Fans have been waiting for an update on HBO’sThe Last of Us, ever since it wrapped up production as the audience has by far only seen a glimpse ofPedro Pascalas Joel andBella Ramseyas Ellie. Dubbed the biggest production in Canadian history, the series is based on Naughty Dog’s massively popular video game with a dedicated fan base andhad been long in making until HBO picked it up. Recently, Ramsey spoke toSheKnowsabout the tedious task of bringing the beloved story to life and how it’s going to explore “different avenues” from the games.
Released in 2013The Last of Usgame is set in a post-apocalyptical world where the US is ravaged by Cordyceps brain infection. It follows Joel, a smuggler who is tasked to escort a teenager Ellie out of a quarantine zone. Ellie is immune to the infection and can be helpful in creating a vaccine.
Speaking of the expectations that come with leading a well-known franchise, Ramsey said, “I think people are going to love [the adaptation]. I know there were people worried about it, of course. When something is so precious to you as a viewer — as a gamer — of course, you’re going to be worried about the adaptation. But honestly, I think people are going to love it." She further spoke about the show’s narrative that follows a similar emotional arc as the games, however, the show will also see some new directions that will surprise even long-time fans. She said,
“It very much follows the emotional beats of the game, and it’s very respectful of the game and honors the game. But [the live-action series adaptation] brings a new life into it. It explores different avenues that weren’t explored so much in the game.”
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Sony’s previous video game-based feature filmUnchartedstarringTom Hollandas Nathan Drake andMark Wahlbergas Victor Sullivan had failed to make a mark with the audience. The movie grossed $401.7 million worldwide on a budget of $120 million and was widely criticized by fans. However, Ramsey believes that fans would like what they see when the show arrives, “I do think people are going to love it. I hope they do. It was so much fun to make, such an experience. I hope that [audiences] feel that experience too when they come on the adventure with us.”
Along with Pascal and Ramsey, the series also featuresGabriel Lunaas Tommy, Joel’s younger brother and a former soldier. The game’s original voice artistsTroy Baker,Ashley Johnson, andJeffrey Piercewill also appear. The series is developed byCraig MazinandNeil Druckmann,and produced by Sony Pictures, PlayStation Productions, Naughty Dog, The Mighty Mint, and Word Games.
The Last of UsSeason 1 is expected to debut in early 2023. Check out last year’s news about the dialogue planned for the series:
