I Am Legend is a classic 1950's post apocalyptic horror/science fiction novel about the last survivor of a bacterial pandemic which has turned all those infected into something akin to vampires. It's one of the first examples of modern survival horror and is in the same genre as 28 Days Later.

The book has previously been adapted to the silver screen twice, once as The Last Man on Earth (1964) and again as The Omega Man (but let's not hold that against it).

I recently heard that a new film version was being made and was quite excited. Some early animated teaser trailers also made the approach look mature and sophisticated. Then I heard that Will Smith was cast in the lead role. Now don't get me wrong, Will can act and has been in some good films, however I can't help remembering early films like Men In Black and Wild Wild West and cringing a little. I also don't quite imagine the correct air of gravitas and dispair will be there with Mr Smith as the protagonist. In fact I imagine something quite different...

You may recall that when I, Robot was announced, I 'uncovered' the MIB-style Will Smith I, Robot rap. Well, during another bout of insomnia last night, the same happened for I Am Legend. To be sung to the theme of Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air:

In west Philadelphia, born and raised
On the playground is where I spend most of my days
Chillin' out maxin' relaxin' all cool
And shootin' some B-ball outside of the school
When a couple of guys
They weren't lookin' so good
Eyes were ruby red and their mouths leaking blood
They gave them one little touch
And my homies dropped dead
I did what anybody would -- I said 'Woah!' and I fled!

I went back to my home and my ma was dead too
I shook my head -- Didn't know what to do
Then I looked out the window and it finally dawned
I'm the last man alive at the end of the world--

I AM LEGEND!

I'm the last man on Earth
And I and looking for ladiees!

I AM LEGEND!

I'm the last man on Earth
So we better start making babies!

I AM LEGEND!

I'm the last man on Earth
Hey what do these guys have, rabies?

I AM LEGEND!

I'm the last man on Earth
And --this is driving me crazy...

(Fresh Prince theme tune fade to silence)