by Cindy Pearlman

When The X-Files episode "The Beginning" airs November 8, long-time fans will notice that the show's look has changed. Gray, cloud-choked skies are out. Sunshine and palm trees are in. "The Beginning" doesn't just mark the opening of the show's sixth season, it's the first episode to be shot in Los Angeles. It has been reported widely that the move from gloomy Vancouver, British Columbia, was prompted by demands from series star David Duchovny. Cinescape contributor Cindy Pearlman recently had a chance to ask Duchovny about those reports.

Cinescape: It's been said you demanded the move to L.A. Is that accurate?

Duchovny: I don't have any need to show my power. I just have a need to do what works for me in my life. I thought we were just shooting a pilot in Vancouver [all those] years ago....Every year, it was, "Oh, we'll come back to L.A." It became time for me to put my foot down and say, "Now I have a wife and it's not my problem the show will be harder to shoot in L.A. or look different or be more expensive. That's your problem."

Cinescape: So how will the show be different now?

Duchovny: One change is that high-ranking officials in the American government will no longer have Canadian accents.

Cinescape: Will all the sunshine and fresh air help Mulder cheer up?

Duchovny: No, that's not for him. That's for other people. He's a questing hero. I don't think if I was a fan that I would want to see Mulder happy. I would want to see Mulder actively pursuing something. That's what he does.