Title: The Last of Us
Starring: Pedro Pascal, Bella Ramsey, Nick Offerman
Network (Streaming): HBO Max
Release Date of Most Recent Episode: March 12th, 2023
HBO’s The Last of Us adapts the hit PlayStation game from Naughty Dog into a show that pleases not only fans of the game, but general audiences as well. The Last of Us is the story of Joel Miller, a man who loses his daughter during the outbreak of a fungal infection that causes its victims to start attacking others. Joel (Pedro Pascal) is tasked with transporting Ellie (Bella Ramsey) across the country because she is immune to the virus. The show, which ended last month, presents the post-apocalyptic world as brutal and unforgiving but displays warmth in Joel and Ellie’s growing relationship. As both characters undergo the journey, the viewers undertake a personal voyage as well from connecting with each character and empathizing by placing themselves and their loved ones in Joel and Ellie’s shoes. Both Pascal and Ramsey are great in their respective roles as many scenes showcase true chemistry and lead those watching to fall in love with the characters and their respective personalities. Visually, the show also impresses with amazing makeup for the “clickers,” an advanced type of infected. While the show deviates from the game in some areas, the director and producers show an infectious love and respect for the source material; some players of the game may have qualms with these changes, but most of them made sense to the adaptation and the nature of a realistic adaptation compared to a game. The show may have even been heightened if some episodes in the show would have been longer; the last few episodes towards the end of the season were some of the shortest which may feel rushed to some or create a longing for players of the original game as other scenes could have been implemented. Even with this being said, there are few complaints to be had. Like nearly every other zombie movie or show, the trope of not referring to the infected as “zombies” is present here. However, it is not as annoying due to the uniqueness of the zombie virus being a fungal infection which creates a terrifying, yet authentic possibility. The true endearing characteristic of HBO’s adaptation of The Last of Us is that it does not gatekeep plot points for only those who have played the game. While those who have played the original form may have more insight into future events that will be explored in further seasons and include easter eggs, the show is also created in a format that non-gamers can join and experience an equally impactful story.
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