The Last of Us Season 1 Review ~ This Post-Apocalyptic Drama Does Not Disappoint

In January, I posted about the premiere episode of The Last of Us and promised to review the entire season at it’s end. I am pleased to report that the first season of this post-apocalyptic drama does not disappoint. In case you missed the plot, the show revolves around Joel and Ellie as they attempt to complete a mission while surviving in terrifying circumstances after the world is taken over by monsters, human and other.

High Expectations from Built-In Fan Base

Because it is based on a video game, The Last of Us already has a huge built-in fan base and lots of critics. So the expectations seem to be very high for every aspect of this show from the actors chosen to the storylines and even specific scenes. I am thankful to have never played the game so I have been able to just enjoy the show and have no expectations. I feel it’s similar to reading the book and then watching the movie. There are just so many ways to possibly feel let down. And I don’t really like to read anyway. 😉

Perfect Casting

Pedro Pascal is perfect to play Joel who is stoic and hard when necessary but also dedicated and protective. Bella Ramsey plays Ellie with great comedic timing, wit and intensity. Their relationship is delightful to watch from the first episode to the last. Each episode seems like a separate little movie and I enjoyed each one. Some of them were made to show the lives of others in this apocalypse, some were made to move the story forward, some to show the intensity of the “zombies”, and some to grow the relationship between Ellie and Joel.

Is It Just Another Zombie Show?

It is difficult not to compare The Last of Us to The Walking Dead (my all time favorite show). They are both post-apocalyptic dramas about some form of outbreak leading to “zombies”. But in all honesty that is where the similarities end. While I do feel that fans of one show will enjoy the other they are very different. In The Last of Us, Joel and Ellie are the focus and they have a very specific goal. It also moves very quickly and doesn’t get attached to many other characters. The Walking Dead was in it for the long haul with many characters and storylines that I could discuss for eternity. But I won’t do that here, I promise. There is definitely room for both shows in my heart and my living room.

My Favorite Genre

This is absolutely my favorite genre of tv. Just say the word “post-apocalyptic” and I’m in! People trying to survive in impossible circumstances and the humanity and horror that comes out of that situation is immensely interesting to me. Add an intriguing story and great acting and I am hooked! I cannot wait for Season 2.

Good Stuff: Post apocalyptic!! Great casting and character development

Bad Stuff: Not enough time with certain characters

Where to Watch: HBO Max