Will Smith recently shared insights on the initial concept for the highly anticipated I Am Legend 2, featuring Michael B. Jordan. His updated vision for the sequel significantly enhances its narrative potential. The first installment, inspired by Richard Matheson’s novel, followed Smith’s character, Robert Neville, as he navigated a post-apocalyptic New York City devastated by the Krippin Virus. Notably, the film’s original theatrical cut concluded with Neville’s demise, complicating his return in the upcoming sequel.
When I Am Legend 2 was officially announced, screenwriter Akiva Goldsman revealed that the storyline would lean into the alternative ending from the first film, wherein Neville survives after realizing that the Darkseeker creatures attacked his home due to his capture of an alpha’s mate. This critical revelation changes the dynamics of the sequel, moving beyond the originally perceived mindlessness of these creatures. Although the film’s trajectory has shifted, Goldsman’s original idea differed significantly.
A Shift from Prequel to Sequel
Screenwriter’s Original Vision for a Prequel
Prior to the current direction, Smith disclosed that Goldsman had considered developing a prequel. While specific details remain scarce, it is reasonable to speculate that this prequel would have delved into the origins of the Krippin Virus outbreak. However, crafting a prequel poses unique challenges. With the passage of 18 years since the film’s debut, reimagining Smith’s character as a younger version from 2007 would be difficult for audiences to accept. In contrast, a sequel adhering to the alternate ending offers a more seamless alignment with the source material by Matheson.
Sequel to the Alternate Ending: A Thrilling Perspective
Expanded Opportunities Await
The conclusion of the first I Am Legend film diverged from Matheson’s narrative, yet the alternate ending resonated more closely with the original text. In the novel, Neville learns that the so-called monsters he’s been exterminating belong to an advanced community. Instead of mindless beasts, the Darkseekers, though not named as such in the book, led to Neville’s capture and trial for his actions. While the film offered Neville a chance to survive, his eventual realization paralleled the book’s insights.
In the literary version, these vampire-like creatures possess their own functioning society, fundamentally altering Neville’s understanding of their motivations. With the decision to move away from a prequel, I Am Legend 2 is poised to expand upon the themes presented in Matheson’s work. Smith noted that Jordan will portray a character leading a new community in Connecticut, distinct from the settlement Neville and Anna aimed for. This premise opens up intriguing narrative possibilities, potentially depicting a community of uninfected humans that challenges Neville’s evolving perspective on the Darkseekers, or possibly even integrating infected characters from the original novel. Overall, the forthcoming sequel appears to promise a more dynamic and compelling storytelling landscape.