In a recent turn of events, Hollywood actor Will Smith has offered an optimistic update on the sequel to I Am Legend. As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, Smith attended the third Red Sea International Film Festival held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where he revealed details about the much-anticipated project, confirming that it’s still in development with actor, Michael B. Jordan, in tow. This news comes after months of relative silence following Smith’s controversial moment last year.
The original film was released in 2007, which was a commercial success, grossing $585 million worldwide. Smith, known for his dynamic roles in various film genres, shared his excitement about the upcoming project. He disclosed the script has been received and a call with co-star Jordan was scheduled to discuss the sequel further. This development comes after the sequel was first announced in spring 2022, with Akiva Goldsman, the writer and producer of the first film, returning to the project.
Addressing the narrative continuation from the first film, Smith explained that the sequel would adopt the alternative ending from the DVD version, where his character, Robert Neville, survives. This creative choice diverges from the theatrical release, where Neville dies, aligning more closely with the source material by Richard Matheson.
The actor, while discussing the upcoming project, also reflected on his personal journey and the lessons learned from recent adversities, including the controversial incident at the 2022 Academy Awards. Smith emphasized the importance of self-awareness and not seeking validation from external sources. He shared his commitment to personal growth and spreading positivity through his work.
In addition to I Am Legend 2, Smith mentioned other projects, including Bad Boys 4, highlighting his prominence in the film industry. He also expressed a desire to mentor upcoming filmmakers, claiming the importance of global storytelling and cultural exchange.
Smith’s presence at the Red Sea International Film Festival wasn’t just about promoting upcoming projects. He engaged with the audience, discussing various aspects of filmmaking and his career. His interactions with fans were enthusiastic, marked by high-fives, selfies, and an overall warm reception.
Going back to the topic of I Am Legend 2. The sequel to the nth live-action adaptation of the original source material, is generating significant interest, given the success of the original film and the involvement of A-listers such as Smith and Jordan. The production is set to explore a world a few decades later than the first, drawing inspiration from recent hits like HBO’s The Last of Us. The sequel aims to delve deeper into the post-apocalyptic world, examining the beauty of nature reclaiming urban landscapes.
This announcement marks a significant step in the development of I Am Legend 2, promising a fresh perspective on the well-known story. With Smith’s involvement and the creative direction the sequel is taking, fans of the original film and the sci-fi genre have much to look forward to.
As Smith embarks on this new chapter in his career, his focus on personal growth and sharing experiences with a new generation of filmmakers adds another layer of anticipation for what lies ahead in this iconic franchise.
