‘The Last Of Us': Interesting facts for the series' fans

Since its premiere, 'The Last of Us' has struck a chord with gamers and new audiences alike, combining cinematic presentation with an engaging post-apocalyptic story. While die-hard fans of the video game might recall every nuance, the production and development history of the series is full of great stories and inside information. These are some interesting facts regarding the show's making.

Prior to bringing ‘The Last of Us’ to television, there had been two previous attempts at an adaptation. One was a feature film that stagnated in development for six years, never making it beyond one table read prior to its cancelation in 2020. The second adaptation was an animated film, one which Sony did not ultimately decide to greenlight. These unsuccessful projects set the stage for the eventual HBO series, which has managed to capture the spirit of the popular video game for a new generation.

The original game's fans will be thrilled to see familiar faces and voices in the series. Merle Dandridge, the voice of Marlene in the game, reprises her role in live-action. Also, Troy Baker and Ashley Johnson, the original Joel and Ellie, guest star in the series as new characters-Baker as James, a survivor group member, and Johnson as Anna, Ellie's mother, in a plotline not fully explored in the games. Their inclusion fills the gap between the game and the series.

Both Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey, who play Joel and Ellie, are HBO alumni. Pascal played the infamous Oberyn Martell on Game of Thrones Season 4, and Ramsey played the fierce Lyanna Mormont in Seasons 6-8. Interestingly, both had their characters meet iconic conclusions on the show. Their earlier experience with HBO's grand storytelling has certainly helped make them powerful performers in ‘The Last of Us.’

Initially, it promoted the first season to be 10 episodes long, which is typical for most streaming shows. But in the lead-up to the premiere, the number of episodes was cut to nine. That adjustment occurred because the initial first two episodes were merged into one premiere. Executives believed that the series required a stronger opening to capture audiences' attentions better, leading to an improved beginning of the season.

While the show is based in the American cities of Austin and Boston, the entire season was shot in Alberta, Canada, between July 2021 and June 2022. The shoot saw local storefronts altered, trees and snow removed, and even Texas police cars shipped in to provide a real-world feel. The sheer magnitude of the shoot saw The Last of Us become the biggest TV production in Canadian history, highlighting the nation's diversity as a destination for film shoots.

Casting Ellie was a long process, with some well-known actors in consideration for the part. Early speculation from fans indicated Elliot Page (then Ellen Page) based on a strong physical resemblance. Maisie Williams from 'Game of Thrones' was in contention for the abandoned film adaptation, while Kaitlyn Dever even did a table read. In the end, Bella Ramsey was selected, with original Ellie voice actress Ashley Johnson confirming, "She's Ellie. She has the essence of Ellie."