Will Smith carried the blockbuster I Am Legend all by himself – helped only by a dog and strange, zombie-like creatures with stretchy jaws. This year it became known that a Sequel to I Am Legend is developed. We explain what’s behind it and why it’s a very good idea despite the logical hurdles, even 14 years later.
Watch the trailer for the sci-fi movie I Am Legend
I Am Legend – Trailer (German) HD
I am Legend is perhaps Will Smith’s most ambitious sci-fi blockbuster
The more stars and figures modern blockbusters combine in themselves these days, the more successful they become. I am Legend is a fairly big budget one man show, special effects character drama. Smith plays that Scientist Robert Neville, who wants to find an antidote to the virus that seems to have wiped out humanity. He lives alone in New York, his only friends are mannequins and his dog Sam.
The sole focus on the character Robert Neville is an excellent decision that the film consistently follows through. At blockbuster level, this is only possible with actors like Will Smith, Tom Cruise or Scarlett Johansson, who bring a certain screen presence and charisma. Smith suffices as an orientation figure in this concentrated setting.
I am Legend Part 2 comes with Will Smith
Spoilers for Part 1: A sequel to wildly successful sci-fi thriller was always in the air, but has never been realized in the 14 years since publication. Also because the hurdles were simply too high. After all, Smith’s character eventually dies, and with it the role of the star who carried the film. There has even been thought of Smith returning as a clone.
But that is not absolutely necessary. The book template, for example, leaves a back door open for Robert Neville that allows him to survive. In addition, the sequel could be based on the alternative ending of part 1, in which Neville does not die in the first place. So Smith’s return is complicated but doable.
Read more about how Will Smith could return here.
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