“PHILOSOPHICAL” UPDATE

It’s been awhile since your collaboration with Chris involving a feature film adaptation of the book “A Philosophical Investigation” was announced. What is the current status of its development?
Bob
Madison, Wisconsin

It’s amazing how long things take in the feature business. Finalizing the deal after the project was announced took several months, but I’m happy to report Chris and I are now well into writing the script. Beyond that, I’m afraid I don’t have any idea (yet) when the film will go into production, let alone be released.

DREAMING OF WRITING

My biggest dream ever was to be a part of the “X-Files” writers team. Unfortunately, I’m Brazilian, plus I’ve never written anything famous, plus the show is over (on TV). But I still have this dream to become a screenwriter. I don’t know how to begin to follow this dream. Please tell me how you started out in show business and how you developed your talent as a writer.
Lucas
Brazil

Being Brazilian and never having written anything famous shouldn't discourage you, although I suppose the fact the show is off the air does make the chances of writing "The X-Files" somewhat remote. But if you still want to pursue your dream -- which always seems to me a good thing for people to do -- my advice is simple: write. The only way to learn to write is by doing it. It helps if you can find a group of other aspiring writers. Reading the work of others, and having them read yours, is an excellent way to begin to get a sense of who you are as a writer. I can almost absolutely guarantee you will not be any good in the beginning – almost no one is, so you shouldn’t let that discourage you. Learning to write is a process that never ends. Even if you are fortunate enough to become a professional screenwriter, you will continue to learn new things about the craft – and yourself. That’s one reason writing can be such a frustrating career. No one ever truly masters it. But that’s what makes it endlessly rewarding, too.

X-FILES 2 (CONT’D)

I’m sure you're probably tired of being asked about “X-Files 2,” but I’m such a big fan of the show and the first movie that I just had to ask about it. I know that negotiations have been going on for quite some time, and a lot of buzz was going around about the movie, but it’s been a long time since we have heard anything. Is the project still in negotiations? Any news from you would be a wonderful gift for all the fans.
Leslee
Bishop, Texas

Yes, negotiations are still continuing. I promise to post news of a deal here as soon as it closes (assuming it ever does!). Thanks for your support – and patience.