Getting Ashley Johnson to play Anna was so fitting I’m actually mad the thought hadn’t crossed my mind. Ashley voiced Ellie in the games, and it’s a bit eerie that she actually kinda looks like Bella now too. Just a beautiful bloodbath of a finale!
I made the suggestion on Reddit once the show was announced. I’m sure I wasn’t alone, but I’d like to think is was a drop in the current to this thought. Ps: my suggestion for Troy was to be the Firefly Joel shoots in the nuts asking where the surgery room is. They all ain’t winners.
I think the part none of you mention about the giraffe is that Joel doesn’t watch the spectacular animal in front of them, he watches Ellie and he smiles the whole time. It’s a moment of hope in the show. I’m not sure about the game, because I’ve never played, but in the show Joel is relieved and sees that Ellie is still in there.
Sign of how good this adaptation is, because that's exactly the purpose the Giraffe scene serves in the game, it's a moment of regained innocence for Ellie after the horrific experience she goes through with David
I’ve never played either, but I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve watched playthroughs of both games on RUclips. If you’re ever so inclined, they’re absolutely worth watching, and there are any number of great series to watch. (I know you didn’t ask but just in case: Julien just played the remastered version of the first game maybe 6mo ago and it’s on his channel as a series and that’s my favorite play thru of game 1 currently. And the jacksepticeye series will probably forever be my favorite for part 2.)
Listening to Ashley talk during this podcast was like listening to Ellie. I will never be able to get her voice, as well as Troy's version of Joel, out of my head. That being said, I absolutely adored this show and both Pedro's and Bella's performances. Both versions of this story are truly independent works of art. Thank you for giving us two amazing versions of this story.
@@StewartFletcher I started to watch and right after intro a run to switch off the lights. I heard only the moaning and i was like, yeah, that´s Ellie. Wait, that´s Ashley´s Ellie. Bella did amazing job but for me, Ashley is Ellie.
I love how Craig put it that Ellie never once thought about how much she meant to Joel. It was always what he meant to her. That’s a take on Ellie that I have had for a while that she never quite fully realized exactly how much she meant to his life. Like she takes him for granted just a bit. And I love how subtextual Joel and Ellie’s relationship is. What makes their relationship work is what goes without saying. So much is said by not actually saying it and it all leaves you wanting more. That subtle dance between tease and payoff with their relationship is what keeps us chomping at the bit, fully engaged with every single second of their relationship.
Completely agreed. And I absolutely LOVE that they did such an incredible job of portraying this platonic form of love, granted they become like father & daughter, but at the end of the day they know that’s not what they are and their relationship is so full and rich and complex, and that’s not something we get portrayed in any medium very often
You can tell it kind of freaks her out lol. Knowing what he might have done. I think a lot of us have those moments with our parents, where we realise the depths of their borderline obsessive love. It's nice to be loved that much but it can also be toxic
That's only natural for children. Our children can never really know how much they mean to us until they have children of their own. It's like something not truly knowable until you experienced it. It's so deep that it becomes a part of you. Some people think they know it when they care for a pet like a dog, but it's different. It's not just caring for something, it's like you have torn out a part of your soul and sent it out into the world. Much deeper than can be known until it has happened to you.
@@williammullinax6130 Reminds me of the film Judy where she says something like don’t have kids because it’s like wearing your heart on the outside of your chest and then sending it out into the world where anything can happen.
When Craig mentioned that Ellie never thinks about how much she means to Joel...as a dad, this spoke to me. Do our kids ever realize how much they mean to us? It isn't until we're older that we realize how much our parents loved us, because we see ourselves mirrored in them. I mean, we know, because they're our parents, but it's something we take for granted. They're supposed to love us. (Of course, as an adopted kid who was put back into the foster/group home system by my adopted parents, I'm very aware that this isn't always the case, but that's an a non sequitur.) As a side note, when I first played this game 10 years ago, when Sarah died in the prologue, I remember putting my PS4 controller down and going upstairs where my daughters were napping and sitting there in the room with them, just listening to them breathe. I didn't pick the game back up until last week when my youngest (with whom I am watching this show) told me that she wanted to watch me play it.
Abused kids do... Abused kids think about how much their parents love them all the time. Abused kids constantly question if their parents would care if they were gone Abused kids never stop thinking about how much they don't mean to their parents.
@@AtomicSim Which is why my caveat is there. I was very much aware of this as an adopted kid who was unadopted 8 years later. Being abandoned twice in one lifetime made made me very aware of how disposable some people are to others.
I am in shambles. The adaptation fulfilled and surpassed my expectations. I loved it so much and can’t wait for season 2. I’m so grateful for all of you and this beautiful thing you’ve created.
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for giving the game the respect it deserves with this absolutely perfect of an adaptation! I am beyond happy how amazing this show was! Thank you!
This was a tough episode obviously but Joel and Ellie overcoming their traumas and being able to talk about Sarah and Riley makes me happy. They overcame those loses because of their connection with eachother.
Joel is only talking about Sarah at the end in order to seem normal after what he did, and Ellie sees right through it which is why she doesn't engage with it as much as she would if he had talked about it before ep9.
It’s interesting, the comparisons to Eastwood’s “unforgiven” since it was also Made in Alberta. While listening to Pedro on the podcast it’s amazing how much his voice sounds “Clint like”.
The part where she tells little Ellie how tough she is, I was a mess. Imaging being in Ashley's position, saying this to a little baby Ellie, not only knowing what that little baby is going to go through, but knowing what she personally went through to create this character and how far she's come. So beautiful
I’m really appreciative that the voice actors got such important roles in the premiere season of this baby. Normally: this doesn’t happen. This is a show of love. I know the risks show directors took and how they knew fans might take this. Everything is chefs kiss.
The fact that Joel and Ellie don't hug or kiss or say "I love you" strikes a personal cord for me because my parents and I are not sugary and touchy feely like that either. That has made my relationship with my wife so important to me because she easily hugs and kisses and says "I love you" and demands those things from me. Something I didn't know I needed until her. I get now why Dina is so important to Ellie.
@@lukeshooI think he means it doesn’t come naturally or often. It takes a literal ‘I thought you could be dead before I got to you’ to bring that raw emotion out.
How do you expect them to hug and kiss if they basically know each other for a couple of months? Humans just don't do that, especially under these extreme circumstances. I mean one does not go from being cargo to "I love you so much" in such a short time 😂 your comment makes it seem as if Ellie was Joel's daughter.
@@porfiriato84 people could totally bond rapidly in such extreme and traumatic circumstances. Lots of people would quickly be extremely close and may express their affection through touch and warmth. Don’t project. These specific characters/people are simply closed off and guarded based on their life experiences.
"That's why men like you and me are here. We have a job to do. And God help any motherf***ers that stand in our way." Was the perfect line for Joel. If anyone has a problem with episode 3, despite the incredible storytelling and acting, hat line alone makes the episode worth it.
Agree, it was never just a portrayal of Ellie when it came to Ashley, bc so much of Ellie is shaped by Ashley. mad respect to everyone. the finale was amazing!
I like how in the show.. Marlene came off a lot more sympathetic . Because in the first game.. she seems heartless originally. But In the show... it felt more like something she didn't want to do... but Had to do. Made it hit better I feel. Then the way they really focused on the horror of what Joel was doing.. made it feel deeper too. How he just shot the doctor.. with no hesitation.. and the way he shot the guy who surrendered and brutally stabbed a dude. Really showed the love Joel has for Ellie now.. and showed how nothing or nobody but her matters now. But also showed just how horrifying love can be too when it causes people to do these types of things. I Think it will really help translate into the second game a lot better. Seeing as thats a major theme there too.
