Pusher (The X-Files)

Pusher is the seventeenth episode of the third season of the American science fiction television series The X-Files. It premiered on the Fox network on February 23, 1996. The episode was written by Vince Gilligan and directed by Rob Bowman. "Pusher" is a "monster-of-the-week" story, unconnected to the series' wider mythology.

Plot

The episode follows FBI agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully as they investigate a series of deaths that appear to be suicides but are actually the result of mind control exerted by a man named Robert Patrick Modell, also known as "Pusher." Modell has the ability to force his will onto others, compelling them to act against their own interests, often leading to their deaths.

The investigation begins when Modell is arrested after a high-speed chase. During his interrogation, he demonstrates his abilities by compelling an officer to shoot himself. Mulder and Scully soon realize that Modell is using his powers to challenge Mulder, whom he sees as a worthy adversary. The climax of the episode features a tense standoff between Mulder and Modell, culminating in a game of Russian roulette.

Characters

• Fox Mulder (David Duchovny)
• Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson)
• Robert Patrick Modell (Robert Wisden)
• Walter Skinner (Mitch Pileggi)

Production

"Pusher" was written by Vince Gilligan, who would later become a key writer and producer for the series. The episode was directed by Rob Bowman, known for his work on several other episodes of The X-Files. The character of Robert Patrick Modell was portrayed by Robert Wisden, whose performance was widely praised.

Reception

"Pusher" is considered one of the standout episodes of the third season of The X-Files. It received positive reviews from critics and fans alike, particularly for its suspenseful plot and the performance of Robert Wisden as Modell. The episode is often cited as one of the best examples of the series' ability to blend psychological horror with science fiction.

Legacy

The character of Robert Patrick Modell would later return in the fifth season episode "Kitsunegari." "Pusher" remains a fan favorite and is frequently included in lists of the best episodes of The X-Files.

See also

• List of The X-Files episodes
• The X-Files (season 3)
• Mythology of The X-Files