Written by Elli Major
Modified & Updated: 02 Oct 2024
Reviewed by Jessica Corbett
Key Takeaways:
- “I Am Legend” is a post-apocalyptic movie based on a novel, featuring Will Smith and a loyal dog. It blends horror, science fiction, and drama, captivating audiences with its haunting visuals and themes of survival.
- The film’s success led to talks of a potential sequel, showcasing Will Smith’s versatile acting and earning critical acclaim. Its legacy endures as a beloved post-apocalyptic gem, captivating audiences with its thrilling story and breathtaking visuals.
“I Am Legend” is based on a novel by Richard Matheson.
The film is an adaptation of the 1954 novel of the same name, written by Richard Matheson.
The movie was released on December 14, 2007.
“I Am Legend” premiered in theaters during the holiday season, captivating audiences worldwide.
Will Smith plays the lead role of Robert Neville.
The talented Will Smith delivers a powerful performance as Robert Neville, a scientist struggling to survive in a post-apocalyptic New York City.
The film’s budget was approximately $150 million.
I Am Legend” had a substantial budget, allowing for stunning special effects and high production values.
The movie grossed over $585 million worldwide.
With its captivating storyline and Will Smith’s star power, “I Am Legend” became a massive box office success.
The film was shot primarily in New York City.
New York City serves as the backdrop for much of the movie, showcasing iconic locations in a post-apocalyptic setting.
The infected humans in the movie are called “Darkseekers”.
The aggressive, virus-infected humans in “I Am Legend” are referred to as “Darkseekers”.
Practical effects were used to create the infected makeup.
The makeup team utilized practical effects to bring the terrifying appearance of the infected to life.
The movie features a faithful companion, a dog named Samantha.
Robert Neville’s loyal companion, Samantha, played by a German Shepherd, adds a touching and emotional element to the story.
“I Am Legend” took inspiration from classic horror films.
The film pays homage to classic horror movies like “Night of the Living Dead” and “The Last Man on Earth.
The film features breathtaking visual effects.
The stunning visual effects in “I Am Legend” immerse the audience in the post-apocalyptic world and add to the intensity of the story.
Will Smith’s performance earned critical acclaim.
Will Smith’s portrayal of Robert Neville was praised by critics for his emotional depth and commitment to the role.
The original ending of the movie was changed after test screenings.
Initial audiences had mixed reactions to the original ending, leading to a decision to change it for the theatrical release.
A director’s cut version of the film was released on DVD.
The director’s cut includes alternate scenes and reveals more about the fate of the infected humans.
The movie’s score was composed by James Newton Howard.
James Newton Howard’s haunting and atmospheric score perfectly complements the film’s tone and adds to the suspense.
“I Am Legend” is the third movie adaptation of Richard Matheson’s novel.
Prior to the 2007 version, the novel was adapted into films titled “The Last Man on Earth” (1964) and “The Omega Man” (1971).
Robert Neville’s home in the movie is a real-life Washington Square townhouse.
The townhouse used as the character Robert Neville’s home is an actual residence located in Washington Square, New York City.
The film features breathtaking aerial shots of a deserted New York City.
The movie showcases stunning aerial shots of famous landmarks, now desolate and reclaimed by nature.
“I Am Legend” was the highest-grossing December opening at the time of its release.
The movie’s strong performance at the box office solidified its place as a blockbuster hit.
The film explores themes of isolation and the human condition.
Beyond the thrilling action, “I Am Legend” delves into deeper themes of survival, loneliness, and the resilience of the human spirit.
“I Am Legend” had multiple screenplay rewrites.
Over the course of its development, the film went through several rewrites to fine-tune the screenplay and enhance the storytelling.
The film has a runtime of 101 minutes.
“I Am Legend” is a compact and fast-paced film, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
The movie’s production was temporarily halted due to a firefighters strike.
A firefighters strike in New York City led to a brief pause in the filming of “I Am Legend.
The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Makeup.
The remarkable makeup effects in the film earned it a nomination for Best Makeup at the 80th Academy Awards.
Will Smith trained with an actual virologist to prepare for his role.
To bring authenticity to his role as a scientist, Will Smith received guidance from a virologist to understand the character’s profession.
“I Am Legend” created a sense of eerie atmosphere through its use of lighting.
The movie’s lighting techniques play a significant role in establishing the haunting and desolate atmosphere of the post-apocalyptic world.
The film’s production faced challenges due to strict regulations regarding the use of animals in movies.
The involvement of the dog, Samantha, in the film required adherence to regulations to ensure the welfare of the animal.
“I Am Legend” explores the boundaries of science and ethics.
The film raises thought-provoking questions about the morality of scientific research and the consequences of pushing scientific boundaries.
The movie’s title is a reference to a biblical passage.