I didn't feel that way about her in the game, especially as you have the voice recorders you can listen to of her talking through having to kill Ellie and her promise to Anna. In the game, you first meet Ellie by her trying to stab Joel as if Joel was hurting Marlene, so the added dynamic between the characters made it feel like Marlene cared more about Ellie too. They had known each other and cared about each other for a time, while in the show Marlene watched her from a distance, not getting to know her for her safety. In the show, she came off as a bit more soulless to me, a bit more for the cause.
I think you just missed it honestly… the dialogue was almost word for word and the performance almost identical since it’s the same actress playing Marlene… Plus there’s added context through the voice recorders and we know Ellie is like a daughter to her from the beginning of the game. If anything she seems more emotional in the game… on the verge of tears the whole time but holding back. Also, Joel was like that throughout the entire game, shooting people who have surrendered. When he killed the doctor he stabbed the man in the neck with his own scalpel… I think maybe when playing the game you were just caught up in the emotions and had a bit of tunnel vision?
That anecdote from Neil about his father and the debate about the prisoner exchange to save that one Israeli soldier is such a perfect summation of the moral dilemma at the heart of The Last of Us.
@@bacontomato9210 I heard that too - and wondered that they didn't necessarily cut/mute that....I appreciate those who have played the game Know - but it could be a bit spoilery for those that haven't (if they were paying attention that "Abbey" was in the room in that shot)
Just finished watching episode 9 season finale of TLOU … Bravo Bravo HBO … this is how you do a video game adaptation that is so beloved. You respected the original material faithfully enough and the slight deviations were actual improvements (episode 3 in particular). Thank you to all involved for making this fan’s wish come true. Also having Ashley Johnson and Troy Baker included in last two episodes was so appreciated by every fan. I can’t wait for season two and what’s to come. P.S. … I understand budget concerns when filming but if possible please include more of the Infected Scenes from game in next season also. Great job to all those involved with making this masterpiece 👍 10/10 Giraffes 🦒 approved
Agreed completely with your thoughts! I don’t miss the infected/action sequences too much but I can understand that for a lot of gamers it feels like it’s missing. I’m just SO nervous by how everyone seems to be SO LOUD everywhere they go lol
I agree with your sentiments - but I wouldn't call Episode 3 a deviation - it's an enhancement. A Deviation is the Hotel being in Boston, not Pittsburg or Kathleen in KC and not Hunters in Pitts for Chapter 5.
I would like to thank Craig and Neil for this incredible adaptation. My family, especially my mom, now understands why I have an unhealthy obsession with the game.
HOOOORAY! WE GET ASHLEY JOHNSON TO JOIN IN THE PODCAST! GO Ashley!!! Love her dearly as Ellie's voice in both TLOU and TLOU2. How fittingly that she's Ellie's birth mom in this episode.
Bringing back Ashley Johnson to play ellie's mom was brilliant. And getting that backstory finally is also so nice even though we've always sort of assumed it went down in a similar way.
There's incredible symbolism of Ashley being Ellie's mother on the show, as Ashley Johnson did make Ellie become alive as a character, and Ellie contains parts of her.
The Last of Us is the BEST of tv writing and acting, and now my FAVORITE show ever. The genius writing, riveting emotional plot, transcendent acting, insane practical effects, and visionary directing is all simply SUBLIME. Just pure back-to-back breath-taking episodes (that owe me therapy.)
did you play the games? they’re my fav games of all time and you’re the first person I’ve seen say it’s their favorite show, makes me so happy to know this project was such a success for people
It’s like this copypasta of hyperbole (that I genuinely have seen on a different post) is designed to draw out the haters and create discourse. Speak your real feelings fr
In the last month I’ve gone from knowing nothing about the Last of Us to having played/beaten the game and having watched each episode 3+ times each. What a story. Thank you to the storytellers that put so much heart and care into it-from the writers and voice actors to the game programmers and show editors. It really is one of the best stories I feel like I’ve encountered in my entire life.
Just an absolute triumph in every way. EVERY single episode was incredibly engaging, purposeful, thoughtful, all of it. Some episodes were better than others, but mannnn, you can really feel the love and care from Craig Mazin in this series. He truly respects and reveres the material, and he spent so much time getting it right! It's the first time I've ever seen such a steady hand shepherding the source material from one of my favorite, most beloved stories in video games. 10/10 first season, no doubt about it. Thanks SO MUCH for doing this show, Craig and Neil!
The way the show handled the hospital scene, it makes the events in part 2 far more understandable. The way the focused on Joel's violence and what he left in his wake (ESPECIALLY the close up of the dead doctor) makes me really understand what unfolds. (trying to stay spoiler free lol).
@@porfiriato84 agreed but i feel like what’s different in the adaptation is we are no longer in the drivers seat per say. pedro’s joel and the players joel are completely separate, it’s easier to see the impact on joel’s actions when we aren’t justifying ourselves making them if that makes sense. the lingering on the doctor just sets the stage for the show’s abby, it was beautifully well done.
I'm hoping for season 2 they create and fill the story in the 5 years leading up to Part II. Showing Joel and Ellie's life in Jackson and how they start to become distant after becoming so close because of Ellie's suspicions, even though Joel never gave up on her and still cared so much. Just seeing more of their relationship will make Part II's events hit that much harder.
@@allynicole38 Yeah as someone who knows the plots but hasn't played the games, what Joel does is so awful that you can't say he doesn't deserve commupence.
Thank you Craig and Neil for an incredible first season that captures Part 1 so authentically, you guys deserve all the Emmy's, can't wait to see what you bring for season 2!
THEY ACTUALLY DID IT! That one scene I needed with Ellie and Joel happened 🦒. My only negative for the series would be not enough infected and hope in season 2 they don't hold back.
It makes me so emotional to hear Ashley talk about this role. It's one thing to bring one of the greatest characters in video game history to life, but to do it with so much humility and grace is truly something special. ❤
it's funny how they were like "in the last scene ellie wasn't listening to a word joel was saying" meanwhile i was bawling my eyes out at what he was saying
God you guys encapsulated everything I love about the game, the story, the characters, and the feels. Such a phenomenal job, well done to all involved. I didn't think I could fall in love with the story twice, but I was sorely mistaken. I can't wait for season 2, but I also don't want season 2...
Bravo. I’m so happy this turned out as good is it did. Not everyone plays games so it’s wonderful that now people who don’t game can experience this amazing story.
The passion you all have for this project is incredible and shines through in how you talk in this podcast. Thank you for an amazing first season and this amazing podcast!!
This game and series can be talked about for the next 10 years and I'd be fine. It just holds a special place for the true fans who loved the game. I didn't get to play it until 5 years after it came out and once I did it instantly became my all time favorite ever. I'll just never get over what happened in part 2.
Other than listening to the podcast, my favourite part is reading the comments. So much heart in this section and it's like talking with friends about the show we all love. Honestly I learn how interesting your thoughts and experiences by reading each comment.
I know none of them is probably gonna read this, but this podcast has made this show 1000x better, from the 10/10 it already is. An absolute masterpiece. But what this podcast told me and the thoughts sparked inside of me is incredible. Thank you
I love listening to Neil, Troy and Ashley talk about The Last Of Us. Cannot get enough. Then add uber fan Craig and it just gets better. Thank you for a well done season.
