"Dogma", the next movie from "Chasing Amy" writer-director Kevin Smith, will be shot on a closed set when it begins production in Pittsburgh at the end of March. That means visitors, including news media, will not be allowed to observe filming or conduct interviews with cast and crew.

The decision was made for several reasons, according to a spokeswoman for Miamax Films, which will distribute the movie. "Dogma" will be Smith's first movie to contain significant special effects, and Miramax doesn't want to give away too much about what the film will look lile.

Also, Smith has proven to be very accomodating to fans and media and closing access to the set apparently will help keep him from being distracted by outside requests for his time.

"Dogma" will be Smith's fourth film, following "Clerks", "Mallrats", and "Chasing Amy". The cast includes Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Linda Fiorentino, Salma Hayek, Chris Rock, Alan Rickman, Jason Lee, and Jason Mewes.

Emma Thompson, originally slated to play God in the film, has dropped out of the production. The role has not been recast. In addition, Miramax could not confirm reports that George Carlin has been signed to appear in the movie (We can. -B&C).

The movie is about a woman (Fiorentino) who joins the 13th apostle (Rock) in trying to prevent two angels cast out of heaven (Damon & Affleck) from returning -- an event that could bring about the end of the world.