'kay, I just watched Redux 2 for the first time and I need to get something off my chest.
I keep thinking about that scene at the beginning where Mulder finally makes it into Scully's room and there's all that tender co-worker hair touching and platonic hand cuddling, etc. The stress has them pretty stripped down - Mulder is in all the purity of his "Scully is my quest" mode and literally all Scully wants is to save Mulder, with the last ounce of strength in her little body.
But aside from all TXF feels, I'm really impressed by how well Gillian (not even 30 yet?) acted this scene. Like, most people acting sick/dying put way too much energy into their being weak, if you know what I mean? But Gillian totally nails this paradox of projecting absolutely no energy, but simultaneously putting out this massive intensity of spirit. It's the saddest pleasure to watch.
This is so TRUE and such a GREAT way to put it. I know exactly what you mean. Scully is dying, and Gillian definitely projects that, her physical weakness and her increasing hopelessness and despair and sadness, but the INTENSITY that she has is if anything honed to a harder, finer point than ever before. Her big sad EYES while she’s telling Mulder that he HAS to put the blame on her. She’s breathtaking in that scene.
And you’re right, she would have been 29 (or not quite, depending on when filming started). Goddamn, our girl can act.
Really enjoyed your take on this scene, anon! Are you watching the whole series for the first time?
