Overview of "I Am Legend"
"I Am Legend," released in 2007, is a post-apocalyptic science fiction horror film directed by Francis Lawrence. It is based on Richard Matheson's 1954 novel of the same name, which has been adapted into film multiple times. The storyline follows Robert Neville, a scientist who is immune to the virus that has ravaged humanity. As the sole survivor, he battles loneliness, despair, and the monstrous creatures that were once humans.
Plot Summary
The film begins in a deserted New York City, where Robert Neville, played by Will Smith, conducts experiments to find a cure for the virus that has decimated the population. The film unfolds in three acts:
1. Life Before the Outbreak: Flashbacks reveal Neville's life before the pandemic, including his relationship with his family and the chaos that ensued as the virus spread.
2. Survival in Isolation: As the last human in the city, Neville struggles with his day-to-day life, using his military training and scientific knowledge to survive. He scavenges for supplies, hunts for food, and finds solace in his loyal dog, Sam.
3. The Encounter with the Darkseekers: Neville's encounters with the infected, known as Darkseekers, ramp up the tension. His attempts to find a cure lead to confrontations with these creatures, heightening the stakes of his isolation.
Key Themes
"I Am Legend" explores several profound themes that resonate with audiences. Understanding these themes can help students better grasp the film's significance.
Isolation and Loneliness
The film poignantly depicts the effects of isolation on Neville. He grapples with loneliness, showcasing the psychological toll it takes on him. Key points include:
- Psychological Impact: Neville's mental state deteriorates as he loses touch with humanity. His conversations with inanimate objects, such as a mannequin named Fred, illustrate his desperate need for connection.
- Survival Instincts: His isolation forces him to rely solely on himself, emphasizing the primal instinct to survive at all costs.
Hope and Despair
The juxtaposition of hope and despair is a central theme in "I Am Legend."
- Fighting for Survival: Neville's determination to find a cure symbolizes hope amidst despair. He believes that his research will eventually lead to salvation for humanity.
- Moments of Joy: Brief flashbacks of his life before the outbreak serve as reminders of what he has lost, heightening the sense of despair.
Humanity vs. Monstrosity
The film also delves into what it means to be human.
- Transformation of Humans: The Darkseekers, once human, represent the loss of humanity. Their monstrous behavior raises questions about the nature of humanity and what it means to survive.
- Neville's Moral Dilemma: As he interacts with the Darkseekers, Neville faces ethical dilemmas regarding his role as a scientist and his responsibility towards the infected.
Character Analysis
Understanding the characters in "I Am Legend" is crucial for a deeper appreciation of the film.
Robert Neville
- Protagonist: Neville's character is multi-dimensional, showcasing resilience and vulnerability.
- Backstory: His backstory reveals a dedicated scientist who feels responsible for the outbreak due to his involvement in the military's virus research.
Sam
- Symbol of Loyalty: Neville's dog, Sam, is his only companion and serves as a symbol of loyalty and unconditional love.
- Emotional Anchor: The bond between Neville and Sam helps humanize him and provides emotional depth to the narrative.
The Darkseekers
- Antagonists: The Darkseekers are essential to the film's conflict. They represent the threat of losing one's humanity.
- Complexity: The film hints at their complexity, suggesting they were once human beings who underwent a tragic transformation.
Worksheet Questions and Answer Key
Creating a worksheet based on "I Am Legend" can enhance students' understanding of the film. Below are some suggested questions along with their answers.
Comprehension Questions
1. What is the main premise of "I Am Legend"?
- The film follows Robert Neville, the last human survivor in New York City after a viral outbreak turns the rest of humanity into monstrous creatures.
2. How does Neville cope with his loneliness?
- Neville copes with his loneliness by talking to inanimate objects, conducting experiments, and relying on his dog, Sam, for companionship.
3. What are the Darkseekers, and how do they differ from Neville?
- The Darkseekers are infected humans who have transformed into aggressive, vampire-like creatures. They differ from Neville as they have lost their humanity and rationality.
4. What does Neville hope to achieve through his experiments?
- Neville hopes to find a cure for the virus and restore humanity, believing that his immunity can lead to a breakthrough.
5. What role does Sam play in Neville's life?
- Sam serves as Neville's loyal companion, providing emotional support and representing the last connection he has to his former life.
Analysis Questions
1. Discuss the significance of isolation in the film.
- Isolation is a key theme that affects Neville's mental state and survival. It highlights the human need for connection and the psychological strain of being alone.
2. How does the film portray the struggle between hope and despair?
- The film illustrates hope through Neville's relentless pursuit of a cure, while despair is evident in his memories of lost loved ones and the bleakness of his surroundings.
3. What ethical dilemmas does Neville face throughout the film?
- Neville grapples with the morality of his research on the infected and whether it is right to experiment on beings that were once human.
Conclusion
The I am legend movie worksheet answer key serves as a crucial tool for educators and students to explore the film's rich themes, character dynamics, and moral complexities. By engaging with the material, students can enhance their understanding of isolation, humanity, and the innate struggle for survival that defines not only the film but the human experience itself. This film analysis encourages critical thinking and fosters discussions around ethical dilemmas, the psychology of isolation, and the essence of humanity in dire circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary theme explored in 'I Am Legend'?
The primary theme is isolation and the struggle for survival in a post-apocalyptic world.
Who is the main character in 'I Am Legend' and what is his profession?
The main character is Robert Neville, who is a scientist and the last known human in New York City.
What event led to the downfall of humanity in 'I Am Legend'?
A man-made virus intended for cancer treatment mutates and turns humans into aggressive creatures.
How does Robert Neville attempt to find a cure for the virus?
Neville conducts experiments on infected creatures and tests a potential cure on himself.
What role does the dog play in 'I Am Legend'?
The dog, Sam, serves as Neville's companion and represents his last connection to humanity.
What is the significance of the title 'I Am Legend'?
The title reflects Neville's transformation into a legend for his survival and efforts to save humanity, despite being seen as a monster by the infected.
How does the movie portray the concept of hope amidst despair?
The movie shows that even in a desolate world, hope can be found through relationships, memories, and the pursuit of a cure.