I have never been able to forgive that the fireflies didn't ask Ellie what she wanted. If Marlene is so sure (as she states in the quote at the beginning of this podcast) that Ellie would have wanted to sacrifice herself, why didn't they just *ask* her? I've always thought that if they had, she would have agreed, and if she'd been able to talk to Joel directly, and tell him that it *was* what she wanted, things might have been different. It has always felt contrived to me that they didn't just talk to Ellie.
I felt the same (cuz I thought that was the most objective logical thing) but at the same time I’m pretty sure even if marleen wanted to get Ellie’s permission the overwhelming majority of the firefly’s would do it anyway if Ellie didn’t want to. That’s bad but it’s for the greater good I always thought they should’ve just asked her (I felt Ellie would’ve said yes any way) but I don’t think they wanted to even risk the idea of losing their potentially only chance of a cure
They probably saw it as a mercy for her. They were going to do the op either way so why let her worry that theyre going to sacrifice her. Better she remain oblivious.
I think Marlene didn't know Ellie well enough, so she was worried that if she asked Ellie, that Ellie would say no. While Joel knew Ellie well enough, so he was worried that if he asked Ellie, Ellie would say yes.
Even if thats a case, when the future of humanity is on the line, consent doesn't matter. I mean there is always a chance for Ellie to say "No", Marlene just wanted to get it over with.
Funny/random thing happened while watching this episode. Got my mom to watch with me and she immediately said, I think that was my student. She was referring to Ellie's mom, which of course is Ashley Johnson. Yup, my mom, Mrs. Gibson, was Ashley's 3rd grade teacher. She was elated to see you in the show that she loved and to find out that you were Ellie in the game.
Ashley Johnson is a legend and I love everyone is giving her flowers because she totally deserves them. Ellie is a very special character and it feels so right when ever the person behind her is appreciated.
The absolutely beautiful thing about the contrast of Joel and Marlene is that in a way it has Marlene as a hero and Joel as a villain. A hero would sacrifice someone they love for the greater good. A villain would burn the world down to keep the ones they love safe.
And remember how Joel judged Henry for doing the same thing: killing Kathleen’s brother, who meant so much to so many people, in order to keep his own little brother alive? Ironic that a few months later, he does something even more unforgivable to save the one person who means the most to him.
@@denisesudell2538But he doesn't judge Henry for what he did, In fact he even understands, Even though he doesn't say anything, Henry says that he understands that he may not even be Ellie's father but he knew that Joel had been a father .
For me, Joel is not a villain, And about a villain this is extremely subjective, Because there is a great diversity of different types of villains, Not just the one you described. And there are anti-heroes who kill like Frank Castle and I think Joel fits as an anti-hero.
In the show while Joel is going through the hospital taking out the fireflies, the scene of Sarah’s death kept replaying in my head. The look on his face was as if everyone he saw looked like the soldier that took his daughter from him. Just chilling
I’m in awe at how much Ellie’s mom look like Ellie and then to find out she played Ellie in the game??!! 🤯 I’m adore everything about this story and this show. I never knew about the game, can’t wait to try it out now that the season 1 of the show has ended.
You will love the game! If you don't get it free on PS Plus or the PS5 special of classic PS4 games - it would be worth buying the Last of Us Part I PS5 Remake (improved graphics, and overall experience). Otherwise the remastered PS4 version is still excellent (and free/inexpensive)
Well after all these years I stand corrected. I always believed that in the end, when Joel told her "I swear" I thought Ellie believed the lie. I only thought Ellie's relationship with Joel went a big downhill in P2 bc she was growing up and going thru her emotional phase lol. So this whole time she knew he lied but deep down she still loved Joel. Wow
Ellie knew it at the first place when she was laying down in the car. In the series Joel mentions about raiders attacking the hospital so there was no time to pack things meaning Ellie lost his backpack so it makes more sense to Ellie to believe him, but as you've played the game, you probably remember these lines didn't exist in the game and Ellie's frustration was so clear in response of Joel's story. She did nothing but turning her back to Joel.
Ashley Johnson is an incredible Ellie. And her delivery in 1+2 were both perfection. I watched her on the blindspot? And always just thought "Ellie!". That role defined my perception of her.
Ellie: So time heals all wounds does it? Joel: It wasn’t time that did it….. 😭😭😭😭😭 I played this game 10 years ago and to this day it is one of the single greatest stories ever told. I remember debating with other gamers for over a year about if Joel made the right decision or not. The question of “You have a chance to save the world but the cost is that you lose the person you love the most in the world after already suffering that pain before”. The answer, the REAL answer, is that both Joel and Marlene made the wrong decision, because that decision should’ve been Ellie’s to make. In the Last Of Us (GAME) podcast Neil Druckman talks about how Joel and Marlene had no right to take that choice away from Ellie. She would’ve said yes, and then Joel would have no choice but to respect her wish. She wanted the deaths of all the people she had lost, Riley, Tess, Henry and Sam, to mean something. Even if it cost her her life. And even though a small part of her knows in her heart that Joel was lying to her she feels that she can’t let herself believe that the only person she loves in the world took away her chance to save the world. Also I love that Ashley Johnson got to play Ellie’s mom Anna. It was a beautiful full circle moment that the woman who plays Ellie in the games played her mother in the show. And it sucks that even though we have to wait a couple more years for season 2, it will be worth the wait! Until then, Endure And Survive!
Overall this was easily the best video game adaptation I've ever watched ,and truly one of the best television shows in recent memories I really cannot wait for season 2 ,and bravo to Craig, Neil ,Bella, Pedro, and everyone else involved in bringing this absolutely wonderful story to an entirely new audience. Wait til they see part II!👏🏾👏🏾
It's easily the best videogame adaptation ever created in my book, hands down. I feel like there's virtually no arguing against that. What else could we even compare it with? Resident Evil movies? No way. Monster Hunter? That movie was atrocious. I really struggle to think of anything at this level of quality and production that could also stand on its own as a great piece of media independent of the source material. If the game never existed, this would still be a great show.
Thank you so much for these podcasts, I've looked forward to hearing from Troy, Craig and Neil every week just as much as the episode itself. Having Ashley here is the additional cherry on top of a brilliant finale of a brilliant series. A beautiful full circle kind of cycle. Hope to hear these come season 2!
I have repeatedly told people why episode 3 mattered a lot, why we need to see Bill's story because of the importance the letter plays in Joel's and Ellie's relationship. It is so nice to hear the creators confirm that.
The recreation of the editing / cut / stitch pattern for the drive home from Salt Lake City and Marlene's outro was a wonderful decision and something I had hoped you guys would do. Bang up job; thank you for this beautiful rendition of an already beloved masterpiece.
