I Am Legend (film)

I Am Legend
Company type	Film
Industry	Motion picture
Founded	2007; 19 years ago
Founder	Francis Lawrence (director), Akiva Goldsman (screenplay), Mark Protosevich (screenplay)
Headquarters	New York City, United States
Products	Film adaptation of Richard Matheson's novel "I Am Legend"

I Am Legend is a 2007 American film blending post-apocalyptic, action, and horror genres, directed by Francis Lawrence with a screenplay crafted by Akiva Goldsman and Mark Protosevich. Featuring Will Smith as Robert Neville, a virologist in the US Army, the story draws inspiration from the 1954 novel authored by Richard Matheson. Set in a devastated New York City following a virus originally engineered to treat cancer that has nearly wiped out humanity, Neville remains the sole immune human striving to find a cure while fending off aggressive nocturnal mutants. This film marks the third adaptation of Matheson's work, succeeding 1964's The Last Man on Earth and 1971's The Omega Man.

Development of I Am Legend began at Warner Bros. in 1994, involving numerous actors and directors throughout its lengthy pre-production phase. Concerns over budget caused delays, but principal photography commenced in 2006, predominantly shot on-site in New York City, including an elaborate $5 million sequence filmed at the Brooklyn Bridge.

The movie premiered on December 14, 2007, across the United States and Canada, achieving the highest December box office opening (excluding Christmas releases) domestically and ranking as the seventh top-grossing film of that year. It amassed $256 million in domestic revenue and $329 million internationally, culminating in a global total of $585 million. Critical reception was mostly favorable, with particular acclaim for Smith’s acting; however, changes from the original novel—especially regarding the conclusion—elicited some disapproval. In 2022, plans for a sequel were announced featuring Smith’s return as lead and co-producer alongside Michael B. Jordan, who will also appear as a star.

Plot

In 2009, a genetically modified measles virus created to cure cancer mutates into the deadly Krippin Virus (KV), resulting in the deaths of 90% of the human population. Those who survive either possess natural immunity or transform into nocturnal creatures known as Darkseekers—sunlight-averse mutants that hunt immune humans.

By 2012, LTC Robert Neville, a U.S. Army virologist, resides alone within a fortified area of Washington Square Park in Manhattan. He conducts experiments on infected rats to develop a vaccine while scavenging essential supplies and transmitting radio signals to locate other survivors. His sole companion is his German Shepherd named Samantha (Sam). Plagued by memories of his late wife and daughter, Neville secures himself indoors at night to avoid attacks from Darkseekers.

During a supply run, Neville encounters a building overrun by Darkseekers but manages to escape with Sam unharmed. He captures a female Darkseeker to test treatments derived from his own blood; initially, these efforts show no improvement. The following day, after noticing a mannequin dubbed "Fred" near Grand Central Terminal, Neville becomes trapped and assaulted by infected dogs; Sam suffers a bite and is ultimately euthanized after contracting the infection.

Overcome by sorrow, Neville engages the Darkseekers directly but is saved by Anna and Ethan—immune survivors traveling from Maryland en route to a settlement in Bethel, Vermont. Skeptical about the camp's existence, Neville persists in attempting to cure the female Darkseeker by lowering her body temperature to boost treatment effectiveness.

When Darkseekers invade his residence, Neville retreats with Anna, Ethan, and their captive subject to his basement laboratory. As the dominant alpha male breaks inside, Neville hands Anna a vial containing the cure and confines her and Ethan within a coal chute. He then sacrifices himself along with the attacking mutants by detonating a grenade, safeguarding the cure’s survival.

Anna and Ethan arrive at the Bethel survivor community delivering the cure. Anna recounts how Neville’s selfless act became an enduring symbol of hope in humanity’s battle against the virus.

Cast

Will Smith portrays Dr. Robert Neville, a virologist and the last surviving human in New York City, dedicated to finding a cure for the virus
Alice Braga plays Anna, a survivor with strong religious faith following the outbreak
Charlie Tahan appears as Ethan, a youthful survivor
Abbey and Kona portray Samantha ("Sam"), Robert's loyal German Shepherd and companion
Dash Mihok acts as the Alpha Male, leader of the Darkseekers—vampiric beings infected by the Krippin Virus
Emma Thompson takes on the role of Dr. Alice Krippin, the scientist responsible for creating the Krippin Virus
Salli Richardson is Zoe Neville, Robert’s wife who perished after the outbreak
Willow Smith features as Marley Neville, daughter of Robert and Zoe, who died shortly following the outbreak
Joanna Numata plays Alpha Female, partner to Alpha Male and subject of Neville’s experiments
Darrell Foster appears as Mike, a soldier who accompanies Neville during the initial stages of the outbreak
Pat Fraley provides the voice for the President of the United States
Mike Patton voices the Darkseekers, albino creatures infected by the Krippin Virus

