Based on the 2013 video game by Naughty Dog,The Last of Usfollows two survivors in a post-apocalyptic world where humans are being infected by a parasitic fungus. The fungus of the series is eerily based on the real life cordyceps and is a mutated version of it which is a result of climate change. Following its release on HBO,The Last of Ustook over many headlines, with the series being applauded for its respect to the source material.
When looking at HBO’s history at Golden Globes, the streaming service has introduced many shows that have been nominated for the Golden Globes and have won many awards in the show. In 2023, HBO’sThe White Lotus,Euphoria,andHouse of the Dragonallowed the company to benominated for 14 awards, out of which four were won.The Last of Ushas already surpassed many viewers' expectations and thus, might have established itself as a front-runner for the next Golden Globes.
Superb Cinematography
From the very episode itself,The Last of Usbroke many headlines simply because it was claimed to be the “Best Video Game Adaptation of All Time”. While there have been numerous other videogame adaptations likeUnchartedfeaturing Tom HollandandTomb Raider, none have achieved the praise and positive feedback likeThe Last of Us. One key reason is the series' close links to the video game.The cinematography of the serieshas not only emphasized the game’s dark color tones, but it has also captured the camera angles visible in the game, allowing the viewer to engage in a hybrid experience of immersive and spectator.
Interestingly, the series brings in a perfect balance of video game storytelling. While ensuring the TV show resembles the video game’s format as much as possible, in terms of visuals, the series has also added the much necessary layer of storytelling in the form of TV shows. In fact, if one were to pause the TV show then and there, they might be able to capture beautiful mis-en-scenes which has so much to tell about the story itself. The ability to capture the nuances of a dark story and allow the setting to visually represent the fear, trauma and pain of the people within the story is a hard task, but the creators ofThe Last of Ushave brilliantly captured it.
Related:The Last of Us: How the Show Is Changing Video Game Adaptations
Perfect Performances
AsDean Takahashi points out, Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey may have “looked nothing like the “real” Joel and Ellie”, but they are the best people to portray the characters, and their performances have proven that they arethe perfect Ellieand Joel for the show. Bella Ramsey has already proven her ability to take over challenging roles by winning the audience through her portrayal of Lyanna Mormont inGame of Thronesand JaneGrey inBecoming Elizabeth. However, Ellie required her to put in so much physical and mental effort, and it is safe to say that Ramsey was successful as she was able to perfectly embody the sassiness, the pain, the fear and independent nature of Ellie.
Pedro Pascal is already a well-known actor. So, when he took over the role of Joel and proved his ability to portray a father-figure and a fighter, he went on to become everyone’sfavorite “internet daddy”. The growing bond between Joel and Ellie is so beautifully performed by these two characters that it comes off as the most warming element in a story of life and death. With all these efforts and praises, it will be no shocker if Ramsey and Pascal were nominated for the upcoming Golden Globes. Additionally, ifThe Last of Usis to be nominated for Golden Globes awards, these two actors will have a lot to do with these nominations because if it weren’t for Ramsey and Pascal, the series would not have garnered such rave feedback.
The Last of Usalso brings in some brilliant minor characters whose presence, even after their exit from the show, is very much prevalent. One such character is Joel’s daughter, Sarah. Nico Parker does an amazing job in giving life to Sarah that even if she was only present in the first episode, she leaves a lasting impact on the viewers and the storyline.
Related:How The Last Of Us Gives a Fresh New Take on the Zombie Apocalypse
Reflection on Important Social Issues
Another key reason whyThe Last of Uscould be a front-runner for the upcoming Golden Globes is the storyline and the story’s reflection on society. For those of us who went through a global pandemic, which also resulted in certain countries' corrupt nature being exposed, apandemic caused by a fungusseems very much possible. The way in whichThe Last of Usportrays its pandemic might remind the viewers of the fear, stress and even trauma caused by COVID-19, in turn, making the show relatable.
What’s more is the series' capturing of the authoritarian nature of the state. The state’s resorting to killing innocent civilians, those who were not affected, might not come as a surprise to viewers. In fact, this political commentary, when analyzed closely, delves deep into a pandemic that already exists; political corruption.
The story also digs out the decreasing humanity of the people. Foe example, Kathleen’s (Melanie Lynskey) thirst for revenge results in her community’s safety being jeopardized. She seems to be a foil to both Marlene (Merle Dandridge) and Tess (Anna Torv).
The capturing of mental health during a crisis is yet another key element of the show. Portraying mental health issues on TV is not easy and many shows have failed to capture the depth of these issues. However,Joel’s PTSDand panic attacks are one rare instance where mental health issues have been given the right portrayal it requires.
The Last of Usalso reminds the viewers of the beauty of human bonds. Even thoughboth Joel and Elliewere skeptical of each other and came off as tough independent people, as the story progresses, they illustrate how much people need each other. In fact, their bond acts as a reminder of the need for human connection during a global crisis. The same goes forthe story of Bill (Nick Offerman) and Frank(Murray Bartlett).
These reminders are also the reason why the viewers are able to connect with the characters and relate to the story. WhileThe Last of Usmight come off as an exaggerated version of COVID 19, it also suggests that nothing (whether bad or good) is impossible and that is yet another reason why the show might be able to secure some Golden Globes awards in the future.