59:41 i interpreted the “okay” as it was intended, but i LOVE ashley’s interpretation. she’s like, i know you’re lying and i’m giving you one last chance to tell me the truth, and then he goes and keeps lying about the biggest thing he could lie about, and she’s like okay. he’s gonna keep lying to me and our relationship will never be the same
fantastic episode. they really stuck the landing on one of the best, if not THE best video game adaptation(s). and ashley johnson was just magnificent. can't wait for season two!! 💖
As a fan of the video game, this finale was PERFECT. The expanded stories and all the added details to these beloved characters was so gotdam great. -Loved that Ashley’s scene was something that was supposed to come to life a while ago. -Loved hearing Ashley’s insights! -Really perceptive BTS fun fact about the video game test group. Craig, Neil, Troy, it was an immense pleasure tuning into this podcast every week. I was always a fan of AMC’s Talking Dead after show. I’m sure a live audience broadcast of this conversation would also be that successful. Commenting this in hopes it will manifest into that. Lastly, TY for exploring the world of The Last of Us with us! ♥️♥️♥️
Making the problem at the end of the episode even more egregious just works. Ellie’s conscious when the fireflies take her and they still never ask her directly her choice
@@theogofguitar exactly. If either Joel or Marlene asked her, it would tip the conflict and sympathy towards their side. The framing of the conflict is perfect
The flashback on Anna was brilliant. The character and characterization bind strongly with the storytelling. The protagonist and the antagonist amplify the climax remarkably. The anticlimax I thought was the plot ends too soon. Overall, the cast and production team are awe-inspiring. Bellie❤Pedge forever! It wasn't time that did it...
One thing that I thought the initial scene adds to, is how Ellie identifies with Marlene, since they both had to kill their best friends who got infected. So I thought there's one more layer of hurt when Ellie thinks Joel might have killed her
the ONLY thing that may be a challenge to get to that depth of understanding is that Ellie and Marlene had at Most 5 minutes together of knowing who the other was. how much could they cover in that time?
I don't think I've ever felt so many feelings from a show. Just ALLLL the feelings. Pedro Pascal in this episode....I don't know what to say, it was just phenomenal. I'm terrified of season 2, but I'm so there.
I just love how the very first episode and the very last episode has probably the best cold open scenes. They don't necessarily gives us new information, but more like elaborate on it and sets the theme for the rest of the episode. The intro in Episode 1 just establishes the threat of fungi and the apocalypse to come without really adding new information. Episode 9's intro, not only is a beautiful metaphor to Ashley but it reinforces the tragedy and character development of not only Ellie but it adds a bit more weight to Marlene too even though no new information about Marlene was there in this episode as opposed to the game but seeing her being there when Ellie was born, killing her mom and now choosing to kill Ellie and breaking that promise to save the humanity speaks a lot about her character and the weight of sacrifice!
When I was playing the hospital scene in the game I was in utter turmoil. There was no way we couldn’t save humanity, at the same time, I couldn’t let Ellie die. I feel that, psychologically, Joel had no choice but to do what he did but I think, in a way, he would have been fine dying if the first guy he faced got the drop on him and killed him because he’d done his damndest to save Ellie. Incredible last episode and thanks for these podcasts. It’s been invaluable to hear your reasoning and thoughts when creating the show.
Whats amazing to me is listening to all these guys talking, its so deep, and its about a video game! I was just browsing the news channels, and the majority of all the news articles are about the final episode of The Last Of Us. Even on CNN. How crazy is that, lol. I'm a hardcore gamer, played Last Of Us and also 2 multiple times on every difficulty, I consider them the best games ever made. And I been screaming that to everyone I know (relatives and non gamers) since 2013, and of course no one listened to me, lol. But now that its on HBO, suddenly everyone believes me. I hope Neil/Troy/Craig/Ashley, everyone is reading some of these posts. You did it right Neil....thank you.
![The Last of Us cast sit down with game and show creators | Creator to Creator [Part 1]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/L7qaeSYkDyg/mqdefault.jpg)
Watch more of The Last of Us here: ruclips.net/p/PLSduohp5OGX4ngLIWTLh5PCYqnAANIWB3
Timestamps please!
Proszę o tłumacz w języku polskim.
Probably the greatest show tv of all time. Great Podcast´s. Can´t wait to see 2º Season. Portuguese Regards!
Getting Ashley Johnson to play Anna was so fitting I’m actually mad the thought hadn’t crossed my mind. Ashley voiced Ellie in the games, and it’s a bit eerie that she actually kinda looks like Bella now too. Just a beautiful bloodbath of a finale!
What? Bella looks way different.
But yes, it was very fitting, that casting choice!
@@RustCohle072 Bella and Ashley look similar enough for sure - several similar features at least. It just elevates the casting that much more.
I made the suggestion on Reddit once the show was announced. I’m sure I wasn’t alone, but I’d like to think is was a drop in the current to this thought.
Ps: my suggestion for Troy was to be the Firefly Joel shoots in the nuts asking where the surgery room is. They all ain’t winners.
Passing the torch!
@@RustCohle072 Ashley and Bella have very similar facial structures, IMO, especially the definition of the jaw.
Joel being “the guy that shot and missed” was a heartbreaking detail but so well done 😭
“I missed too.”
I thought that moment was poorly executed and gringey
It was the only part of the episode that I liked
@@alejomiranda95 🤨🙃🙃
@@alejomiranda95 it was phenomenal and very effective.
I think the part none of you mention about the giraffe is that Joel doesn’t watch the spectacular animal in front of them, he watches Ellie and he smiles the whole time. It’s a moment of hope in the show. I’m not sure about the game, because I’ve never played, but in the show Joel is relieved and sees that Ellie is still in there.
Sign of how good this adaptation is, because that's exactly the purpose the Giraffe scene serves in the game, it's a moment of regained innocence for Ellie after the horrific experience she goes through with David
Ok. Now you must play the game! It's fun and not too hard
I’ve never played either, but I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve watched playthroughs of both games on RUclips. If you’re ever so inclined, they’re absolutely worth watching, and there are any number of great series to watch.
(I know you didn’t ask but just in case: Julien just played the remastered version of the first game maybe 6mo ago and it’s on his channel as a series and that’s my favorite play thru of game 1 currently. And the jacksepticeye series will probably forever be my favorite for part 2.)
It was beautiful seeing how much he cares for her.
What do you mean, they did mention that and talked about it in detail.
Listening to Ashley talk during this podcast was like listening to Ellie. I will never be able to get her voice, as well as Troy's version of Joel, out of my head. That being said, I absolutely adored this show and both Pedro's and Bella's performances. Both versions of this story are truly independent works of art. Thank you for giving us two amazing versions of this story.
It was so weird to hear her voice during the episode. Even just the grunts and moans while she's running to me RIGHT BACK to the game
@@StewartFletcher I started to watch and right after intro a run to switch off the lights. I heard only the moaning and i was like, yeah, that´s Ellie. Wait, that´s Ashley´s Ellie. Bella did amazing job but for me, Ashley is Ellie.
@@honzazizka13 I Agee and Bella is live action Ellie and it's great we get to have both amazing ellies
So glad Ashley was included in this episode. Loved her input.
@population-_-4209 Abby was there too - Laura played one of the nurses :)
@@FromPolandWithROAAAAR Yup! Laura Baileyy babyyyy
I love how Craig put it that Ellie never once thought about how much she meant to Joel. It was always what he meant to her. That’s a take on Ellie that I have had for a while that she never quite fully realized exactly how much she meant to his life. Like she takes him for granted just a bit. And I love how subtextual Joel and Ellie’s relationship is. What makes their relationship work is what goes without saying. So much is said by not actually saying it and it all leaves you wanting more. That subtle dance between tease and payoff with their relationship is what keeps us chomping at the bit, fully engaged with every single second of their relationship.
