The X-Files Australian Conne-X-ion News Stand

The truth is out there -- again.

"X-Files" creator Chris Carter is in negotiations with 20th Century Fox to develop a second feature based on his long-running hit TV series. As with the 1998 film, Carter would write and produce with Frank Spotnitz.

No cast deals been set. However, the project is being developed as a stand-alone vehicle for agents Mulder and Scully, and thus, original series stars David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson. Both have indicated a willingness to return for the new picture.

Duchovny is no longer with the Fox series; Anderson has long expressed her desire to leave the Fox show following the end of the show's ninth season, which begins Sunday. As a result, the plot of the picture will likely not be steeped in the elaborate "X" mythology but instead serve as a stand-alone feature.

Carter and Spotnitz are expected to begin writing the screenplay within the next few months. Pending the hiring of a director (Rob Bowman directed the original) and a greenlight, the picture could begin shooting by late 2002. It's expected the earliest the film could be released is Christmas 2003.

The first feature grossed $84 million domestically and also performed well in home video. Overall, figuring in licensing and syndication revenue, the "X-Files" franchise has made nearly $1 billion for Fox's News Corp. parent since the show launched in fall 1993.

"The X-Files" remains Fox's top-rated drama and the No. 2 drama on TV among the key demo target of adults 18-49.

By Josef Adalian