Common Sense Media Review
By Sierra Filucci
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Brilliant sci-fi drama for brave teens and up.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The X-Files
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 12 parent reviews
Parents say the series is a cult classic with mixed reviews; while many appreciate the intriguing storylines and strong character dynamics between Mulder and Scully, others find it dreary with a convoluted narrative. The show seems suitable for older children and pre-teens due to its mild violence and occasional scary themes, but some episodes contain material that may be inappropriate for younger viewers.
- character dynamics
- mixed reviews
- suitable for older kids
- mild violence
- intriguing storylines
- occasional scary themes
Summarized with AI
Based on 69 kid reviews
Kids say the show is an enthralling blend of sci-fi and horror, drawing in fans with its captivating characters, especially the dynamic duo of Mulder and Scully. However, many warn that due to its mature themes including violence, disturbing imagery, and occasional sexual content, it's best suited for older teens, with some parents advising parental guidance for viewers below 12 years of age.
- mature themes
- strong characters
- parental guidance
- intense content
- sci-fi horror
- family bonding
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
THE X-FILES features Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) and Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson) as FBI agents charged with investigating cases that involve the paranormal. Along with dark, often-scary episodes about specific creatures or unexplained events, the show revolves around a mythology of government conspiracies and cover-ups related to extraterrestrials. Mulder is deeply suspicious of the government and believes fervently in the existence of extraterrestrials, due to the fact that he remembers his sister being abducted by aliens when he was a child. Scully, a trained medical doctor, starts out as a skeptic assigned to the X-Files to debunk Mulder's unpopular theories, but she eventually comes to believe in the paranormal.
Is It Any Good?
Both creepy and intriguing, this series was hugely popular during its nine-year run on Fox in the 1990s and early 2000s (at the time of review it airs in syndication and is available on DVD). Teens who like sci-fi or horror will enjoy The X-Files for its complexity and rich character development. Parents may want to preview episodes for appropriateness for younger or more sensitive teens, since some shows are scarier than others. Viewers jumping into the middle of a season may be confused by the episodes dealing with detailed backstories.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Mulder and Scully's partnership on The X-Files. Why do they make such a good team? What does each bring to their relationship?
Families can also discuss their beliefs about aliens. Is there life on other planets? If so, what form do you think it might take? Have humans already had contact with alien beings? Are aliens to be feared or sought out? What types of paranormal or spiritual situations do your family members believe in (such as ESP, psychics, or faith healing)?
How do the characters on The X-Files demonstrate curiosity, communication, and teamwork? Why are these important character strengths?
TV Details
- Premiere date : September 10, 1993
- Cast : David Duchovny , Gillian Anderson
- Networks : Syfy , TNT
- Genre : Science Fiction
- Character Strengths : Communication , Curiosity , Teamwork
- TV rating :
- Last updated : March 5, 2026
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