Completely agreed. And I absolutely LOVE that they did such an incredible job of portraying this platonic form of love, granted they become like father & daughter, but at the end of the day they know that’s not what they are and their relationship is so full and rich and complex, and that’s not something we get portrayed in any medium very often
You can tell it kind of freaks her out lol. Knowing what he might have done. I think a lot of us have those moments with our parents, where we realise the depths of their borderline obsessive love. It's nice to be loved that much but it can also be toxic
That's only natural for children. Our children can never really know how much they mean to us until they have children of their own.
It's like something not truly knowable until you experienced it. It's so deep that it becomes a part of you. Some people think they know it when they care for a pet like a dog, but it's different. It's not just caring for something, it's like you have torn out a part of your soul and sent it out into the world. Much deeper than can be known until it has happened to you.
@@williammullinax6130
Reminds me of the film Judy where she says something like don’t have kids because it’s like wearing your heart on the outside of your chest and then sending it out into the world where anything can happen.
Agreed 💯
To whom ever is cast as Abby ,just know you're the bravest woman in the world.
Lol. For real!!
Seriously, if she has social media I think she should delete it. No job is worth the tsunami of undeserved hatred she’d receive.
Loll or that golf club dude
You don’t deserve any of the death threats you’ll inevitably receive
Bethany looked just like Abigail.
No one in the entire world could have been Ellie's mum if not Ashley. What an absolute win!
And it fits more than just her being Ellie in the game, because she and Bella looks similar enough to be believable as mother and daughter!
When Craig mentioned that Ellie never thinks about how much she means to Joel...as a dad, this spoke to me. Do our kids ever realize how much they mean to us? It isn't until we're older that we realize how much our parents loved us, because we see ourselves mirrored in them. I mean, we know, because they're our parents, but it's something we take for granted. They're supposed to love us. (Of course, as an adopted kid who was put back into the foster/group home system by my adopted parents, I'm very aware that this isn't always the case, but that's an a non sequitur.)
As a side note, when I first played this game 10 years ago, when Sarah died in the prologue, I remember putting my PS4 controller down and going upstairs where my daughters were napping and sitting there in the room with them, just listening to them breathe. I didn't pick the game back up until last week when my youngest (with whom I am watching this show) told me that she wanted to watch me play it.
Abused kids do... Abused kids think about how much their parents love them all the time. Abused kids constantly question if their parents would care if they were gone Abused kids never stop thinking about how much they don't mean to their parents.
@@AtomicSim Which is why my caveat is there. I was very much aware of this as an adopted kid who was unadopted 8 years later.
Being abandoned twice in one lifetime made made me very aware of how disposable some people are to others.
@@AtomicSim The comment you replied to made me cry when I read it, and this is exactly why. We think about it constantly.
I am in shambles. The adaptation fulfilled and surpassed my expectations. I loved it so much and can’t wait for season 2. I’m so grateful for all of you and this beautiful thing you’ve created.
So, basically you're a... shambler?
@@ivanooze1049 if she is, I am too.
@@khimaros Shambler is an infected variant in the game. He was making a reference
Personally I can wait for season two i think it’ll put me into a serious depression
@@georgiag8109 that’s a good point 🥲
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for giving the game the respect it deserves with this absolutely perfect of an adaptation! I am beyond happy how amazing this show was! Thank you!
This was a tough episode obviously but Joel and Ellie overcoming their traumas and being able to talk about Sarah and Riley makes me happy. They overcame those loses because of their connection with eachother.
Joel is only talking about Sarah at the end in order to seem normal after what he did, and Ellie sees right through it which is why she doesn't engage with it as much as she would if he had talked about it before ep9.
@@itspaddyd yup she never would of believed his flub for half a decade come on.
It’s interesting, the comparisons to Eastwood’s “unforgiven” since it was also Made in Alberta. While listening to Pedro on the podcast it’s amazing how much his voice sounds “Clint like”.
The part where she tells little Ellie how tough she is, I was a mess. Imaging being in Ashley's position, saying this to a little baby Ellie, not only knowing what that little baby is going to go through, but knowing what she personally went through to create this character and how far she's come. So beautiful
I’m really appreciative that the voice actors got such important roles in the premiere season of this baby. Normally: this doesn’t happen. This is a show of love. I know the risks show directors took and how they knew fans might take this. Everything is chefs kiss.
I can listen to Ashley's voice for years & still feel just mesmerised by her.
I've never had a voice mean so much to me before
The fact that Joel and Ellie don't hug or kiss or say "I love you" strikes a personal cord for me because my parents and I are not sugary and touchy feely like that either. That has made my relationship with my wife so important to me because she easily hugs and kisses and says "I love you" and demands those things from me. Something I didn't know I needed until her. I get now why Dina is so important to Ellie.
They do hug... When he calls her babygirl. They are warm toward each other.
@@lukeshoo that's Once. it's not regular
@@lukeshooI think he means it doesn’t come naturally or often. It takes a literal ‘I thought you could be dead before I got to you’ to bring that raw emotion out.
How do you expect them to hug and kiss if they basically know each other for a couple of months? Humans just don't do that, especially under these extreme circumstances. I mean one does not go from being cargo to "I love you so much" in such a short time 😂 your comment makes it seem as if Ellie was Joel's daughter.
@@porfiriato84 people could totally bond rapidly in such extreme and traumatic circumstances. Lots of people would quickly be extremely close and may express their affection through touch and warmth. Don’t project. These specific characters/people are simply closed off and guarded based on their life experiences.
"That's why men like you and me are here. We have a job to do. And God help any motherf***ers that stand in our way." Was the perfect line for Joel. If anyone has a problem with episode 3, despite the incredible storytelling and acting, hat line alone makes the episode worth it.
Agree, it was never just a portrayal of Ellie when it came to Ashley, bc so much of Ellie is shaped by Ashley. mad respect to everyone. the finale was amazing!
Ashley you were incredible in this! Surreal to see you and Merle together after becoming so familiar with your voices in the games.
I like how in the show.. Marlene came off a lot more sympathetic . Because in the first game.. she seems heartless originally. But In the show... it felt more like something she didn't want to do... but Had to do. Made it hit better I feel. Then the way they really focused on the horror of what Joel was doing.. made it feel deeper too. How he just shot the doctor.. with no hesitation.. and the way he shot the guy who surrendered and brutally stabbed a dude. Really showed the love Joel has for Ellie now.. and showed how nothing or nobody but her matters now. But also showed just how horrifying love can be too when it causes people to do these types of things. I Think it will really help translate into the second game a lot better. Seeing as thats a major theme there too.
I didn't feel that way about her in the game, especially as you have the voice recorders you can listen to of her talking through having to kill Ellie and her promise to Anna. In the game, you first meet Ellie by her trying to stab Joel as if Joel was hurting Marlene, so the added dynamic between the characters made it feel like Marlene cared more about Ellie too. They had known each other and cared about each other for a time, while in the show Marlene watched her from a distance, not getting to know her for her safety. In the show, she came off as a bit more soulless to me, a bit more for the cause.
Abigail should of been one of the nurses.
@@StarRain6 the actress was
I think you just missed it honestly… the dialogue was almost word for word and the performance almost identical since it’s the same actress playing Marlene… Plus there’s added context through the voice recorders and we know Ellie is like a daughter to her from the beginning of the game. If anything she seems more emotional in the game… on the verge of tears the whole time but holding back. Also, Joel was like that throughout the entire game, shooting people who have surrendered. When he killed the doctor he stabbed the man in the neck with his own scalpel… I think maybe when playing the game you were just caught up in the emotions and had a bit of tunnel vision?
