of the sentient black oil in this episode has also been met with positive criticism. The oil has been described as "the most original and frightening creation of The X-Files mythology", as "one of the best parts of the show" and has been listed as number two on Den of Geek's "Top 10 X-Files Baddies" countdown, where it was described as "a central part" of the series' mythology. Gillian Anderson considered the episode an emotionally difficult one, saying "Piper Maru was challenging. There was something about it – having to pull from the past ... how it brought the present and the past together. It was just good to play." Director Kim Manners complimented Anderson's performance, stating "you look at season one and look at season three and that girl exploded as an actress in terms of talent and capability." The 2004 film Alien vs. Predator featured an icebreaker named the Piper Maru, the naming of the ship being a nod to this episode. Footnotes Bibliography External links "Piper Maru" on The X-Files official website 1996 American television episodes Television episodes written by Chris Carter Television episodes set in California Fictional works set in the Pacific Ocean The X-Files (season 3) episodes Television episodes set in Hong Kong