8 questions with a Web comedian
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| Submitted Photo/ Chris Files |
Files, 25, is a marketing manager at the St. Louis Science Center. He and his wife, Aimee, live in St. Charles.
Q: How did you get your nickname?A: The "Sultan of Satire" was a nickname in a comedy writing trio I was part of at the University of Florida. One guy went on to work for the show "Miami Ink," and the other works behind the scenes in sports radio. We hope to tearfully reunite one day.
Q: What inspired you to start the site?
A: I've always loved satire and I tend to idolize people like Jon Stewart and David Javerbaum, executive producer of "The Daily Show." Combine that unhealthy obsession with my news writing and broadcasting background and you have TheFilesFiles.com
Q: How would you describe the site?
A: It's a site the world's smartest people visit for original stories and videos that give a humorous slant to topical issues. When writing a story or making a video, I make a very conscious effort not to let the truth cloud my head.
Q: Where do you get your stories or ideas?
A: I'll be the first to admit I'm a news junkie. When I watch CNN or any of the networks I'm watching the stories thinking of ways to spin them into something funny---staying informed is just a convenient side effect. I have a somewhat backwards philosophyÂ…I believe to truly enjoy life one must poke fun of it.
Q: How did the Web site get its name?
A: I was working as a reporter at a TV station in Florida and the anchor introduced one of my stories by saying "This one's from the files of our very own Chris Files." I liked it and that evolved -- or devolved -- into the site's name.
Q: What is your favorite place to visit in St. Louis and why?
A: Aside from the obvious choice of the Science Center, I like the Delmar Loop. Creativity pours out of that area in everything from the architecture to the food to the music scene.
Q: What is the one place you have heard so much about and always wanted to go in St. Louis, but have never had a chance yet?
A: Gus' Pretzels. Any place that makes a meal out of salted bread is good in my book.
Q: What is probably one thing most people don't know about the Science Center, but would find fascinating to know?
A: The OMNIMAX Theater is four stories tall and takes people with special suction cup climbing equipment to clean it. That, plus the walls are made of marshmallow.
