The post-apocalyptic genre has been a staple in popular culture for decades, with countless books, movies, and TV shows exploring the aftermath of a world-changing event. However, few have been able to capture the heart and soul of this genre quite like The Last of Us, a new series based on the critically acclaimed PlayStation video game of the same name. The series premiered on Jan. 15 on HBO Max and has quickly become one of the most talked-about shows of the year. With nine episodes, each approximately an hour long, The Last of Us takes viewers on an emotional journey through a world decimated by a global pandemic caused by the Cordyceps fungus. The series explores the themes of love, loss, and survival as two characters, Joel and Ellie, navigate this dangerous world filled with violent monsters.

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According to the executive producer of the series, viewers can expect more gut-wrenching scenes to come. In an interview with TVLine, Mazin teased that the show will delve into Joel’s past, providing a deeper understanding of the character and the events that have shaped him. The show’s previous episode had already left many viewers in tears with its poignant story, but Craig Mazin promises that there is still more heartbreak to come. He emphasizes that Pedro Pascal’s portrayal of Joel captures the character’s soul, vulnerability, and humanity, especially in moments when Joel is alone.

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" I don’t think we’re going to go backwards at length like that, but Joel’s past is what informs his future. There’s a particular moment I’m thinking of that also just [hits] me so hard… Pedro Pascal’s portrayal of Joel has so much soul and humanity to it, and vulnerability, especially when Joel is alone. You know? He has to be a tough guy around everybody, but when he’s alone, that’s when you see all that soul."

The Last of Us Renewed for a Second Season

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The Last of Us is the brainchild of Craig Mazin, the Primetime Emmy award-winning creator of Chernobyl, and Neil Druckmann, the creator of the original video game. At the heart of the series are two captivating characters - Joel, a hardened survivor, and Ellie, a teenage girl played by Bella Ramsey. Set 20 years after modern civilization has been destroyed, The Last of Us follows Joel and Ellie as they navigate through a dangerous and unpredictable world. The third episode, “Long, Long Time,” has been receiving high praise for its exploration of the relationship between two survivors, Bill (Nick Offerman) and Frank (Murray Bartlett). The episode delves deeper into the complexities of human relationships in a world that has been destroyed and has been hailed as the best episode so far.

The popularity of The Last of Us has continued to grow, breaking the record for the largest second-week audience growth for an HBO Original series. This impressive feat has led to the series being renewed for a second season, much to fans’ excitement everywhere. The continued growth in popularity of The Last of Us is a testament to the talented cast and crew and the captivating story that has drawn audiences in. With its post-apocalyptic setting, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes, the series is sure to continue captivating viewers for seasons to come.

The Last of Us airs on HBO and HBO Max at 9 p.m. EST every Sunday.