 and 2. . .comfort. I finally feel like Duchovny has found Mulder (his quip about Women of the Ivy League is a blast). The character has had a lot of ups and downs in seasons 1 and 2. . .three is kind of the birth of the Mulder we'd know for the rest of the run. Whether this has anything to do with Duchovny's acting ability/confidence or better writing I'm not sure. Whatever it is. . .Mulder becomes a classic character from this point forward.

If 'Paper Clip' brought back the awe and wonder then 'D.P.O.' delivers the cool. I'd rewatch if you had your doubts. . .this is a true classic.