The Last Of Us
Image courtesy of Universal Pictures
Listen to my thoughts and accompanying songs below!
Tracklist!
The timing of the release of The Last Of Us (2023) is not only important but now provides a unique perspective that the game’s original release did not have: the aftermath of a deadly pandemic. However, similar to the show, the true horror of the similarities isn’t the deadly virus. Instead, it is what humans become in the wake of such tragedy.
In an almost eerie parallel between real life and the show, there is the threat of infection. However, much of the true terror comes from those left behind. I believe the show’s darkest points come from people like David, who turns to evil in total lawlessness. Fueled by the desperation of his people, he uses religion to control them and do unspeakable things himself in the name of “God’s will.” Sometimes when we watch fictional media, it is easy to forget that the creator’s real-life experiences inspire everything.
The show follows a lot of the original game word-for-word, shot-for-shot. However, some deviations were clearly inspired by the political climate in the wake of Covid-19. Simple changes caused controversy among those disturbed by diversity and representation in a world where these people exist. I find it comical how quickly people will tell on themselves when a character’s ethnicity or race changes, a FICTIONAL character, mind you. Another change was how the infection was spread, through tendrils inside the infected rather than through spores in the air. I find this interesting because this more direct contact with disease gives new meaning to trusting someone enough to let them close to you. This leads to my favorite change, Bill and Frank’s relationship. Throughout the show, we are introduced to new characters that show how people have responded to the outbreak, and Bill and Frank, as queer characters, can find peace in a world that is literally on fire. Having LGBTQ+ representation that not only serves a clear purpose rather than throw away diversity but as an example of the humanity that is still present in the show is unbelievably crucial in the world right now with the persisting attacks on the LGBTQ+ community.
In all this death and destruction, the only thing humans have left is each other, which is the central theme of this story. Following Joel and Ellie, who have both experienced losses in a very personal way, they then find and connect with each other to find familial love. This reminds us to lean on those we care for in these difficult times. Overall this show comes at a time when people need to be reminded of that more than ever.
