Movie buffs, your attention please! Fans of the post-apocalyptic classic I Am Legend have every reason to celebrate right now. In a recent panel at San Diego Comic-Con, Akiva Goldsman, the successful screenwriter behind the original film, revealed that he is currently working on a much-anticipated sequel.
This exciting news was shared during the Producers on Producing panel, hosted by Collider’s Steve Weintraub, where Goldsman appeared alongside renowned producers Roy Lee and Lorenzo di Bonaventura. Goldsman promised that there would be “good news soon” and shared that he is actively developing the story for this follow-up to the 2007 hit.
Good News from San Diego Comic-Con
At the San Diego Comic-Con, Goldsman confirmed that the sequel will follow the alternate cut of the original film, where Neville survives. “We’re sequelizing the alternate cut. The one that we were talking about earlier, where Will lives and things didn’t go so well for humanity,” he said. This decision opens up intriguing possibilities for the storyline and character development in the sequel.
Revisiting the Original I Am Legend
For those who need a refresher, the original I Am Legend starred Will Smith as Dr. Robert Neville, a scientist seemingly the last human survivor in New York City following a virus outbreak. Intended to cure cancer, the virus mutates into a deadly strain, wiping out most of humanity and transforming the rest into nocturnal creatures known as “Darkseekers”. Neville dedicates his life to finding a cure using his immune blood, leading to a gripping blend of survival drama and horror as he struggles to maintain his sanity and hope in an utterly wild world.
Michael B. Jordan Joins The Cast
Adding to the excitement, Goldsman revealed that Michael B. Jordan would be joining the cast. “The idea is both Michael B. Jordan and Will Smith. I wrote a draft, and that draft put me and Will and Mike, and our producing partners in a room where we spent a week doing really fun stuff of talking story. I wrote another draft based on that week, and I imagine there will be some very good news shortly,” Goldsman shared. The potential collaboration between Smith and Jordan could inject fresh energy into the franchise, appealing to both old fans and new audiences.
A New Vision Of Post-Apocalyptic New York
Additionally, Goldsman hinted at the potential storyline, offering a fresh perspective on the post-apocalyptic setting.
“Yeah, and I will tell you something about Legend—it’s counterintuitive, what happens to New York after 30 years, because you imagine a post-apocalyptic scenario, but if you actually do research about what happens to cities, it’s pretty much the opposite. The world returns, and it returns in a way that is kind of spectacular. So, that’s a really exciting playground for all of us because it’s not your father’s I Am Legend“
– Akiva Goldsman during Collider Interview
Given the massive popularity of the original film and the continued relevance of post-apocalyptic stories, the I Am Legend sequel holds immense weight and promise. Goldsman’s involvement makes sure that the new installment will likely maintain the emotional depth and continuity from the original film. The return of Will Smith, coupled with the addition of Michael B. Jordan, sets the stage for a captivating continuation of the story. Goldsman also mentioned the progress of the sequel, adding:
“What’s interesting about both of these projects is both are gonna play, I would imagine, with the real use of time for these characters. So, what’s happened with Constantine over the 20 years, and what’s happened in the world of I Am Legend over those decades?“
– Akiva Goldsman during Collider Interview
The Legacy of I Am Legend
The original I Am Legend received overall positive reviews from critics. Smith’s performance as Dr. Robert Neville was widely praised, along with the film’s visual effects and suspenseful atmosphere. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 68% approval rating from critics and an even higher audience score, reflecting strong approval from general moviegoers. The film had a production budget of approximately $150 million and grossed over $585 million worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing films of 2007.
The original movie left a lasting impact on audiences and the film industry. Its blend of thrilling action, emotional depth, and thought-provoking themes resonated with viewers and set a high standard for post-apocalyptic films. Now, fast forward to today, and the sequel has the potential to build on this legacy, exploring new dimensions of the story while honoring the elements that made the original film a classic.
The Anticipation Builds
With such a successful foundation, it’s no wonder that the sequel to I Am Legend is highly anticipated. Fans have been anxiously waiting for a continuation of Neville’s story, and the involvement of Goldsman, Smith, and Jordan promises a film that will live up to the original’s legacy. The new vision of a post-apocalyptic New York, coupled with the exploration of what has happened over the decades, adds a unique twist that will undoubtedly captivate audiences.
Overall, the announcement of the I Am Legend sequel has sparked excitement and anticipation among movie fans. With Akiva Goldsman at the head of it, the involvement of Will Smith and Michael B. Jordan, the sequel promises to deliver a captivating and emotionally resonant continuation of the story. In the meantime, keep an eye out for more updates and behind-the-scenes content. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the original film or a newcomer to the story, I Am Legend 2 is set to be a cinematic experience like no other.
