It was called “The Untitled X-Files Sequel.” Then it was simply “The X-Files 2.” And finally just a few days ago, the heavily-anticipated return of one of sci-fi’s biggest franchises received its final title…”The X-Files: I Want To Believe,” taken from the now-famous motto emblazoned across the famous poster in Agent Fox Mulder’s office.
But anyone thinking the name doesn’t have a deeper meaning is as misguided as the Cigarette Smoking Man.
“The title makes sense because [the poster] was really emblematic of Mulder’s faith, and the struggle for his faith,” stated series creator Chris Carter during an exclusive interview with MTV News at NY Comic-Con. “He doesn’t believe…he wants to believe. So I think that is essentially the story we’re telling. It’s the story we’ve always told but in this case I think we really bring it into high focus.”
And speaking of that story, much like the show’s conspiratorial tone, a torrent of rumors have circulated around the closely-guarded plot since the beginning. Just recently, a leaked photo showing Mulder and Scully standing in front of a church seemed to confirm the proposed theory that religion will play a major factor. But according to Carter, fans shouldn’t be so literal.
“It’s really Mulder’s faith in the paranormal that is the faith that he’s wrestling with,” the co-writer/director said. “So while you can see a church in a photograph, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s about religion.”
And likewise, according to fellow “X-Files 2” screenwriter Frank Spotnitz, audiences should beware of idle speculation online. “They shouldn’t believe anything because they’re going to feel burned or disappointed inevitably that day,” he argued. “So that’s really been our stance all along because there’s so much misinformation on the Internet. And people saying they have credible sources or call-sheets that are of dubious authenticity. The best thing is to view everything skeptically and wait for the movie.”
Stay tuned for much more from our chat with Carter and Spotnitz, including video. “The X-Files: I Want To Believe” hits theaters on July 25, 2008.
Are you psyched for the return of “The X-Files”? Chime in below!
April 19th, 2008 at 1:01 am
I am very psyched about this movie. The fans have waited a long time for it to happen and from everything I’ve heard and read, it will be worth the wait. Can’t wait to see Mulder and Scully back together again.
April 19th, 2008 at 1:46 am
This movie is going to be one to remember.
remember that.
April 19th, 2008 at 2:16 am
can. not. wait.
April 19th, 2008 at 2:20 am
Can’t wait to see it.
April 19th, 2008 at 3:04 am
I have a feeling this film is gonna be a lot bigger than anyone thinks.
April 19th, 2008 at 12:47 pm
cant wait! i am so excited:) the x files is one of my favorite shows of all time.
April 19th, 2008 at 2:22 pm
We’ve waited so long….and now finally the movies will be worth going to this summer…The X Files is without a doubt my favorite show of all time, and I think this movie is gonna be huge…Can’t Wait to Believe Again!
April 19th, 2008 at 3:55 pm
Cant wait for this movie.I loved X files when i was young. Those were the good old days.
April 19th, 2008 at 8:35 pm
I am gonna see this movie like ten times in theatres!!! I can NOT wait!
April 20th, 2008 at 11:21 pm
When the series ended, I was bummed, man. It was as if I’d lost a best friend. And I’d always hoped they’d do a reprise. Lo, and behold, in 2 months we’ll all be soaking up the return of what was THE best show on TV during the 90’s.
I still harbor hopes that they bring back the series. Who knows, if the sales are good, they may do just that.
May 1st, 2008 at 4:07 am
SO excited!!!! anyone know what movie the trailer is premiering on?? people said it would play with Iron Man but i heard this is not true!
May 27th, 2008 at 3:16 pm
I hope Chris’s fantasy is at least as vivid as mine, really, I have my doubts whether it is possible to make all watchers feel at least satisfied. I often do read such comments to the newest movie and all the people simply can’t wait, yet I am not the case. It gives me a thrill, the idea of what he will do again to these sublime characters of Mulder and Scully, but I know, I will have to watch. Hopefully, they will survive and it would be nice if they finally got married, but I know that Carter doesn’t hold much for romantic feelings… What a pity. So the love of Mulder and Scully stays still second to Serena and Endymion, only. Will Carter be able to master it?