The Great Success of 'The Last of Us'
Video game adaptations are notably brain-dead. But the brains behind HBO’s infectious zombie series invites action and drama — and cures the infection of lifeless tv.
Fans of the critically acclaimed video game The Last of Us have been eagerly anticipating the upcoming TV series adaptation, and with good reason. The show, already 8 episodes in with the 9th and final episode of the first season coming March 12th, is a thrilling journey into the post-apocalyptic world of the game, filled with danger, drama, and heart-wrenching emotion.
For those unfamiliar with the game, The Last of Us takes place in a world ravaged by a deadly fungus that turns its hosts into zombie-like creatures called infected. The story follows Joel, a hardened survivor, and Ellie, a young girl with a mysterious immunity to the fungus, as they traverse this dangerous world, facing both infected and other survivors who will do anything to stay alive.
The TV series extends the game's story, exploring new characters and expanding on the relationships between Joel and Ellie.
Pedro Pascal, known for one of his roles as Din Djarin in The Mandalorian, plays Joel, while Bella Ramsey, best known for her role as Lyanna Mormont in Game of Thrones, takes on the role of Ellie. The two actors brought a new depth and complexity to the roles, making them more than just video game characters.
Pedro Pascal delivers a nuanced and deeply affecting portrayal of Joel, capturing the character's complex emotions and inner turmoil. Bella Ramsey is equally impressive as Ellie, bringing a fierce determination and vulnerability to the character that makes her instantly likable. The series does an excellent job of exploring the complex relationship between Joel and Ellie, and illustrates perfectly how their relationship is the heart of the story, with their bond tested in ways that will leave viewers on the edge of their seats.
One of the most exciting aspects of the TV series is the involvement of the game's creator, Neil Druckmann, as a writer and executive producer. This ensures that the series will stay true to the original vision of the game, while also allowing for new creative ideas to be explored.
The Last of Us has been praised for its stunning visuals, masterful storytelling, and exceptional performances. The series is a testament to the incredible storytelling potential of video games, and it successfully translates the game's immersive world and characters to the screen. The series expertly weaves together themes of loss, grief, and redemption, creating a rich and emotional narrative that is both compelling and thought-provoking. The show-runners have gone to great lengths to create a post-apocalyptic world that is both realistic and engaging. The production design, costumes, and visual effects are all top-notch, and they create an immersive and believable world that draws viewers in.
The Last of Us is one of the most watched TV shows as of right now, with a 96% on Rotten Tomatoes. Episode two brought in 5.7 million viewers, while episode eight reached an impressive 8.1 million viewers. This marked a 74% increase from the viewership of the season premiere.
The Last of Us TV series has shown so far to be a groundbreaking and thrilling ride for both fans of the game and newcomers to the world. With a talented cast, a dedicated creative team, and a story that is both heart-wrenching and action-packed, this show is one of the must-watch events of the year. So get ready to immerse yourself in a world where survival is everything, and trust is hard to come by in the first season of The Last of Us.
