Somewhat truer adaptation of the two previous adaptations of "I Am Legend".

Rating: 8/10 (25 June 2008)

Now in the year 2012, three years after the horrifying plague that was unintentional release by a Scientist (Uncredited Cameo by Oscar-Winner:Emma Thompson), who was trying to find a cure for cancer. Now in the empty streets of New York City, U.S. Army virologist Lieutenant Colonel Robert Neville (Will Smith) is living all alone in the city with his dog Samantha. Who is still trying to find a cure for the virus, there's 9 percent of the whole world that infected humans turned into violent, strong blood-thirsty creatures. Which they are also sensitive to the daylight that could kill them. Since 90 percent of the world, the population is finish. But these creatures also have an mind of their own, since they want to kill Neville as well.
Directed by Francis Lawrence (Constantine) made an entertaining science-fiction drama with moments of suspense and horror. This version takes the premise (Based on a novel by Richard Matheson) more seriously comparing to the previous adaptations like "The Last Man on Earth" or "The Omega Man". Smith is truly good in his role, which makes this movie worth watching. Even the dog is great. Director Lawrence makes effective use of making New York City isolated by adding clever used of CGI effects. It's also much better than the director's first feature. Perphas the worst CGI effects in the film are the looks of the creatures are not very effective (They look phony at times sadly). But it's a good thing, it is not a total turn-off in my opinion.
The single disc edition, DVD has an sharp anamorphic Widescreen (2.35:1) transfer and an strong Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound. DVD only special features are the four short animated features. The feature clever use of Widescreen will be lost on DVD, especially the wide NYC shots. Lawrence's second feature is a terrific 2/3 of a movie but sadly when two human characters shows up to help Neville. It becomes an different picture in someway. This movie might be too religious for some taste as well. There's also two-disc set of "I Am Legend". Which the second disc includes an extended version with a few additional scenes but the biggest change is the different ending. Which it fleshing out the characters of the creatures but also changes the faith of the lead character. I prefer the original theatrical version instead.
"I Am Legend" is not the great film i was hoping to be but overall it is still pretty good as entertainment. Smith's role certainly helps the movie a lot. It certainly looked terrific at the big screen. Screenplay by Mark Protosevich (The Cell, Poseidon) and Oscar-Winner:Akiva Goldsman (Batman Forever, A Beautiful Mind, I Robot). Goldsman is also one of the producers as well. Super 35. (*** ½/*****).