The Last of Us

Imagine a world where a parasitic fungus threatens humanity, evolving to switch hosts from ants to humans as temperatures rise. This is the premise of The Last of Us, a post-apocalyptic TV drama with a steady and meditative pace that will keep you on the edge of your seat. While its zombie skeleton may remind you of The Walking Dead, its heart is more in line with Station Eleven.

The Last of Us began as a video game and its adaptation to screen was handled by Neil Druckmann and Craig Mazin, the creator of the game and showrunner of Chernobyl, respectively. The series remains faithful to the game, offering recognisable scenes and locations, and showcasing its action-packed and emotional storytelling. Those unfamiliar with the game will have no trouble entering this world, with the series starting with a hypothetical scenario of the fungus discussed on a talk show in the 1960s before moving to 2003 and the aftermath.

The show features Pedro Pascal as Joel, a Texan construction worker in his 50s who meets Bella Ramsey's Ellie, a 14-year-old girl he must transport across the ravaged US. The Last of Us depicts a violent and maudlin world where survival is key and the quick-moving, fungus-dangling infected are just one of the many horrors. However, amidst the ruins, it still manages to find humanity and make the hardship worth it. Ramsey's performance as Ellie is phenomenal, and her relationship with Pascal's Joel is both heartwarming and heartbreaking.

While the show may leave Joel and Ellie behind for some episodes, it still manages to captivate with its detours into the wider world. One of the finest episodes of TV this year, the third episode focuses on a survivalist named Bill (played by Nick Offerman) and his relationship with an artist named Frank (played by Murray Bartlett). The show's ability to find beauty in the ruins and resist a sentimental approach is a testament to its real achievement.

The Last of Us is a masterful exploration of human nature in a world gone mad. It raises profound questions about what it means to be alive, to be human, and what happens to those qualities when the world is stripped of everything that makes us civilized. The show is a remarkable achievement, both as a post-apocalyptic thriller and as a work of art.

One of the most impressive aspects of The Last of Us is its attention to detail. From the way the fungus-infected look and move to the brutal violence that occurs in every episode, everything about the show feels carefully considered and expertly executed. The production design is fantastic, with the crumbling, overgrown buildings of a world long lost, and the harsh beauty of nature reclaiming the land.

The acting is also exceptional, with Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey delivering standout performances. Pascal brings depth and nuance to his portrayal of Joel, a man who has lost everything and is struggling to hold on to his humanity. Ramsey, meanwhile, is a revelation as Ellie, a young girl who is forced to grow up too fast in a world that has no time for childhood.

The Last of Us is an intense, thought-provoking series that explores the best and worst of humanity in equal measure. It is a must-watch for fans of post-apocalyptic fiction, as well as anyone who appreciates great storytelling and exceptional performances.

The Last of Us is a testament to the power of storytelling in the post-apocalyptic genre. It weaves together elements of horror, action, and drama, creating a world that is simultaneously terrifying and captivating. The series raises interesting questions about the human condition and how we react in the face of disaster.

One of the most fascinating aspects of The Last of Us is the way it portrays humanity. Even in the darkest of times, there are glimmers of hope and moments of kindness. Characters who initially seem like villains are revealed to have complex motivations and backstories, adding depth to the narrative. It is a reminder that even in the worst of circumstances, people can still find ways to connect and care for one another.

The series also offers a unique take on the zombie genre. The infected in The Last of Us are not mindless drones; they are still human, but with a parasitic fungus controlling their actions. This adds a layer of horror to the story, as the characters are faced with the reality that these creatures were once like them. It also creates a sense of urgency, as the fungus is constantly evolving and finding new hosts.

The Last of Us is not without its flaws, however. Some of the plot points feel predictable and the pacing can be slow at times. The violence can also be excessive, which may be off-putting to some viewers. However, the strength of the characters and the world-building make up for these shortcomings.

Overall, The Last of Us is a must-watch for fans of the post-apocalyptic genre. It is a well-crafted series with strong performances and an engrossing story. It also offers a unique take on the zombie genre that is both terrifying and thought-provoking.