The title “I Am Legend” is an allusion to the biblical passage where God declares, “I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end.
The movie’s post-apocalyptic setting was achieved through a combination of practical effects and CGI.
The seamless blend of practical effects and computer-generated imagery created a believable and awe-inspiring post-apocalyptic world.
“I Am Legend” showcases Will Smith’s versatility as an actor.
The film allowed Will Smith to showcase his range as he juggles intense action sequences, emotional moments, and moments of quiet introspection.
The movie’s soundtrack features a mix of contemporary and classical music.
The soundtrack includes a diverse range of songs, from contemporary hits to classical compositions, adding depth to the film’s emotional impact.
“I Am Legend” was a box office success despite receiving mixed reviews from critics.
The film’s commercial success demonstrated its broad appeal to audiences, even if some critics had mixed opinions about certain aspects of the film.
Scenes of a deserted Times Square were accomplished by shooting late at night and using CGI.
To achieve the eerie deserted look of Times Square, the crew filmed late at night and utilized CGI to remove any signs of life.
“I Am Legend” explores the concept of the last man alive in a unique and captivating way.
The film adds its own twist to the idea of being the last person on Earth, presenting it in a way that keeps audiences engaged and emotionally invested.
The movie’s success led to discussions of a potential sequel.
Given the positive reception and the strong box office performance, talks of a sequel to “I Am Legend” were explored by the filmmakers.
The film incorporates elements of science fiction, horror, and drama.
“I Am Legend” seamlessly blends multiple genres, creating a captivating and thrilling cinematic experience.
The movie’s tagline is “The last man on Earth is not alone.”
The tagline emphasizes the underlying suspense and mystery of the film as Robert Neville discovers he may not be the only survivor.
“I Am Legend” showcases New York City in an entirely different light.
The film presents a haunting and desolate version of the bustling city, giving viewers a fresh perspective on the iconic metropolis.
The legacy of “I Am Legend” endures, remaining a beloved post-apocalyptic film.
Over a decade after its release, “I Am Legend” continues to captivate audiences and is recognized as an influential and memorable film in the genre.
And there you have it, the 40 intriguing facts about the movie “I Am Legend” that highlights its impact, production, and legacy. Whether you’re a fan of post-apocalyptic films, Will Smith, or captivating storytelling, “I Am Legend” is a movie that continues to leave a lasting impression on viewers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “I Am Legend” is a gripping and influential post-apocalyptic movie that has captivated audiences around the world. With its intense performances, thought-provoking storyline, and stunning visuals, it has cemented itself as a modern classic in the sci-fi genre. Will Smith’s portrayal of Robert Neville is masterful, showcasing the complexities of the human condition in a world devoid of civilization.
The film’s exploration of isolation, survival, and the delicate balance between hope and despair has resonated with viewers, making it a memorable and compelling cinematic experience. The iconic scenes and memorable lines have become ingrained in popular culture, further solidifying its place in movie history.
Overall, “I Am Legend” is a must-watch for any movie enthusiast, offering a thrilling and emotional journey that will leave a lasting impact.
FAQs
1. What is the plot of “I Am Legend”?
Set in a post-apocalyptic world, the movie follows Robert Neville, a survivor of a devastating virus that has turned the majority of the population into mutated vampires. Neville, accompanied by his loyal dog, seeks a cure while navigating the dangers of the deserted New York City.
2. Why is the movie titled “I Am Legend”?
The title is a reference to the character Robert Neville, who sees himself as the last man standing in a world dominated by monsters. He becomes a legend within this new society of mutants, struggling to survive and find a cure.
3. Who stars in “I Am Legend”?
The film stars Will Smith as Robert Neville, alongside Alice Braga as Anna, and Dash Mihok as Neville’s neighbor. However, the standout performance is undoubtedly Will Smith’s, who brings depth and intensity to his portrayal of a man fighting to survive.
4. Is “I Am Legend” based on a book?
Yes, the movie is based on the 1954 novel of the same name by Richard Matheson. However, the film takes liberties with the source material, deviating from the original ending and certain plot points.
5. What was the impact of “I Am Legend” on the movie industry?
“I Am Legend” was a commercial success, grossing over $585 million worldwide. It also popularized the post-apocalyptic genre and influenced subsequent films and TV shows in its wake. The movie’s pioneering use of CGI in creating immersive, desolate landscapes set a new standard for visual effects in the industry.
If you're fascinated by the incredible Will Smith and his remarkable career, don't miss our article packed with intriguing facts about this talented actor. For those who love thrilling tales of survival, check out our piece featuring 19 mind-blowing facts that will leave you in awe. And if you can't get enough of gripping post-apocalyptic stories, our article on the movie Mad Max: Fury Road is a must-read, with 30 facts that will transport you to a world beyond imagination.
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