Francis Lawrence, the director of the 2007 post-apocalyptic thrillerI Am Legend, featuring Will Smith, recently divulged his ongoing internal debate regarding the film’s ending. It is uncommon for directors to voice doubts about the creative decisions they’ve made in film adaptations, particularly well after the film has hit the theaters. His introspection not only highlights the intricate challenges of adapting literature to film but also sheds light on the evolving nature of storytelling in cinema.
I Am Legend, adapted from Richard Matheson’s 1954 novel, was notable for its two distinct endings: the theatrical version and an alternate, more closely aligned with the book. Lawrence’s recent comments on theHappy Sad Confusedpodcast reveal his preference for the original ending from Matheson’s novella over the two filmed. He reflected on the pressures of big-budget filmmaking, where taking a more nihilistic approach, as in the novella, seemed too risky despite his personal inclinations. Lawrence shared:
“I prefer the original ending to the two that we have. But the truth is now I would’ve built it to be able to do the ending from the novella, truly just do that story. But with the money being spent, everybody was nervous about doing something so nihilistic. But looking back I feel like everybody went to seeThe Last Man on Earthand enjoyed it for that reason and would’ve still enjoyed [I Am Legend] with the nihilistic ending.”
In a New York City rendered desolate, the film traces the journey of Robert Neville (Smith), the sole human survivor in a world now dominated by creatures resembling vampires. Neville, a virologist, desperately seeks a cure while battling loneliness and the existential dread of being the last man on earth. The theatrical ending, which sees Neville sacrificing himself for the greater good, offers a more conventional hero’s narrative. However, the alternate ending, where Neville realizes that he is viewed as the monster by these creatures, presents a moreintrospective and morally ambiguous conclusion.
Lawrence’s musings about the film’s conclusion go beyond mere artistic preference. They delve into the complexities of adapting a beloved novel, where deviations from the source material can be both necessary for cinematic storytelling and a source of creative tension. This tension is particularly palpable inI Am Legend, where the two endings offer vastly different perspectives on Neville’s role in this post-apocalyptic world.
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I Am Legend 2 Will Consider the Alternate Ending as Canon
I Am Legend
The news of a sequel, with Smith reportedly returning, adds another layer to this narrative. The sequel is said toconsider the alternate ending as canon, potentially steering the story closer to Matheson’s original vision. This decision could not only rectify the deviations of the first film but also explore new thematic depths, honoring both the source material and the unique possibilities of cinematic storytelling.
Lawrence’s reflections highlight a critical aspect of film adaptations: the need to balance respect for the source material with the demands and expectations of a cinematic audience. His candidness in discussing his reservations about the film’s endings underscores the ongoing evolution of a director’s vision and the dynamic nature of storytelling.
The planned sequel offers a unique opportunity to revisit and perhaps even redefine the legacy ofI Am Legend. The film serves as a tribute to Matheson’s enduring narrative, showcasing the cinematic art of transforming and modernizing literary tales for today’s viewers. Watching the sequel unfold, the influence of Lawrence’s past experiences and insights on the original film shaping this new installment in theI Am Legendseries will be captivating.
