The Post-Modern Prometheus

The Post-Modern Prometheus
"The Post-Modern Prometheus" is the fifth episode of the fifth season of the American science fiction television series The X-Files, originally airing on the Fox network on November 30, 1997. It was written and directed by series creator Chris Carter. The story follows FBI agents Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) and Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson) as they investigate a creature called "The Great Mutato" that has impregnated a middle-aged woman; it turns out to be the genetic creation of a Frankenstein-like doctor. The creature is first ostracized and then accepted by his community. Carter's story draws heavily on Mary Shelley's Frankenstein (subtitled The Modern Prometheus) and particularly on James Whale's 1931 film version of the story. The episode was filmed in black and white, with a sky backdrop imitating the style of old Frankenstein films. Talk-show host Jerry Springer appeared as himself, and Chris Owens played The Great Mutato. Many critics praised the episode; some even called it a "classic". It was nominated for seven awards at the 1998 Emmys, winning one.