As of now, I Am Legend 2: Patient Zero (2024) has not been officially confirmed or released, though there have been reports suggesting the possibility of a sequel to the 2007 post-apocalyptic thriller I Am Legend, which starred Will Smith as Robert Neville, the last known human survivor in a world overrun by genetically engineered mutants known as “Darkseekers.”

However, some developments have suggested that the sequel could potentially happen, especially with the success of the original film and interest from both audiences and filmmakers in expanding the story. Given that the project is in the early stages, here is a speculative review based on what I Am Legend 2: Patient Zero might explore in 2024:

Speculative Plot for I Am Legend 2: Patient Zero (2024)

1. Exploring the Origins of the Virus
   • I Am Legend 2: Patient Zero could take the opportunity to dive deeper into the origins of the virus that turned much of the human population into the deadly, mutated Darkseekers. The film may explore the development and accidental release of the virus, focusing on its early stages. The “Patient Zero” could refer to the original person who was infected or the patient that started the global pandemic.
2. The Return of Will Smith’s Character
   • There have been discussions about Will Smith returning to the role of Robert Neville, though the film’s plot would need to account for his character’s apparent death in the original film. One possibility is that the sequel could follow an alternate timeline, possibly revisiting Neville’s survival or a flashback-focused storyline. Alternatively, the movie could explore the consequences of Neville’s work (his cure for the virus), potentially having more focus on the people who follow in his footsteps.
3. A New Generation of Survivors
   • Given that the world in I Am Legend was decimated, Patient Zero could introduce new survivors or new characters who are attempting to rebuild society. These survivors could be dealing with the aftermath of Neville’s cure and the global devastation, attempting to repopulate or understand how to combat the lingering effects of the virus.
4. Focus on the Mutation of the Virus
   • If the sequel picks up from the original film’s events, the mutated virus could be evolving. New types of Darkseekers could emerge, or the virus might continue to mutate, offering a fresh set of challenges for the remaining humans. It could explore the biological science behind these mutations and whether any new cures are possible.
5. Expanding the World
   • One exciting direction for I Am Legend 2 could be an expansion of the post-apocalyptic world beyond New York City. The film could explore how other parts of the world were impacted by the virus, how other countries responded, and whether any parts of the world remain untouched. This global perspective could offer a broader canvas for action and drama, with survivors from different walks of life coming together to confront the virus and its aftereffects.
6. Moral and Ethical Dilemmas
   • A sequel would also likely delve into the complex moral and ethical questions raised by Neville’s actions in the first film. The film could focus on the broader implications of the cure he developed and whether it was the right solution. The ethical consequences of Neville’s experiments and actions could be a central theme, especially as new survivors grapple with the legacy of his choices.

Expected Tone and Direction

I Am Legend 2: Patient Zero is directed by someone with a similar vision to the original (possibly even with Francis Lawrence returning), it is likely to retain the dark, survival-driven tone of the first film. There may be a stronger focus on the horror and psychological thriller elements, particularly exploring the emotional toll that living in a decimated world would have on the survivors. Themes of loneliness, the loss of humanity, and the tension between survival and morality could continue to dominate the narrative.

• Visuals and Action: Expect intense, suspenseful action sequences, especially involving the Darkseekers and other threats that could arise. The film might explore larger-scale confrontations and survival tactics, while also maintaining the intimate, isolated feeling that characterized the first film.
• Character Dynamics: With new characters introduced and the potential for Will Smith’s character to return, interpersonal dynamics and the psychological aspects of survival will likely be key to the narrative. Expect deep character development as the survivors face both external dangers and internal struggles.

Conclusion

While much about I Am Legend 2: Patient Zero is speculative, the potential for an engaging, thrilling sequel is high. The film could expand on the rich world introduced in the original I Am Legend, offering both a deeper exploration of the virus and the moral dilemmas that come with trying to rebuild society. Whether Will Smith returns or the focus shifts to new characters, the sequel could bring fresh challenges while still paying homage to the haunting atmosphere of the first film.

Anticipation Rating: 8/10