Development

Warner Bros. initiated development of I Am Legend in 1995, having held adaptation rights since 1970 and previously producing the 1971 film The Omega Man. Screenwriter Mark Protosevich was brought on board after his work on The Cell garnered attention. His initial draft (2000) introduced civilized Hemocytes and portrayed Anna as morphine-dependent, incorporating elements that would appear in the final version. Producer Neal H. Moritz became involved early in development.

Candidates for the lead role included Tom Cruise, Michael Douglas, and Mel Gibson. By mid-1997, Warner Bros. favored Arnold Schwarzenegger with Ridley Scott attached as director. Scott replaced Protosevich with John Logan; their iteration transformed the story into a sci-fi psychological thriller characterized by sparse dialogue and a bleak conclusion. The studio expressed concerns about commercial appeal and merchandising potential due to limited action sequences.

Budget projections rose to $108 million by late 1997 amid Warner Bros.' previous disappointments with high-cost sci-fi projects and Schwarzenegger’s recent box office declines. Despite Scott’s attempts to cut expenses, the project was shelved in March 1998. Rob Bowman briefly took over directing duties in 1998 while Protosevich revised an action-focused script; however, Bowman exited to pursue other films.

In 2002 Schwarzenegger assumed a producer role and negotiated with Michael Bay to direct alongside Will Smith starring, based on a reduced-budget rewrite. Warner Bros. president Alan F. Horn ultimately rejected this script. In 2004 Akiva Goldsman was appointed producer; Francis Lawrence signed on to direct in 2005 with production slated for 2006. Guillermo del Toro declined directing to concentrate on Hellboy II.

Goldsman admired The Omega Man and sought to distinguish this adaptation from typical zombie movies and recent titles like 28 Days Later, drawing inspiration from its portrayal of an empty cityscape for New York City’s depiction. By May 2006, a comprehensive scene-by-scene outline had been finalized.

Delays in Smith’s schedule due to Hancock enabled production to commence within sixteen weeks utilizing Goldsman’s script merged with Protosevich’s contributions. The production team consulted infectious disease specialists and researched solitary confinement to enhance realism. Script revisions continued during filming to accommodate Smith’s improvisational input and Lawrence’s preference for silent sequences, influenced by his experience quietly watching The Piano beside his newborn son.

Casting

In April 2006, Will Smith committed to portraying Robert Neville, attracted by I Am Legend's blend of commercial appeal and artistic merit, likening it to films such as Gladiator and Forrest Gump. He regarded this role as his most demanding since playing Muhammad Ali in Ali (2001), emphasizing the difficulty of carrying much of the narrative solo and conveying Neville's mental turmoil during isolation. To prepare, Smith visited the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and engaged with individuals who had endured solitary confinement or captivity. He identified similarities between Neville and the biblical figure Job, delving into themes of despair and resilience, while also drawing inspiration from Tom Hanks' portrayal in Cast Away.

The character of Neville’s dog, Sam, was brought to life by two three-year-old German Shepherds named Abbey and Kona. The supporting cast featured Salli Richardson as Zoe, Robert’s spouse, and Alice Braga as Anna, a fellow survivor. Willow Smith, daughter of Will Smith, made her acting debut playing Marley, Neville’s child. Emma Thompson appeared without credit as Dr. Alice Krippin, the scientist explaining the cancer treatment that mutated into the virus. Vocal effects for the infected "hemocytes" were provided by singer Mike Patton, while Dash Mihok animated the "alpha male" infected creature. Additional minor parts appeared through news segments and flashbacks, including voices representing the unnamed President and members of The Today Show.

Filming

Akiva Goldsman relocated the story setting from Los Angeles to New York City to utilize locations that could more effectively portray desolation. He explained that while Los Angeles may appear deserted during mid-afternoon hours, New York is rarely empty, making it a more compelling backdrop for illustrating a world stripped bare. Although Warner Bros. initially opposed this change due to logistical concerns, director Francis Lawrence was adamant about shooting on-site to preserve authenticity. Lawrence captured bustling city scenes before employing special effects to digitally remove crowds, convincing studio executives of the visual impact. Producer Michael Tadross arranged for closures of heavily trafficked areas including the Grand Central Terminal viaduct, segments of Fifth Avenue, and Washington Square Park. The majority of filming utilized anamorphic lenses, with flashback sequences shot in Super 35 format.

