HBO's The Last of Us Podcast: Season 1, Episode 7 - "Left Behind"

Host: Troy Baker
Guests: Craig Mazin (Showrunner), Neil Druckmann (Showrunner)
Release Date: February 27, 2023

Introduction

In Season 1, Episode 7 of HBO's The Last of Us, titled "Left Behind," the podcast hosted by Troy Baker delves deep into the transformation of the beloved DLC (Downloadable Content) story into a pivotal episode of the TV series. This episode explores Ellie's relationship with Riley, offering fans a richer understanding of Ellie's character and the narrative's emotional landscape.

Origins of "Left Behind": From Game to Show

Neil Druckmann discusses the transition of "Left Behind" from a companion comic book and DLC into the television format. Originally released in the DLC as an additional chapter to the main 15-hour game, "Left Behind" was designed to center Ellie, providing an intimate look into her life before the main story unfolds.

Neil Druckmann [02:14]: "We took our most important character, Ellie, and put her at the center of both of these stories."

Craig Mazin elaborates on HBO's influence in intertwining the episode more closely with the main narrative, ensuring that Ellie's experiences in "Left Behind" resonate with the overarching plot.

Innovative Opening Sequence

A significant departure from the game is the episode's opening sequence, which eschews a traditional cold open in favor of a direct transition into Ellie's world.

Craig Mazin [03:54]: "Ellie reaches for the doorknob here and the screen cuts to black..."

This choice emphasizes the seamless integration of Ellie's past with the present storyline, highlighting the interconnectedness of both narratives.

Character Depth and Emotional Resonance

The podcast delves into the nuanced portrayal of Joel's final moments with Ellie and the profound impact of their relationship. The discussion highlights Joel's internal struggle and his heartbreaking decision to push Ellie away to save her.

Craig Mazin [06:10]: "He's mourning the fact that the only way he could get her to go, to save her, was to push her away."

Troy Baker emphasizes the subtlety of Joel's emotions, noting the single tear as a powerful indicator of his complex feelings.

Music Selection: Pearl Jam's "All or Nothing"

Music plays a crucial role in setting the emotional tone of the episode. Neil Druckmann shares his personal connection to Pearl Jam's "All or Nothing," explaining how the song encapsulates Ellie's mood and attitude.

Neil Druckmann [07:35]: "This song captures where Ellie is at right now, that she's alone... it's very much Ellie."

Craig Mazin adds that the song's allure lies in its ability to resonate beyond Pearl Jam's fanbase, fostering a deeper connection with the audience.

Depiction of Fedra: A Balanced Portrayal

Unlike earlier episodes that painted Fedra in a predominantly negative light, "Left Behind" introduces a more complex view of the organization. The conversation between Riley and Ellie showcases Fedra's internal conflicts and the pressures they face to maintain order.

Craig Mazin [13:40]: "We're the only things holding this together. If we go down, these people are going to starve or kill each other."

This balanced depiction adds layers to Fedra's character, portraying them not merely as antagonists but as individuals grappling with immense responsibility.

Visual and Setting: The Mall Experience

The setting of the mall is meticulously recreated, blending practical locations with visual effects to capture the nostalgic essence of the original game. Craig Mazin highlights the challenges and triumphs of bringing this iconic location to life.

Craig Mazin [30:58]: "It was just magic. Absolutely fucking magic."

The mall serves as a backdrop for Ellie's journey, symbolizing both freedom and the encroaching dangers of their world.

Key Emotional Moments

• Photo Booth Scene: The intimate moment where Ellie and Riley take photos together serves as a metaphor for their blossoming relationship and Ellie's struggle with vulnerability.

  Neil Druckmann [42:52]: "This moment is about a cracking of the dam, of seeing... that there is more here than just friendship."

• Dance Scene at Victoria's Secret: A beautifully choreographed sequence where Ellie and Riley express their feelings through dance, showcasing Bella Ramsey's (Riley) powerful performance.

  Craig Mazin [58:56]: "Ellie has this connection to Riley that is so powerful and so joyous that she just can't let it go."

• Final Confrontation: The heartbreaking climax where Ellie must choose between her feelings for Riley and her survival instincts, culminating in a desperate attempt to save Joel.

  Neil Druckmann [56:15]: "It's love. It's what this show's all about."

Integration of Mortal Kombat 2

A nostalgic nod to classic arcade culture, the inclusion of Mortal Kombat 2 in the episode serves as a bridge between the characters' past and present.

Craig Mazin [47:13]: "Mortal Kombat 2 is the best ever, right?"

Neil Druckmann explains the homage to the original game, emphasizing its significance in reflecting the girls' shared passions and the era's cultural landscape.

Conclusion: The Enduring Impact of "Left Behind"

"Left Behind" not only enriches Ellie's backstory but also sets the stage for her character's evolution throughout the series. The podcast highlights how the episode balances action with emotional depth, ensuring that both fans of the game and newcomers to the series find resonance in Ellie's journey.

Craig Mazin [61:30]: "The time we have is the time we have. The fact that it must end is not a reason for us to not love."

As the episode concludes, the trio reflects on the powerful storytelling and character development, anticipating the revelations and challenges that lie ahead in the next installment.

Notable Quotes

• Neil Druckmann [02:14]: "What if we treated both of these things like they matter, like they're essential?"
• Craig Mazin [06:10]: "It's not the pain that's making him cry. It's that... he's mourning."
• Neil Druckmann [07:35]: "Capturing where Ellie is at right now, that she's alone."
• Craig Mazin [30:58]: "We got to watch it happen here, and it was just like heaven."
• Neil Druckmann [56:15]: "It's love. It's what this show's all about."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the depth and breadth of discussions in the podcast episode, providing listeners and readers with valuable insights into the creative process behind "Left Behind" and its significance within The Last of Us universe.