Podcast The X-Files 1994 Season 2 | Episode 6 Ascension | Breakdown #podcast

"Welcome back, X-Philes and curious minds, to another episode of Justz Natz Podcast! I’m your host, Justz Natz, and today we’re diving into the sixth episode of The X-Files Season 2, titled Ascension. This episode is a heart-pounding continuation of the Duane Barry storyline, with Scully’s abduction, Mulder’s desperate search, and a shocking twist that changes everything. So grab your FBI badges, keep an eye on the skies, and let’s unravel this intense mystery together!"

[SEGMENT 1: Episode Recap]

Host:
"Alright, let’s set the scene. The episode picks up right where Duane Barry left off, with Mulder listening to Scully’s frantic voicemail as she’s kidnapped by Barry. Mulder rushes to her apartment, where he meets Scully’s mother, Margaret, who reveals she had a dream about her daughter being taken away.

The next morning, Assistant Director Walter Skinner tells Mulder he’s ‘too close’ to the case and assigns Alex Krycek to escort him home. Meanwhile, Barry is speeding down the Blue Ridge Parkway with Scully locked in the trunk. When a highway patrol officer pulls him over, Scully tries to get his attention, but Barry kills the officer.

Mulder reviews footage of the traffic stop and sees that Scully is still alive. He deduces that Barry is heading to Skyland Mountain, the site of his original abduction, where he plans to offer Scully to the aliens in his place.

Krycek informs the Smoking Man of Mulder’s findings before joining him on the mission. At Skyland Mountain, Mulder boards an aerial tramway to reach the peak, but Krycek sabotages the tram, trying to delay him. Mulder survives the sabotage and witnesses a strange light in the sky.

When Mulder finds Barry’s car, Scully is gone, and all that remains is her necklace. Barry, now ecstatic, claims that Scully was taken by ‘them.’ Mulder interrogates Barry but nearly strangles him in a fit of rage.

Barry later dies in convulsions, and Mulder discovers Krycek’s betrayal when he finds cigarette butts from the Smoking Man in Krycek’s car. Mulder accuses Krycek of impeding the investigation and killing Barry, but Krycek disappears before Skinner can confront him.

In the end, Skinner reopens the X-Files, and Mulder meets with Margaret, who gives him Scully’s necklace, asking him to return it to her when he finds her. Mulder returns to Skyland Mountain, looking up at the stars, mourning Scully’s absence but holding onto hope that she’s still alive."

[SEGMENT 2: Key Themes and Analysis]

Host:
"Now, let’s talk about the themes in this episode. Ascension is all about desperation and loss. Mulder’s frantic search for Scully highlights the depth of their partnership and his fear of losing her.

This episode also delves into the theme of betrayal. Krycek’s actions reveal his true allegiance, and the Smoking Man’s manipulation adds another layer of intrigue to the conspiracy.

And let’s not forget the supernatural vs. science dynamic. The strange light and Barry’s claims about the aliens leave us questioning whether Scully’s abduction was extraterrestrial, military, or both."

[SEGMENT 3: Standout Moments and Easter Eggs]

Host:
"Alright, let’s highlight some standout moments. First, the opening scene with Scully’s voicemail is chilling and sets the tone for the episode. It’s a stark reminder of the danger she’s in.

Then there’s the aerial tramway sequence. Mulder’s determination to reach the peak, despite Krycek’s sabotage, is a nail-biting moment that showcases his resilience.

Another standout moment is Mulder’s confrontation with Barry. His near-strangulation of Barry is a raw, emotional scene that reveals the depth of his anger and fear.

And of course, the final scene with Mulder looking up at the stars. It’s a poignant moment that leaves us wondering what happened to Scully and whether Mulder will ever find her."