Ep 18. Miracle Man

The X-Files season 1, episode 18, titled "Miracle Man," follows agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully as they investigate a case involving a young boy named Samuel who has the ability to heal people with his touch. The episode begins with a church tent revival where Samuel's father is presenting his son's healing powers to a large crowd of people. Mulder and Scully are called in after a young girl dies following what was believed to be a successful healing by Samuel.

As Mulder and Scully begin their investigation, they soon become aware that the boy's powers are not as miraculous as they seem. Mulder, being fascinated by the possibility of supernatural abilities, becomes more involved with the case than normal. Scully, on the other hand, tries to remain skeptical and uncover the truth behind Samuel's remarkable ability.

They soon realize that Samuel's powers are not supernatural but rather caused by a combination of his faith, the placebo effect, and his father's manipulation. Through their investigation, they discover that Samuel's father, a former con man turned preacher, has been exploiting his son's ability to heal people for his own financial gain.

Mulder and Scully's investigation leads them to a confrontation with Samuel's father and a dramatic event that forces Mulder to confront his own beliefs and the existence of the paranormal.

Overall, "Miracle Man" is a thought-provoking episode that delves into the themes of faith, manipulation, and the human desire for a higher power. The episode also highlights the differences between Mulder and Scully's investigative styles and beliefs, which would become a recurring theme throughout the series.