THE OMEGA MAN (Theatrical Release USA 1971)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 3.7|5.0 Starsììì

The Omega Man originates from Richard Matheson’s 1954 novel I Am Legend and spawned a 2007 film treatment with Will Smith, I Am Legend. It’s a terrific entertainment choice if one is studying the actor, Charlton Heston, as it showcases his abilities well. The make-up for the Zombies, by today’s standards, is cheesy and the director/screen writer failed to plumb the character development of the movies’ main role players.

Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia

Storyline

A survivor of biological warfare finds a vaccine that works.

Additional Thanks

Thank you to Director Boris Sagal for directing effort. Thank you to Producer Walter Seltzer for making the film possible. Additional characters/cast include: Neville (Charlton Heston), Matthias (Anthony Zerbe), Lisa (Rosalind Cash), Dutch (Paul Koslo), Richie (Eric Laneuville), Zachary (Lincoln Kilpatrick), Little Girl (Jill Giraldi), Woman in Cemetery Crypt (Anna Aries), Tommy (Brian Tochi), and Family Member (DeVeren Bookwalter).

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Yes. For its times, it is well done, but dated. It has historical significance as it actively reflects costuming and stage settings of the 1970s. The second remake, I Am Legend, works at higher entertainment levels. Kudos to Director Boris Sagal. This film showcases his directing abilities.

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers