The 2007 sci-fi thriller I Am Legend, based on Richard Matheson's classic novel, has been added to BBC iPlayer, making it free for fans to stream. The film, which also streams on Netflix, HBO Max and NOW, earned around $585 million at the box office and is the third screen adaptation after 1964's The Last Man on Earth and 1971's The Omega Man.
Fan Reactions and Performance Praise
Many viewers regard the film as one of Will Smith's best leading roles. One fan posted: "Will Smith leaves you STUNNED with an astonishing performance. Though not nominated for an Oscar, Smith delivers a career-best performance." Another agreed: "Intensely suspenseful. Well written and superbly acted. There are remarkably few films in which (mostly) one character can successfully carry the film. This is one of them."
A third commenter claimed: "A wonderful film. I can't even imagine another actor for the main role, Will Smith is unbeatable. By the way, I also read the book, the film resembles only the setting, but the story in the film is strangely done better."
Plot and Alternate Ending
The story follows Robert Neville, a scientist and survivor of a man-made plague that transforms humans into mutants. He wanders alone through New York City, calling out for other survivors and works on finding a cure using his own immune blood. An alternate ending was released as a DVD bonus, but versions on iPlayer and Netflix offer the original theatrical cut.
Sequel Rumors
A sequel has long been rumoured. In 2023, it was claimed that a follow-up would see Smith reprise his role and continue from the alternate ending.
