 The film began as a spec script written by Reddick for an episode of The X @-@ Files , in order for Reddick to get a TV agent , however , he never submitted it to The X @-@ Files after a colleague at New Line Cinema persuaded him to write it as a feature @-@ length film . Later , Wong and Morgan , The X @-@ Files writing partners , became interested in the script and agreed to rewrite and direct the film , marking Wong 's film directing debut . Filming took place in New York and Vancouver , with additional scenes filmed in Toronto and San Francisco . It was released on March 17 , 2000 , and became a financial success , making $ 10 million on its opening weekend . The DVD release of the film , released on September 26 , 2000 , in the United States and Canada , includes commentaries , deleted scenes , and documentaries . 
