Exploring the Alternate Ending of “I Am Legend” and its Impact on the Franchise

News: The post-apocalyptic action thriller film “I Am Legend,” directed by Francis Lawrence and starring Will Smith, captivated audiences upon its release in 2007. Loosely based on Richard Matheson’s 1954 novel, the movie tells the story of Robert Neville, a US Army virologist who becomes the last human survivor in a world ravaged by a virus. While the original ending of the film received mixed reactions, the alternate ending added depth to the story, leading to the development of a highly anticipated sequel.

The Alternate Ending

In the alternate ending, the infected creatures known as Darkseekers are revealed to be intelligent beings with emotions. Neville, in his pursuit of finding a cure, conducts intense experiments, including kidnapping an infected woman for testing purposes. However, when the creatures attack Neville’s place, their intention is not to harm him but to rescue their friend. This revelation deeply affects Neville, causing him to question his actions and whether he has been on the right path.

Contrasting Endings

The original ending showcased Neville sacrificing himself for the greater good, sparking debates among viewers. Some felt that this ending missed the essence of the novel, which focused on morality rather than simply battling zombies. The alternate ending, on the other hand, aligns more closely with the original novel, providing a richer and more thought-provoking conclusion to the story.

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Implications for the Sequel

The positive reception of the alternate ending propelled the decision to create a sequel, titled “I Am Legend 2,” which will follow the alternate ending’s storyline. This choice addresses the challenge of Will Smith’s character surviving in the original ending. Fans are excited to delve into the post-survival experiences of Neville and witness how he copes with the cure. The alternate ending adds depth to the story, creating intriguing possibilities for the sequel.

Development and Success

“I Am Legend” faced numerous challenges during its development, starting in 1994. The project attracted various actors and directors, but production delays and budget concerns caused setbacks. Filming eventually commenced in 2006, with significant scenes shot in New York City, including the iconic Brooklyn Bridge sequence. The film’s release on December 14, 2007, shattered box office records for a non-Christmas film released in December, earning a total of $585 million worldwide.

Reception and Expectations

Critics generally praised the film, particularly Will Smith’s performance. However, the differing ending sparked discussions among fans. In 2022, it was announced that a sequel was in development, with Smith reprising his role as Robert Neville and co-producing alongside Michael B. Jordan, who would also have a prominent role in the film. This news generated excitement as audiences eagerly anticipate the exploration of unanswered questions and the further development of the intriguing narrative.

Streaming Availability

For those interested in experiencing or revisiting “I Am Legend,” the film can be streamed on various platforms, including ROW8, Prime Video, Apple TV, or Vudu, using a Roku device. The alternate ending of “I Am Legend” not only deepened the story but also influenced the decision to create a sequel. Fans’ appreciation for the alternate ending’s emotional resonance and its alignment with the original novel led to its inclusion in “I Am Legend 2.” The film’s success and enduring popularity, coupled with the anticipation surrounding the sequel, demonstrate the impact of a well-crafted ending in captivating audiences and creating a rich cinematic universe.

FAQs

Q: What was the original ending of “I Am Legend”?

A: The original ending showcased Neville sacrificing himself for the greater good.

Q: What is the alternate ending of “I Am Legend”?

A: In the alternate ending, the infected creatures known as Darkseekers are revealed to be intelligent beings with emotions.

Q: When will “I Am Legend 2” be released?

A: The release date for “I Am Legend 2” has not been announced yet.