It’s been 16 years since Will Smith appeared in cinemas across the world as Dr. Robert Neville.
Now the sci-fi modern classic I Am Legend is back, and ready to enjoy on Netflix. The Will Smith vehicle has some quirks and flaws (more on those below) but the opening hour is unimpeachable.
Released on St Stephen’s Day 2007, I Am Legend tells the post-apocalyptic tale of US Army Virologist Dr. Robert Neville.
Dr. Neville must race against time and hostile nocturnal mutants as looks to find a cure for a deadly virus that has wiped out most of mankind.
I Am Legend is perhaps most notable for its striking visuals of an abandoned New York City. Manhattan is not as we know it, but an abandoned wasteland riddled with driverless cars, tall grass, and wild animals.
Will Smith‘s character and his dog Samantha walk these streets alone at day, but must take shelter to survive the mutant ‘Darkseekers’ at night.
“The last man on earth is not alone”
Will Smith puts in an impressive performance in this adaptation of Richard Matheson’s novel of the same name.
Despite some questionable visual effects, Smith’s performance carries what is ultimately a familiar but watchable sci-fi concept.
The I Am Legend we know and love was a long time coming. Tom Cruise, Michael Douglas, and Mel Gibson were all considered for an adaptation in the late 90s before Arnold Schwarzenegger finalised a deal to take the role.
That adaptation was shelved owing to an ever increasing budget and it would be Francis Lawrence (The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 and 2) that would eventually take the director’s chair with Smith in the main role.
Will Smith as Dr. Robert Neville in I am Legend (Credit: Getty Images)
A sequel in the making.
There really couldn’t be a better time to acquaint yourself with I Am Legend.
Just last year it was announced that a sequel to the 2007 original is in the works. Many of you are probably wondering how a sequel is possible with that ending.
Well fear not, we’ve got you covered right here (spoilers ahead).
I Am Legend is available to watch on Netflix in Ireland and the UK now.
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