@@johnnycampos1760 yeah joel murdered everybody in his way from the very beginning of the game.
The way Joel 'dissociates' in that last scene, just as he did as he threw the dead kid's body into the fire in episode 1.
That anecdote from Neil about his father and the debate about the prisoner exchange to save that one Israeli soldier is such a perfect summation of the moral dilemma at the heart of The Last of Us.
So Laura reprises her role as the nurse AND "Abby" gets to be in the room when her dad dies. Double points!
I was hoping others would notice! Brilliant details. Bravo to HBO
So I was not imagining things. I was like: "Is that... Laura?!"
I love how in the end of this when they are talking about her cameo and her picture craig goes "Daddy!" just a little tiny nod to those that know
@@bacontomato9210 I heard that too - and wondered that they didn't necessarily cut/mute that....I appreciate those who have played the game Know - but it could be a bit spoilery for those that haven't (if they were paying attention that "Abbey" was in the room in that shot)
I like how they focused on the dead surgeon...in a very subtle fashion...very quietly setting up that story line.
I'm so happy I was alive to see this masterpiece be adapted so beautifully. Props to everyone and I can't say thank you enough
“For Sarah who taught me to love, and for Ellie who reminded me how”
Just finished watching episode 9 season finale of TLOU … Bravo Bravo HBO … this is how you do a video game adaptation that is so beloved. You respected the original material faithfully enough and the slight deviations were actual improvements (episode 3 in particular). Thank you to all involved for making this fan’s wish come true. Also having Ashley Johnson and Troy Baker included in last two episodes was so appreciated by every fan. I can’t wait for season two and what’s to come.
P.S. … I understand budget concerns when filming but if possible please include more of the Infected Scenes from game in next season also. Great job to all those involved with making this masterpiece 👍 10/10 Giraffes 🦒 approved
Agreed completely with your thoughts! I don’t miss the infected/action sequences too much but I can understand that for a lot of gamers it feels like it’s missing. I’m just SO nervous by how everyone seems to be SO LOUD everywhere they go lol
the infected are fairly boring but i do want the rat king to make a appearance.
I agree with your sentiments - but I wouldn't call Episode 3 a deviation - it's an enhancement. A Deviation is the Hotel being in Boston, not Pittsburg or Kathleen in KC and not Hunters in Pitts for Chapter 5.
Ashley brought Ellie to life in the game and show.. Poetry at its finest!
I would like to thank Craig and Neil for this incredible adaptation. My family, especially my mom, now understands why I have an unhealthy obsession with the game.
HOOOORAY! WE GET ASHLEY JOHNSON TO JOIN IN THE PODCAST! GO Ashley!!! Love her dearly as Ellie's voice in both TLOU and TLOU2. How fittingly that she's Ellie's birth mom in this episode.
ASHLEY DID SUCH AN INCREDIBLE JOB. Really just an incredible piece of filmmaking. BRAVO
Bringing back Ashley Johnson to play ellie's mom was brilliant. And getting that backstory finally is also so nice even though we've always sort of assumed it went down in a similar way.
There's incredible symbolism of Ashley being Ellie's mother on the show, as Ashley Johnson did make Ellie become alive as a character, and Ellie contains parts of her.
The Last of Us is the BEST of tv writing and acting, and now my FAVORITE show ever. The genius writing, riveting emotional plot, transcendent acting, insane practical effects, and visionary directing is all simply SUBLIME. Just pure back-to-back breath-taking episodes (that owe me therapy.)
It is superb how much they crushed this. I was skeptical having played the games but I think I enjoy the show even more.
did you play the games? they’re my fav games of all time and you’re the first person I’ve seen say it’s their favorite show, makes me so happy to know this project was such a success for people
It’s like this copypasta of hyperbole (that I genuinely have seen on a different post) is designed to draw out the haters and create discourse. Speak your real feelings fr
@@andrewstephens5885 i’m willing to bet this is their real feelings about it wym
This story means so much to me. Thank you to the creators and actors who brought it to life. These characters have a place in my heart.
Picture of Laura Bailey standing over dead doctor throwing up the peace sign captioned: “Happy Father’s Day”
Such a pleasure to watch this series, can’t wait for season two🙏🏻
Season 2 is going to be so much different. So much...pain
Just play part II and you'll get seasons 2 AND 3 early
@@binder38us pain yes😩 and a divided fan base
@@porfiriato84 Sucks I’m going to have see comments like yours. Troll bait up the wazoo.
@@porfiriato84 Sucks that you’re stuck in your close-mindedness. Kindly f*** off.
In the last month I’ve gone from knowing nothing about the Last of Us to having played/beaten the game and having watched each episode 3+ times each. What a story. Thank you to the storytellers that put so much heart and care into it-from the writers and voice actors to the game programmers and show editors. It really is one of the best stories I feel like I’ve encountered in my entire life.
The performances from bella and pedro throughout the whole series were special.
Hearing Ashley talks just gives me goosebumps…because I hear Ellie. Like…I hear her in Ashley and it’s amazing ! Can’t wait for SZN 2
Now you know why joel was so hit mentally by henry's death. That's why he was looking at the grave longer than bella.
Just an absolute triumph in every way. EVERY single episode was incredibly engaging, purposeful, thoughtful, all of it. Some episodes were better than others, but mannnn, you can really feel the love and care from Craig Mazin in this series. He truly respects and reveres the material, and he spent so much time getting it right! It's the first time I've ever seen such a steady hand shepherding the source material from one of my favorite, most beloved stories in video games.
10/10 first season, no doubt about it. Thanks SO MUCH for doing this show, Craig and Neil!
Dude I’m so not ready for season 2 and for most of us that knows what’s gonna happen it’s gonna be heartbreaking man
The way the show handled the hospital scene, it makes the events in part 2 far more understandable. The way the focused on Joel's violence and what he left in his wake (ESPECIALLY the close up of the dead doctor) makes me really understand what unfolds. (trying to stay spoiler free lol).
@@709mash I mean it's literally what happened in the game.
@@porfiriato84 agreed but i feel like what’s different in the adaptation is we are no longer in the drivers seat per say. pedro’s joel and the players joel are completely separate, it’s easier to see the impact on joel’s actions when we aren’t justifying ourselves making them if that makes sense. the lingering on the doctor just sets the stage for the show’s abby, it was beautifully well done.
I'm hoping for season 2 they create and fill the story in the 5 years leading up to Part II. Showing Joel and Ellie's life in Jackson and how they start to become distant after becoming so close because of Ellie's suspicions, even though Joel never gave up on her and still cared so much. Just seeing more of their relationship will make Part II's events hit that much harder.
@@allynicole38 Yeah as someone who knows the plots but hasn't played the games, what Joel does is so awful that you can't say he doesn't deserve commupence.
Thank you Craig and Neil for an incredible first season that captures Part 1 so authentically, you guys deserve all the Emmy's, can't wait to see what you bring for season 2!
THEY ACTUALLY DID IT!
That one scene I needed with Ellie and Joel happened 🦒.
My only negative for the series would be not enough infected and hope in season 2 they don't hold back.
What a show. I was floored every week. I just can’t wait for season 2
yup
I’m not ready for season 2😢😢
@@Karlebow571 I really hope it's not a hole in one on episode 1 or 2. I really hope it's more like episode 5 for the hole in one.
