I Am Legend: The film that anticipated Covid in New York

The Story of I Am Legend

• Released in 2007, I Am Legend is based on a 1954 novel by American author Richard Matheson.
• The film follows a virus that spreads rapidly through New York and then the world, turning infected people into blood-hungry mutants. These creatures only emerge after dark to feed.
• Three years after the epidemic begins—caused by a new cancer treatment—Dr. Robert Neville, played by Will Smith, appears to be the last healthy human on Earth. This military researcher is mysteriously immune to the virus (pure Hollywood!) and works to find an antidote to save the remaining victims.
• In the meantime, he broadcasts a radio message every evening, hoping someone else will hear it. No luck so far.

New York in I Am Legend

• Whether you love the film or not, one thing is certain: the scenes of an empty New York are stunning. Dr. Neville walks through a Times Square where nature slowly reclaims the city, while Manhattan’s bridges have been destroyed.
• In the film, Dr. Neville lives in the heart of Greenwich Village, just north of Washington Square Park. The house still stands at 11 Washington Square Park North.
• You’ll likely think of Will Smith when you visit the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, a retired aircraft carrier turned aerospace museum. In the film, Will Smith practices golf from the flight deck!
• Interestingly, the film was originally supposed to be shot in Los Angeles, but the production moved it to New York for a more dramatic effect. Filming took 8 months and required closing entire streets in the early morning to capture an empty New York. The images are striking. You can’t help but think of this film when you see photos of New York during the coronavirus crisis.

The I Am Legend Trailer

What Did You Think of the Film?

What’s your favorite scene? What do you think of the film? Share your thoughts in the comments below!