Review: The Last of Us

Jessica Wang, Reporter

The Last of Us is a post-apocalyptic television series adapted from the video game version that came out in 2013. The show follows the story of Joel, a resilient survivor, and Ellie, a young girl who may hold the key to saving humanity from a deadly fungal infection that has turned most of the world’s population into infected monsters.

The first season of The Last of Us has a total of nine episodes. The show premiered on January 15 and the last episode aired on March 12. It is currently available on HBO Max.

The show offers a riveting and emotional journey that explores the depths of human nature and the lengths that people will go to survive in a harsh and unforgiving world. The characters are complex and well-developed, and the performances by the cast are exceptional, particularly Pedro Pascal as Joel and Bella Ramsey as Ellie.

The production design and visual effects are also remarkable, creating a bleak world that feels both familiar and terrifying. The action scenes are intense while the quieter moments are just as impactful, providing emotional depth to the story.

One of the show’s greatest strengths is its storytelling. The plot is well-written, with twists and turns that keep the audience engaged and invested in the characters’ fates. The show explores themes of love, loss, and human nature, making it more than just a zombie survival story.

Although the show is very well-made, a drawback it has is its pacing. The first few episodes are slow-paced, with a lot of exposition and previous backstories that may put off some viewers. However, once the show starts to pick up, it becomes a thrilling and engaging ride.

Another potential issue with the show is its faithfulness to the source material. While the show does follow the basic plot of the game, it deviates in some significant ways. Some fans of the game may be disappointed with these changes, but they are necessary to make the story work on the screen.

Overall, The Last of Us is a must-watch for fans of the game and post-apocalyptic fiction. The show boasts exceptional acting, writing, and production values. It captures the spirit of the game while also standing on its own as a compelling story. The show’s flaws are minor compared to its strengths, and it is an excellent addition to HBO’s lineup of prestige dramas.

Rating: 9/10