Review: I Am Legend (2007)
The zombie film I Am Legend offers two distinct endings: one lasting around 1 hour and 20 minutes, and an alternate ending version extending close to 1 hour and 30 minutes. In this review, I’ll cover both endings individually.
Story Overview
I Am Legend presents a post-apocalyptic sci-fi scenario where a virus has wiped out most of humanity, transforming survivors into aggressive, flesh-eating creatures. Unlike typical zombie films, this movie uniquely identifies the virus creator as Dr. Alice Krippin. After three years, these “zombies” evolved basic intelligence and social instincts akin to animals, demonstrating the capability to hunt strategically but lacking the full humanity they once possessed.
These creatures utilize infected dogs to attack the protagonist, Dr. Robert Neville, ultimately leading to the tragic death of his canine companion. Their main weakness is sensitivity to sunlight, forcing them into nocturnal activity.
Most zombie films feature slow-moving undead, with few exceptions like 28 Days Later or 28 Weeks Later, where the rapid, aggressive zombies heighten the intensity. While I Am Legend generates decent suspense, the narrative pacing feels uneven, reserving most of the action and thrills for the final act. The movie prioritizes portraying Neville’s isolation rather than constant scares, aligning closely with its thematic focus—”I Am Legend.”
Significantly, Neville’s immunity to the virus explains his decision to remain isolated for three years to research a cure. The film poignantly portrays Neville’s profound loneliness, with only his dog for companionship. Consequently, viewers deeply empathize with his emotional devastation after losing his pet, the last remaining connection to his past family life.
Ending 1 (Theatrical Version)
This ending is somewhat controversial due to its rushed explanations and inconsistencies. Neville discovers the infected have regained some human cognitive functions only when it’s too late. Ultimately, Neville sacrifices himself to save the cure, handing it to Anna and her child, who escape to a survivor’s colony.
Many viewers prefer this ending as it aligns closely with the film’s title, yet personally, I found it somewhat unsatisfying due to several plot holes—particularly the questionable defense measures Neville had at home, which seem illogical against intelligent, strategic creatures. The ending feels too convenient and leaves many questions unanswered or hastily addressed.
Ending 2 (Alternate Version)
This alternate ending addresses previous gaps, notably explaining how Neville fell into a trap set by the infected, highlighting their regained human-like intelligence over three years. Neville survives this version by peacefully returning the captured female zombie to her group, acknowledging their evolved humanity. This scenario significantly reduces narrative inconsistencies found in the theatrical version.
Though some viewers find this ending overly optimistic for a post-apocalyptic setting, it provides satisfying closure by addressing key plot issues. It positions Neville not as a doomed hero but as someone who learns coexistence is possible, offering a hopeful perspective after humanity’s collapse.
Conclusion
With an IMDb rating of 7.2, I Am Legend stands out among zombie films for its exploration of loneliness, survival, and moral ambiguity. The dual endings significantly impact viewer perception, sparking debate over narrative consistency and thematic resonance.
While the first ending feels more aligned with the film’s title and traditional expectations, the alternate ending clarifies unresolved narrative threads, though its hopeful conclusion may clash with audience expectations of a grim apocalypse.
Ultimately, preference between endings will vary, highlighting the film’s strength in eliciting thoughtful audience engagement, irrespective of the chosen conclusion.
