The Last of Us Season 2 Gets Epic Game of Thrones Battle Inspiration

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Summary

  • The Last of Us Season 2 will have a darker tone with new characters like Abby and Gail.
  • The new trailer showcases intense themes like airborne spores and a war between humans and infected.
  • Action sequences in Season 2 draw inspiration from Game of Thrones to highlight the world’s dangers.

The much-anticipated second season of “The Last of Us” is set to premiere soon, leaving fans buzzing with excitement following the first season’s impressive performance. Unlike its lighter moments in Season 1, this time we can expect a darker atmosphere. In addition, HBO is preparing to introduce several fresh faces to the series. Among these newcomers are Abby Anderson, Dina, and Gail, portrayed by Catherine O’Hara from “Schitt’s Creek.” She plays a therapist residing in Jackson, who is confirmed as Eugene’s wife in the series.

HBO recently unveiled a new trailer for the second season of ‘The Last of Us’, emphasizing its more somber elements and pulse-quickening scenes reminiscent of Naughty Dog’s sequel. In addition to the characters already dealing with trauma, they will now face a new threat: airborne spores. Furthermore, it appears that a major conflict between humans and the infected is on the horizon. ‘Game of Thrones’, another widely acclaimed series, featured intense battles as a crucial aspect of its storyline, particularly in an episode where the Army of the Dead clashed with the Free Folk. The trailer for ‘The Last of Us’ Season 2 hints at similar confrontations, as a swarm of infected is shown charging towards Jackson while its residents struggle to defend themselves.

The Last of Us Co-Creator Compares Season 2’s Action Sequence to Game of Thrones’ Hardhome Battle

During an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, showrunner Craig Mazin was asked if any inspiration came from the battle sequences in “Game of Thrones” while creating the dramatic confrontation between infected in “The Last of Us Season 2”. Mazin confessed that he is a huge fan of “Game of Thrones” and was particularly captivated by the eighth episode of the fifth season, titled “Hardhome”. He recalled being amazed at the complexity and intricacy of the action in “Hardhome”, without initially considering its technical aspects. Mazin further explained that the epic battle between the Army of the Dead and the Free Folk effectively tied the narrative together, which is similar to what the Jackson’s action sequence aims to achieve in Season 2.

What struck me most was the profound impact of the events unfolding within the story. The transformation of Karsi, her tragic fate, and the chilling introduction by The Night King, implying a looming confrontation with Jon Snow, left an indelible impression. The palpable desperation and sense of utter despair were overwhelming.

Mazin articulates that for the action sequences in Season 2 of “The Last of Us,” they were exceptionally bold in portraying how dire the situation could become for the inhabitants of Jackson. He elaborates that these scenes weren’t added arbitrarily, but served a purpose, much like the Hardhome episode in “Game of Thrones.” The intent was to make the people of Jackson realize their vulnerability, as they had grown complacent over the years, allowing their guards to slip down significantly. This dramatic event served as a harsh reminder, jolting them back into the stark reality of their dangerous surroundings.

Our approach to action is deeply rooted. Why do something? In constructing this storyline, we aimed high, seeking to illustrate the worst-case scenario. Yet, throughout the process, we consistently questioned our intentions: What’s the purpose? What impact will it have? And what does this signify for our characters in the long run?

In the first episode, Jackson is depicted as growing and expanding. There’s a sense of self-assuredness about him, almost an arrogance. He and his group don’t seem overly concerned with the turmoil beyond their borders. They’ve become somewhat complacent. They celebrate New Year’s Eve, attend therapy sessions, renovate homes, and have perfected their patrol system.

However, from an outside perspective, one might ask: Aren’t you aware that you’re characters in a TV show?

As a film enthusiast, I can’t help but marvel at the unforgettable spectacle that was the Battle of Hardhome in Game of Thrones’ epic eight-season run. It may not have been the largest battle, but its impact on the series’ narrative, particularly the Night King and his formidable power, is undeniable. If Season 2 of The Last of Us manages to replicate even a fraction of Hardhome’s brilliance, the Jackson battle could easily earn a spot among the greatest action sequences ever portrayed on television.

The Last of Us season two will premiere on April 13 on HBO Max.

Source: The Hollywood Reporter

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2025-04-01 18:14