2008 Woodie Awards
The legend of Will Smith
Robert Dora
Issue date: 1/14/08 Section: Entertainment
I am Legend came to the Roxy on Friday, December 14. The movie is based upon a novel by Richard Matheson, who is considered to be one of the most influential writers in science fiction and horror genres today. The movie and the book are different in many ways, but both use the same premise. The majority of the film takes place in the near future (2012 for the movie and 1976 for the book). A virus has spread throughout the world, turning most of the world's population into Vampire-like creatures known as "Dark Seekers."
The virus was developed by mankind in an attempt to stop a terrible disease, yet it ended up creating a much more potent one. The film centers around Robert Neville, a military scientist that has chosen to remain in dark and deserted New York City in an attempt to find a cure. Will Smith plays Neville, and he is the only character, aside from his dog that we see for most of the movie.
The initial premise of the movie may sound familiar: a virus has turned most of the planet into zombie-esque creatures. Resident Evil examines this scenario, but while Resident Evil focuses on bloody battles and special effects, I am Legend uses suspense. Legend has a Castaway-like feel to it; the audience watches a man's attempt to stay sane without human contact for over three years. The story focuses on the inner struggles of Smith's character, making the epidemic a secondary plot line. Smith connects with audiences. The emotional scenes hit hard, separating the film from others of its kind.
Legend has enough heart to draw viewers in, and enough action to keep them entertained. The film isn't perfect, of course. Audiences always wish they could change things, and this film is no different. The first half of the movie strips away one's sense of faith and hope. By the end, however, I am Legend returns these in even greater quantity. The film delivers more than it promises and is well worth a trip to the theater.
The virus was developed by mankind in an attempt to stop a terrible disease, yet it ended up creating a much more potent one. The film centers around Robert Neville, a military scientist that has chosen to remain in dark and deserted New York City in an attempt to find a cure. Will Smith plays Neville, and he is the only character, aside from his dog that we see for most of the movie.
The initial premise of the movie may sound familiar: a virus has turned most of the planet into zombie-esque creatures. Resident Evil examines this scenario, but while Resident Evil focuses on bloody battles and special effects, I am Legend uses suspense. Legend has a Castaway-like feel to it; the audience watches a man's attempt to stay sane without human contact for over three years. The story focuses on the inner struggles of Smith's character, making the epidemic a secondary plot line. Smith connects with audiences. The emotional scenes hit hard, separating the film from others of its kind.
Legend has enough heart to draw viewers in, and enough action to keep them entertained. The film isn't perfect, of course. Audiences always wish they could change things, and this film is no different. The first half of the movie strips away one's sense of faith and hope. By the end, however, I am Legend returns these in even greater quantity. The film delivers more than it promises and is well worth a trip to the theater.
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