There’s going to be Season 2? Why? The game only had one part! 😉😉🤫
@@nicolav9239 the best is yet to come 😈
It makes me so emotional to hear Ashley talk about this role. It's one thing to bring one of the greatest characters in video game history to life, but to do it with so much humility and grace is truly something special. ❤
This made me cry almost as much as episode 3 - what an amazing episode and amazing season.
it's funny how they were like "in the last scene ellie wasn't listening to a word joel was saying" meanwhile i was bawling my eyes out at what he was saying
God you guys encapsulated everything I love about the game, the story, the characters, and the feels. Such a phenomenal job, well done to all involved. I didn't think I could fall in love with the story twice, but I was sorely mistaken.
I can't wait for season 2, but I also don't want season 2...
Bravo. I’m so happy this turned out as good is it did. Not everyone plays games so it’s wonderful that now people who don’t game can experience this amazing story.
The passion you all have for this project is incredible and shines through in how you talk in this podcast. Thank you for an amazing first season and this amazing podcast!!
This game and series can be talked about for the next 10 years and I'd be fine. It just holds a special place for the true fans who loved the game. I didn't get to play it until 5 years after it came out and once I did it instantly became my all time favorite ever. I'll just never get over what happened in part 2.
I hope next season Ashley Johnson will be the host in this podcast, because part 2 is about ellie's continuous story
Omggg yes plz
She's not as interesting as Troy baker is. They need to keep Troy as host and just have Ashley talk more
Not everyone can host a podcast, it's not easy. Troy is clearly very good at it, hope they keep him.
Loved hearing Ashley talk about Bella and their portrayal of Ellie and their connection through Ellie 🥹 so beautiful
50:33 agree 100% he looked like he was on "autopilot" it's hard to describe but it was incredible
Ashley was such a treat for both the episode of the show and this podcast. Thank you so much for this gift of an adaptation.
Other than listening to the podcast, my favourite part is reading the comments. So much heart in this section and it's like talking with friends about the show we all love. Honestly I learn how interesting your thoughts and experiences by reading each comment.
That was cool seeing the voice of Ellie play the mother of Ellie in the show.
I know none of them is probably gonna read this, but this podcast has made this show 1000x better, from the 10/10 it already is. An absolute masterpiece. But what this podcast told me and the thoughts sparked inside of me is incredible. Thank you
Ashley figuratively and literally gave birth to Ellie. It's beautiful
What a ride this series has been. Already looking forward to the sequel. Everyone involved should be very proud of What they have accomplished. Bravo😎
A phenomenal finale episode Love seeing Ashley the wait for season 2 is going to a vary long wait
Pedro said there's a chance they start filming season 2 at the end of the year, fingers crossed
I love listening to Neil, Troy and Ashley talk about The Last Of Us. Cannot get enough. Then add uber fan Craig and it just gets better.
Thank you for a well done season.
What a solid group of incredible creators. Fans of the game as well as the show couldn't be happier to have this podcast come to fruition!
I have never been able to forgive that the fireflies didn't ask Ellie what she wanted. If Marlene is so sure (as she states in the quote at the beginning of this podcast) that Ellie would have wanted to sacrifice herself, why didn't they just *ask* her? I've always thought that if they had, she would have agreed, and if she'd been able to talk to Joel directly, and tell him that it *was* what she wanted, things might have been different. It has always felt contrived to me that they didn't just talk to Ellie.
Then that would make for a weird ending and no part 2
I felt the same (cuz I thought that was the most objective logical thing) but at the same time I’m pretty sure even if marleen wanted to get Ellie’s permission the overwhelming majority of the firefly’s would do it anyway if Ellie didn’t want to. That’s bad but it’s for the greater good I always thought they should’ve just asked her (I felt Ellie would’ve said yes any way) but I don’t think they wanted to even risk the idea of losing their potentially only chance of a cure
They probably saw it as a mercy for her. They were going to do the op either way so why let her worry that theyre going to sacrifice her. Better she remain oblivious.
I think Marlene didn't know Ellie well enough, so she was worried that if she asked Ellie, that Ellie would say no.
While Joel knew Ellie well enough, so he was worried that if he asked Ellie, Ellie would say yes.
Even if thats a case, when the future of humanity is on the line, consent doesn't matter. I mean there is always a chance for Ellie to say "No", Marlene just wanted to get it over with.
Funny/random thing happened while watching this episode. Got my mom to watch with me and she immediately said, I think that was my student. She was referring to Ellie's mom, which of course is Ashley Johnson. Yup, my mom, Mrs. Gibson, was Ashley's 3rd grade teacher. She was elated to see you in the show that she loved and to find out that you were Ellie in the game.
Ashley Johnson is a legend and I love everyone is giving her flowers because she totally deserves them. Ellie is a very special character and it feels so right when ever the person behind her is appreciated.
The absolutely beautiful thing about the contrast of Joel and Marlene is that in a way it has Marlene as a hero and Joel as a villain. A hero would sacrifice someone they love for the greater good. A villain would burn the world down to keep the ones they love safe.
And remember how Joel judged Henry for doing the same thing: killing Kathleen’s brother, who meant so much to so many people, in order to keep his own little brother alive? Ironic that a few months later, he does something even more unforgivable to save the one person who means the most to him.
@@denisesudell2538But he doesn't judge Henry for what he did, In fact he even understands, Even though he doesn't say anything, Henry says that he understands that he may not even be Ellie's father but he knew that Joel had been a father .
For me, Joel is not a villain, And about a villain this is extremely subjective, Because there is a great diversity of different types of villains, Not just the one you described. And there are anti-heroes who kill like Frank Castle and I think Joel fits as an anti-hero.
I cried so many times during this episode. Thank u all
In the show while Joel is going through the hospital taking out the fireflies, the scene of Sarah’s death kept replaying in my head. The look on his face was as if everyone he saw looked like the soldier that took his daughter from him. Just chilling
My wife who’s never played the games, but knew Ashley was Ellie in the games, was blown away. “Omg they should do similar… they even look alike.”
I’m in awe at how much Ellie’s mom look like Ellie and then to find out she played Ellie in the game??!! 🤯
I’m adore everything about this story and this show. I never knew about the game, can’t wait to try it out now that the season 1 of the show has ended.
You will love the game!
If you don't get it free on PS Plus or the PS5 special of classic PS4 games - it would be worth buying the Last of Us Part I PS5 Remake (improved graphics, and overall experience). Otherwise the remastered PS4 version is still excellent (and free/inexpensive)
Ashley's centemate at 59:50 made me tear up man. These characters just feel so real to me that I feel like I'm hearing Ellie talk.
Well after all these years I stand corrected. I always believed that in the end, when Joel told her "I swear" I thought Ellie believed the lie. I only thought Ellie's relationship with Joel went a big downhill in P2 bc she was growing up and going thru her emotional phase lol. So this whole time she knew he lied but deep down she still loved Joel. Wow
Ellie knew it at the first place when she was laying down in the car. In the series Joel mentions about raiders attacking the hospital so there was no time to pack things meaning Ellie lost his backpack so it makes more sense to Ellie to believe him, but as you've played the game, you probably remember these lines didn't exist in the game and Ellie's frustration was so clear in response of Joel's story. She did nothing but turning her back to Joel.
@@hamedtbf what?? What are you talking about lol
I think you're confused
@@porfiriato84 re-watch or replay the hospital chapter, you'll remember as I've replayed it recently :D
Ashley Johnson is an incredible Ellie. And her delivery in 1+2 were both perfection. I watched her on the blindspot? And always just thought "Ellie!". That role defined my perception of her.
