“The last of Us” (HBO Max) TV show
The “Last of Us” is a TV show based on the hit Playstation (and soon on PC) video game series developed by Naughty Dog and released in 2013. Unlike previous video game adaptations, this one seems to be the real deal. While I have seen only the first episode, it looks like the dream adaptation players wanted to see.
The writing and acting in the video game were top notches, and the first 80 minutes of the television version are even better. The show avoids having cheap gore and jump scares taking center stage and instead gives the actors plenty of emotions to work with. This is not the “Walking dead” spin-off, although it goes thru some of the same themes.
The story follows two characters, Joel and Ellie, as they make their way across the United States, trying to survive against all odds. From the infected to what you expect from ragtag gangs of humans living in a lawless land, the protagonists will have a hell of a nightmare to go thru. The show producers already mentioned in interviews that even if you played the game, there would be many surprises.
The visual effects look stunning, creating a believable world for viewers to explore alongside Joel and Ellie’s journey. On top of that, the soundtrack helps bring out strong emotions and set the tone throughout the first episode.
In video game format, “Last of Us” was widely praised for its gripping narrative and intense experiences that draw you into the world it creates. Its story focuses on love, loss, trust, hope, and courage while exploring how people cope with tragedy during difficult times. The television series will probably double down on emotion, taking the best of the original material and replacing the player interactions with additional plot twists and story elements.
Go see it!