Principal photography commenced on September 23, 2006. The interior scenes of Neville’s residence were filmed at the Marcy Avenue Armory in Williamsburg, while exterior shots took place in Greenwich Village. Additional locations included Tribeca, the aircraft carrier Intrepid, the Kingsbridge Armory in the Bronx, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. To achieve an overgrown urban aesthetic, weeds sourced from Florida were introduced across sets. Street closures during production caused some public discontent among New Yorkers; Will Smith commented on the backlash experienced during filming.

A major flashback sequence depicting a city evacuation was filmed over six nights in January on the Brooklyn Bridge. This $5 million production segment—part of an overall $150 million budget—ranked among the most costly shoots ever undertaken in New York City. It involved a workforce of 250 crew members and 1,000 extras including 160 National Guard troops, alongside numerous vehicles such as Humvees, Strykers, Coast Guard cutters, taxis, police cars, fire engines, and ambulances. Filming concluded on March 31, 2007. Computer-generated imagery was employed to illustrate missile strikes causing the collapse of both Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges as part of Manhattan’s quarantine.

The film’s final scenes were shot in Lambertville, New Jersey. Reshoots occurred around November 2007; director Lawrence indicated these focused primarily on polishing the ending after reviewing nearly finished visual effects sequences.

Effects

After a week of shooting, Lawrence found the depiction of the infected—referred to as "Darkseekers" or "hemocytes"—using prosthetic makeup on actors unconvincing. Consequently, he chose to employ CGI, which increased production costs and prolonged post-production, though the outcomes garnered mixed reactions. The infected were designed with perpetually stimulated adrenal glands, demanding an intense, hyperventilating portrayal that was impractical for performers. Actors contributed motion capture data during filming. To generate distinctive creature vocalizations, Mike Patton from Faith No More was engaged to provide the infected's screams and howls.

In addition to the infected, CGI was utilized to create lions and deer, as well as digitally remove pedestrians, workers, onlookers, and vehicles from New York City scenes. Lawrence sought to present a visually arresting empty urban landscape inspired by John Ford, focusing on a "magical" daylight atmosphere rather than a dark and dystopian ambiance.

Music

The soundtrack for I Am Legend, composed by James Newton Howard and performed by the Hollywood Studio Symphony, was released on January 15, 2008 through Varèse Sarabande. The film incorporates multiple songs by Bob Marley—including "[Redemption Song]", "[Three Little Birds]", "[Buffalo Soldier]", and "[Stir It Up]"—reflecting Marley's thematic influence; notably, Neville’s daughter is named in his honor.

Release

Theatrical

Originally planned for release on November 21, 2007 in the United States and Canada, I Am Legend was postponed to December 14. It debuted on December 26, 2007 in the United Kingdom and Ireland after being delayed from an initial January 4, 2008 premiere.

In December 2007, China temporarily banned all American films, delaying I Am Legend’s release there. Will Smith engaged with the chairman of China Film Group to negotiate a release date but acknowledged limited availability for foreign films.

Premieres were held in Tokyo, New York, and London. At the London premiere in Leicester Square, comedian Neg Dupree interrupted the red carpet as part of a stunt for his show Balls of Steel.

Marketing

The film’s teaser trailer was attached to screenings of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. A tie-in comic titled I Am Legend: Awakening was produced by DC Comics and Vertigo Comics with contributions from Bill Sienkiewicz, screenwriter Mark Protosevich, author Orson Scott Card, and Richard Christian Matheson (son of the original novel’s author). This project evolved into online animated shorts featured on the official website.

In October 2007, Warner Bros. Pictures collaborated with Electric Sheep Company to launch I Am Legend: Survival, an online multiplayer game within the virtual world Second Life. This marked the largest virtual world game supporting a film release at that time, encompassing gameplay across a 60-acre replica of New York City. Additionally, Crew Creative was hired to develop an iPhone-optimized website for promotional purposes.

Home media

Warner Home Video released I Am Legend on DVD on March 18, 2008 in two editions: a single-disc version containing four animated comics and DVD-ROM extras, and a two-disc special edition that included these features plus an alternate theatrical cut closer to the novel’s ending along with a digital copy. High-definition formats on Blu-ray Disc and HD DVD were also launched alongside the DVD; HD DVD followed on April 8, 2008. Both high-definition editions contained all special features from the two-disc set. Later, a three-disc Ultimate Collector's Edition was released on December 9, 2008. On December 6, 2016, an Ultra HD Blu-ray combo pack became available featuring the theatrical version in 4K resolution, a standard Blu-ray disc with both cuts of the film plus all extras, and a digital copy.

