I Am Legend 2 Will Smith Exclusive interview Red Sea Film Festival
In the heart of the Red Sea Film Festival in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Hollywood superstar Will Smith dropped a bombshell that sent shockwaves of excitement through the entertainment world. The iconic actor revealed that the long-anticipated sequel to his 2007 post-apocalyptic blockbuster, “I Am Legend,” is now in the final stages of scripting. What’s more, Smith spilled the beans about a unique twist in the sequel’s storyline, drawing inspiration from the alternate ending featured in the DVD release of the original film.
Will Smith, a prominent figure in the film industry, made this revelation during an exclusive interview at the Red Sea International Film Festival. The festival, now in its third edition, served as the perfect platform for Smith to share the latest updates on the project. As the news broke, fans around the globe eagerly awaited more details about the upcoming cinematic venture.
Behind the Scenes of ‘I Am Legend 2’ Scripting
During the interview, Will Smith shared insights into the scripting process for ‘I Am Legend 2.’ Expressing his excitement, he disclosed, “I have a call with Michael B. Jordan tomorrow. We’re really close, the script just came in.” This revelation not only affirmed the close collaboration between the two talented actors but also hinted at the imminent progress toward production.
What sets ‘I Am Legend 2’ apart is its decision to draw inspiration from the alternate ending presented in the 2007 film’s DVD release. In the original theatrical version, Smith’s character meets a tragic end, but the DVD provided a different narrative where the protagonist survives. The upcoming sequel will adhere to the mythology of the DVD version, adding an intriguing layer for fans of the franchise.
The Evolution of ‘I Am Legend’ Franchise
To understand the significance of this sequel, let’s take a brief journey through the evolution of the ‘I Am Legend’ franchise. The project initially began in 1994, with Warner Bros. laying the groundwork. However, due to budgetary concerns, the production faced delays. It wasn’t until 2006 that the project gained momentum in New York City, incorporating a remarkable $5 million scene at the Brooklyn Bridge.
The movie, released in 2007, proved to be a colossal success, earning $585.4 million worldwide. The film’s unique take on a post-apocalyptic New York City, with Will Smith navigating through a world filled with zombies, left an indelible mark on audiences.
Will Smith's Exclusive Interview at Red Sea IFF 2023
In an exclusive interview at the Red Sea International Film Festival, Will Smith provided a glimpse into his personal journey in the entertainment industry. Reflecting on his career choices, Smith shared that acting had always been his calling. A pivotal moment came when his mother pointed out a fascinating detail from his childhood photos – he was always looking directly at the camera. This innate connection with the camera signaled a deep-seated desire to be in front of it.
Smith delved into his early ambitions, revealing that, had he not pursued acting, he might have become a scientist. Proficient in math and science, Smith envisioned a future in which he explored the world through a scientific lens. However, the allure of rap music in the late ’70s, particularly with the release of Rapper’s Delight, shifted his trajectory.
Will Smith on "Pursuit of Happyness" Impact
Among the various milestones in Will Smith’s career, “Pursuit of Happyness” stands out as a transformative experience. Smith shared poignant moments from the film, including walking through the streets with the real-life inspiration, Chris Gardner. Smith’s emotional connection to the role was evident as he described shooting a scene with his on-screen son in a subway bathroom, a location Gardner had once spent the night with his real son.
The impact of “Pursuit of Happyness” on Smith’s life and career was profound, marking a period of growth as an actor. The film became a vehicle for self-exploration, allowing Smith to delve into the complexities of the human experience.
Akiva Goldsman’s Role in ‘I Am Legend 2’
Integral to the success of the original “I Am Legend” and now poised to play a crucial role in the sequel is Akiva Goldsman. An Oscar-winning writer, Goldsman adapted Richard Matheson’s 1954 novel for the 2007 movie and is set to pen the follow-up. Beyond his writing prowess, Goldsman will also serve as a producer alongside Michael B. Jordan, Elizabeth Raposo, and Jon Mone from Westbrook Studios.
As the mastermind behind the narrative, Goldsman’s involvement adds a layer of assurance for fans invested in the ‘I Am Legend’ universe. His proven track record in translating literary works to the big screen ensures that the sequel remains true to the essence of the original.
In conclusion, the announcement of ‘I Am Legend 2’ has ignited a wave of anticipation among fans and the film industry alike. Will Smith and Michael B. Jordan’s collaboration, coupled with the unique approach to storytelling, promises a cinematic experience that will captivate audiences globally. As the scripting reaches its final stages and the pieces of the sequel fall into place, the journey to the post-apocalyptic world of ‘I Am Legend’ is set to resume, promising new twists and turns that will leave a lasting impact on cinema. Stay tuned for further updates on this much-awaited sequel that brings together the past, present, and future of the ‘I Am Legend’ franchise.
