Look — back in 2008, I was as disappointed as any other fan that this second “The X-Files” feature film was unconnected withe the show’s overarching storyline about aliens.  But … this actually was a really decent standalone horror-mystery tale.

It just happens to be well executed.  (The trailer below doesn’t do it justice; it’s a methodically paced, atmospheric and character-driven thriller.)  Chris Carter’s directing is in fine form; the opening sequence, where a kidnapping is juxtaposed with the subsequent arrival at a key piece of evidence is especially good.  So too were the performances of David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson.  (It seems like the older I get, the more I appreciate Anderson’s talent.)

Finally, Amanda Peet’s portrayal of FBI Agent Monica Bannan was excellent;  she seemed like a nuanced, interesting character that would have been a terrific regular on the show.