When the podcast is longer than the actual episode and I'm still hooked!!!
Ellie: So time heals all wounds does it?
Joel: It wasn’t time that did it…..
😭😭😭😭😭
I played this game 10 years ago and to this day it is one of the single greatest stories ever told. I remember debating with other gamers for over a year about if Joel made the right decision or not. The question of “You have a chance to save the world but the cost is that you lose the person you love the most in the world after already suffering that pain before”. The answer, the REAL answer, is that both Joel and Marlene made the wrong decision, because that decision should’ve been Ellie’s to make. In the Last Of Us (GAME) podcast Neil Druckman talks about how Joel and Marlene had no right to take that choice away from Ellie. She would’ve said yes, and then Joel would have no choice but to respect her wish. She wanted the deaths of all the people she had lost, Riley, Tess, Henry and Sam, to mean something. Even if it cost her her life. And even though a small part of her knows in her heart that Joel was lying to her she feels that she can’t let herself believe that the only person she loves in the world took away her chance to save the world.
Also I love that Ashley Johnson got to play Ellie’s mom Anna. It was a beautiful full circle moment that the woman who plays Ellie in the games played her mother in the show. And it sucks that even though we have to wait a couple more years for season 2, it will be worth the wait!
Until then, Endure And Survive!
I was really hoping Ashley would play Ellie's mom and I'm so glad it happened. So happy they brought back the foreshadowing flashbacks for the finale.
Also Laura Bailey as one of the nurses omg
Overall this was easily the best video game adaptation I've ever watched ,and truly one of the best television shows in recent memories I really cannot wait for season 2 ,and bravo to Craig, Neil ,Bella, Pedro, and everyone else involved in bringing this absolutely wonderful story to an entirely new audience. Wait til they see part II!👏🏾👏🏾
It's easily the best videogame adaptation ever created in my book, hands down. I feel like there's virtually no arguing against that. What else could we even compare it with? Resident Evil movies? No way. Monster Hunter? That movie was atrocious. I really struggle to think of anything at this level of quality and production that could also stand on its own as a great piece of media independent of the source material. If the game never existed, this would still be a great show.
Thank you so much for these podcasts, I've looked forward to hearing from Troy, Craig and Neil every week just as much as the episode itself.
Having Ashley here is the additional cherry on top of a brilliant finale of a brilliant series. A beautiful full circle kind of cycle.
Hope to hear these come season 2!
It's been more than a year but I can't stop listening to this podcast
I have repeatedly told people why episode 3 mattered a lot, why we need to see Bill's story because of the importance the letter plays in Joel's and Ellie's relationship. It is so nice to hear the creators confirm that.
The recreation of the editing / cut / stitch pattern for the drive home from Salt Lake City and Marlene's outro was a wonderful decision and something I had hoped you guys would do. Bang up job; thank you for this beautiful rendition of an already beloved masterpiece.
Just hearing Ashley's voice puts a smile on my face😊
59:41 i interpreted the “okay” as it was intended, but i LOVE ashley’s interpretation. she’s like, i know you’re lying and i’m giving you one last chance to tell me the truth, and then he goes and keeps lying about the biggest thing he could lie about, and she’s like okay. he’s gonna keep lying to me and our relationship will never be the same
This episode made me cry so many times. I love it
I’m glad there was an accompanying podcast for the show. I enjoyed listening to each conversation.
Having Ashley Johnson play Anna was perfect. There is no better way to pass the torch.
Season 2 is gonna be a tough watch for the feels. Can’t wait!
fantastic episode. they really stuck the landing on one of the best, if not THE best video game adaptation(s). and ashley johnson was just magnificent. can't wait for season two!! 💖
Thank you Ashley Johnson. For sticking up for Ellie!
As a fan of the video game, this finale was PERFECT. The expanded stories and all the added details to these beloved characters was so gotdam great. -Loved that Ashley’s scene was something that was supposed to come to life a while ago. -Loved hearing Ashley’s insights! -Really perceptive BTS fun fact about the video game test group.
Craig, Neil, Troy, it was an immense pleasure tuning into this podcast every week. I was always a fan of AMC’s Talking Dead after show. I’m sure a live audience broadcast of this conversation would also be that successful. Commenting this in hopes it will manifest into that. Lastly, TY for exploring the world of The Last of Us with us! ♥️♥️♥️
IT would be great - but - I was surprised to hear in this pod that they were actually recording it after Episode 3!?!
Making the problem at the end of the episode even more egregious just works. Ellie’s conscious when the fireflies take her and they still never ask her directly her choice
No one ever gave her the choice, they both made it for her. Gives more context to what she winds up doing and tye why and how
@@theogofguitar exactly. If either Joel or Marlene asked her, it would tip the conflict and sympathy towards their side. The framing of the conflict is perfect
The flashback on Anna was brilliant. The character and characterization bind strongly with the storytelling. The protagonist and the antagonist amplify the climax remarkably. The anticlimax I thought was the plot ends too soon. Overall, the cast and production team are awe-inspiring. Bellie❤Pedge forever! It wasn't time that did it...
One thing that I thought the initial scene adds to, is how Ellie identifies with Marlene, since they both had to kill their best friends who got infected. So I thought there's one more layer of hurt when Ellie thinks Joel might have killed her
the ONLY thing that may be a challenge to get to that depth of understanding is that Ellie and Marlene had at Most 5 minutes together of knowing who the other was. how much could they cover in that time?
I'm gonna rewatch this whole show again! Thank u for making it perfect
I don't think I've ever felt so many feelings from a show. Just ALLLL the feelings. Pedro Pascal in this episode....I don't know what to say, it was just phenomenal. I'm terrified of season 2, but I'm so there.
I just love how the very first episode and the very last episode has probably the best cold open scenes. They don't necessarily gives us new information, but more like elaborate on it and sets the theme for the rest of the episode. The intro in Episode 1 just establishes the threat of fungi and the apocalypse to come without really adding new information. Episode 9's intro, not only is a beautiful metaphor to Ashley but it reinforces the tragedy and character development of not only Ellie but it adds a bit more weight to Marlene too even though no new information about Marlene was there in this episode as opposed to the game but seeing her being there when Ellie was born, killing her mom and now choosing to kill Ellie and breaking that promise to save the humanity speaks a lot about her character and the weight of sacrifice!
When I was playing the hospital scene in the game I was in utter turmoil. There was no way we couldn’t save humanity, at the same time, I couldn’t let Ellie die. I feel that, psychologically, Joel had no choice but to do what he did but I think, in a way, he would have been fine dying if the first guy he faced got the drop on him and killed him because he’d done his damndest to save Ellie.
Incredible last episode and thanks for these podcasts. It’s been invaluable to hear your reasoning and thoughts when creating the show.
Whats amazing to me is listening to all these guys talking, its so deep, and its about a video game! I was just browsing the news channels, and the majority of all the news articles are about the final episode of The Last Of Us. Even on CNN. How crazy is that, lol. I'm a hardcore gamer, played Last Of Us and also 2 multiple times on every difficulty, I consider them the best games ever made. And I been screaming that to everyone I know (relatives and non gamers) since 2013, and of course no one listened to me, lol. But now that its on HBO, suddenly everyone believes me. I hope Neil/Troy/Craig/Ashley, everyone is reading some of these posts. You did it right Neil....thank you.