The movie sold approximately 7.04 million DVDs generating $126.2 million in revenue, ranking as the sixth best-selling DVD title in 2008. Despite these figures, Warner Bros. expressed some dissatisfaction regarding its performance in the home video market.

The two-disc special edition introduced an alternate ending faithful to the book that was removed from theaters due to negative test audience reactions:

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In February 2023 it was announced that forthcoming sequel installments would follow this alternate conclusion instead of the theatrical ending, with Will Smith reprising his role as Neville continuing experiments on the Darkseekers.

Reception

Box office

I Am Legend opened with $77.2 million domestically during its first weekend, topping box office charts ahead of Alvin and the Chipmunks. It established a new record for highest December opening weekend at that time by surpassing The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, although this record was later surpassed by The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey in 2012.

The film grossed $256 million in North America and $329 million internationally for a worldwide total of $585.4 million.

Critical response

On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 68% approval rating based on 217 reviews with an average score of 6.34/10. The consensus praises Will Smith’s compelling lead performance despite some questionable visual effects. Metacritic assigns it a weighted average score of 65 out of 100 from 37 critics indicating "generally favorable" reviews. Audience polling by CinemaScore gave it a grade of "B".

Critics lauded Will Smith’s "graceful and effortless performance," though several noted shortcomings in the final act. The film’s themes around human survival and civilization were acknowledged positively while some reviewers felt that the infected lacked sufficient menace. NPR highlighted its underlying commentary on global terrorism aligning it with other contemporary films addressing similar subjects. Positive remarks also came from Richard Roeper and Roger Ebert, who praised its screenplay depth and structure.

However, criticism arose over departures from Matheson's novel especially concerning its Christian motifs. Much negative attention focused on the third act with many reviewers favoring the alternate ending included in home media releases.

Other response

On December 14, 2007, Popular Mechanics published an article analyzing scientific aspects raised by the film including:

The rate at which urban infrastructure decays alongside survival prospects for fauna and flora
The feasibility of an uncontrollable spread of a retrovirus (noting that measles is actually caused by a Paramyxovirus)
The structural mechanics behind destruction of Brooklyn Bridge

Experts such as Alan Weisman, virologist W. Ian Lipkin, and Michel Bruneau PhD were consulted for comparison against film portrayals. The article questioned virus mutation plausibility and medical outcomes while noting that suspension bridges like Brooklyn Bridge would more likely collapse entirely rather than lose just their central span. Neville’s use of gasoline-powered generators for electricity was considered plausible: "This part of the tale is possible if not entirely likely," stated Popular Mechanics editor Roy Berendsohn.

Philosopher Slavoj Žižek critiqued the movie politically as a "regressive" adaptation contrasting it with the novel’s "progressive multicultural message." He argued that presenting the cure via "divine intervention" diverges from original themes favoring "religious fundamentalism."

Accolades

I Am Legend received four nominations from the Visual Effects Society awards alongside a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Stunt Ensemble at the Screen Actors Guild Awards. It also earned nods for Outstanding Film and Actor at the Image Awards as well as Best Sound at the Satellite Awards. In June 2008 Will Smith won both Best Actor at the Saturn Award ceremony and Best Male Performance at the MTV Movie Awards.

Sequel

Director Francis Lawrence revealed plans in 2008 for a prequel featuring Will Smith reprising his role to explore Neville’s story prior to New York’s infection outbreak. Screenwriter D.B. Weiss was hired to draft this script with Lawrence considering returning if convinced by its quality. Smith described a storyline involving a final battle spanning New York City to Washington D.C., combating viral spread. Lawrence noted challenges revisiting themes of isolation innovatively but confirmed by May 2011 that prequel development had ceased.

By 2012 Warner Bros. entered discussions about another sequel with Smith returning. In 2014 they acquired a script titled A Garden at the End of the World, initially unrelated but rewritten by Gary Graham as an I Am Legend reboot intended to launch a franchise; Smith had not yet confirmed involvement.

On March 4, 2022 it was officially announced that a sequel would proceed starring Smith alongside Michael B. Jordan, both producing while Akiva Goldsman returned as screenwriter. This follow-up will adopt the alternate ending rather than original theatrical conclusion.

On July 25, 2024 Goldsman disclosed completion of a second draft script; one day later Steven Caple Jr. entered negotiations to direct this sequel.

References

Bibliography

I Am Legend, Richard Matheson, Tor Books, Reissue edition (October 30, 2007),

External links