I Am Legend: A Post-Apocalyptic Masterpiece with a Twist

I Am Legend: The Alternate Ending That Makes It a Way Better Movie

The Original Ending: A Tragic Sacrifice

The 2007 film “I Am Legend” starring Will Smith as Dr. Robert Neville is a thrilling tale of survival and redemption in a post-apocalyptic world. The movie’s storyline is a faithful adaptation of Richard Matheson’s 1954 novel of the same name, but it’s not the only version of the story. In fact, there’s an alternate ending that has been preferred by many viewers, and it’s a darker and more thought-provoking conclusion that explores the true nature of Dr. Neville and his actions.

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The Alternate Ending: A More Nuanced Conclusion

The alternate ending of “I Am Legend” is a more nuanced and thought-provoking conclusion that challenges our assumptions about Dr. Neville’s character. In this version of the story, Dr. Neville doesn’t sacrifice himself to save Anna and Ethan; instead, he decides to hand over the Alpha Female to her people and gives up his quest for a cure. He realizes that he has become a monster, experimenting on the Darkseekers and sees himself in their eyes.

The Themes of Humanity and Redemption

The themes of humanity and redemption are at the heart of “I Am Legend”. The movie explores the idea that even in a world gone mad, there is always hope for redemption and a chance to start anew. Dr. Neville’s journey is a testament to this idea, as he struggles to find meaning and purpose in a world that has been destroyed by the virus.

Plot

“I Am Legend” is a 2007 science fiction horror film directed by Francis Lawrence, starring Will Smith, Alice Braga, and Charlie Tahan. The movie is set in a post-apocalyptic world where a virus has wiped out most of humanity, leaving only a few thousand infected humans, known as “Darkseekers”, who roam the earth seeking to infect and destroy the remaining survivors.

The movie follows Robert Neville (Will Smith), a military scientist who has discovered a cure for the virus, but is unable to find a way to distribute it effectively. Neville is forced to live in isolation, surviving in an abandoned library in New York City, where he spends his days searching for a cure and his nights defending himself against the Darkseekers.

As Neville struggles to find a way to save humanity, he meets Anna (Alice Braga) and her son Ethan (Charlie Tahan), who have managed to survive in a small community. Neville’s encounter with Anna and Ethan sets off a chain of events that ultimately leads to a dramatic conclusion.

Spoiler Alert

The movie’s plot takes a dramatic turn when Neville discovers that Anna and Ethan are not what they seem. In a shocking twist, it is revealed that they are actually infected with the virus, and have been using Neville to find a cure for themselves.

Neville is forced to confront the harsh reality that he may have been wrong about Anna and Ethan all along. In a heart-wrenching scene, Neville is forced to make a difficult decision, sacrificing himself to save the two individuals who have become like family to him.

Cast

The movie boasts an impressive cast, with Will Smith starring as the main protagonist, Robert Neville. Alice Braga and Charlie Tahan play the roles of Anna and Ethan, respectively. The movie also features cameos from several notable actors, including Emma Thompson and Dash Mihok.

Box Office

“I Am Legend” was a commercial success, grossing over $585 million worldwide. The movie received positive reviews from critics, with many praising Will Smith’s performance and the film’s thought-provoking themes.

Impact on Popular Culture

“I Am Legend” has had a significant impact on popular culture, with the movie’s themes of isolation, survival, and redemption resonating with audiences worldwide. The movie’s post-apocalyptic setting has also inspired countless works of fan fiction, art, and music.

Critical Reception

The movie received positive reviews from critics, with many praising Will Smith’s performance and the film’s thought-provoking themes. The movie holds a 64% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with many critics praising its unique take on the post-apocalyptic genre.

Awards and Nominations

“I Am Legend” was nominated for several awards, including two Academy Awards for Best Visual Effects and Best Sound Editing. The movie also won several other awards, including the Saturn Award for Best Science Fiction Film.

Legacy

“I Am Legend” has left a lasting impact on popular culture, inspiring countless works of fan fiction, art, and music. The movie’s themes of isolation, survival, and redemption continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.

Conclusion

“I Am Legend” is a thought-provoking movie that explores the themes of humanity, redemption, and acceptance in a post-apocalyptic world. The alternate ending provides a more nuanced and thought-provoking conclusion that challenges our assumptions about Dr. Neville’s character.

The movie’s impact on popular culture is undeniable, and it continues to be celebrated as one of the best sci-fi movies of all time. Whether you prefer the original ending or the alternate ending, “I Am Legend” is a must-see movie for anyone who loves science fiction or post-apocalyptic storytelling.