Thoughtfully implemented popcorn cruncher

Rating: 7/10 (29 December 2007)

Surprisingly adept action film benefits heavily from Francis Lawrence's keen, at times stunningly fluid direction, powerfully high-concept production, and Will Smith's appealing, improving charisma. The former Fresh Prince and dance-happy, child-friendly rapper continues to buck the norm to further establish and nearly redefine his distinguishable leading man qualities in a performance noteworthy not for it's inherent skill but for the skill inherent inside the actor involving his largest anticipated audience.
Of course it is flawed; whether one wishes to soak in this atmospheric counterpart to 28 Days Later on a completely visceral or metaphorical level, problems within the script halt Zoo York from being fully realized all too often. Without concentrating too hard on some dopey liberties taken and a questionable climax at best, I Am Legend still offers some of the most convincing post-apocalyptic, big budget renderings to date.