I Am Legend is set in a starkly empty future Manhattan. Much thought and work has gone into the art direction in creating it’s unique look and atmosphere. They’re the films greatest strengths. Stunning glimpses of what a city could look like when a plague wipes out human life are around every corner - forests of weeds thrusting through city pavement, disrepair and emptiness in contrast with what were once bustling streets with the grand, optimistic architecture that makes New York unique. And for the purposes of the story, the centre of the universe.
Three years earlier, doctors came up with a cure for cancer. It worked but unleashed another more virulent plague, which may have killed 90% of the world’s population.
As a scientist, he continues to search for a cure. As a man, he’s searching for a human companionship, as an animal, food and safety.
Store dummies he’s placed around his neighbourhood offer him the promise of connection, an eccentric way of keeping isolation at bay. He seems to believe they are interacting with him in poignant, heartbreaking moments where the film shows us real emotion.
Smith’s on perpetual high alert, even though he seems to be alone. We are so there with him, waiting for the slightest sound and shadow. The waiting is the story.
Food stores are running low in Smith’s fortress home, but he is settled into a pleasant routine. He ends each day drawing the blinds and heavy wooden shutters to hide himself from the unknown outside.
He’s developed a silent language with Sam, his loyal dog. Their survival depends on teamwork and their chemistry is lovely – better than most humans in the movies these days for sure, and I am not pointing the finger at Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts.
Lions, deer and who knows what else are roaming the streets of New York. They’re immune to the airborne virus, but not the physical/contact element. These crazed animals are hungry, and so is Smith. Much of his day is spent hunting them for food but he never makes a hit.
Victims of the man made virus lurk in the dark, people who have mutated into super strong, hairless and extremely angry predators. They are powerless against light, pretty standard horror film stuff.
There is nothing new here; the monsters look about the same as any others – white, pasty, big teeth in need of some care, sinewy muscles. All that tells me is that they may be sports enthusiasts who do all their running indoors and are subject to brutal mood swings.
Aside from the brilliant art direction, Smith’s resonant performance and that cute dog, I Am Legend disappoints. There is little innovation, make that none, and as is so common in film this season, the ending opts out of sense and excitement.
Think The Village with an armed guard.
Directed by Francis Lawrence
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