“The Last of Us“ has undeniably raised the bar for what is expected from a zombie-themed narrative. The “Long, Long Time” episode was not only an epitome of top-tier television, but it also presented an evocative love story. By the episode’s conclusion, fans were left captivated and filled with questions. One notable aspect that piqued curiosity was the absence of Bill (Nick Offerman) and Frank’s (Murray Bartlett) bodies. Why was this choice made? Peter Hoar, the episode’s director, provides some insights.
The Decision Behind The Missing Bodies
According to an interview with Deadline, Peter Hoar revealed that the choice to exclude Bill and Frank’s bodies was not arbitrary. It emerged from extensive deliberations between Hoar and the showrunner-writer, Craig Mazin of “Chernobyl” fame. The conclusion they reached was profound. Given the season’s trajectory filled with deaths and traumatic experiences, the “Long, Long Time” episode could create its unique mark by departing from the norm.
Peter Hoar explained, “That was always on the page, never to show the dead bodies. It’s also something we discussed as a group at the very beginning. It’s not gratuitous. As EP Neil Druckmann would likely opine, the world of ‘The Last of Us‘ is intensely brutal. Such a world inevitably results in anguish and trauma, both physically and mentally. Craig believed displaying the bodies was redundant. It simply wasn’t vital.”
The Emotional Intensity of Bill and Frank’s Narrative
The “Long, Long Time” episode isn’t merely notable for its departures but also for its compelling narrative. The episode offers a broader perspective on Bill and Frank’s relationship, which in the video game, is a subtle subplot, overshadowed by the primary story of Ellie (Bella Ramsey) and Joel (Pedro Pascal). Hoar, when reminiscing about the episode, expressed his satisfaction, claiming he wouldn’t “change anything for the world” and that it was the most “ideal outcome” for the narrative.
The Last of Us: A Television Sensation
The debut season of “The Last of Us” was met with roaring applause. The show was immediately labeled as one of the year’s most stellar, garnering numerous Emmy nominations soon after its premiere. Among these nominations was a Best Directing nod for the “Long, Long Time” episode. However, while the show’s acclaim is widespread, news about Season 2 remains elusive, mainly due to the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. This means enthusiasts might have to wait till at least 2025 for the next season. On the bright side, fans can indulge in the universally acclaimed video game, “The Last of Us Part II,” allowing them to connect deeper with its expansive fanbase.
In Conclusion
“Long, Long Time” epitomizes the nuanced storytelling of “The Last of Us.” The creative decisions, like excluding the portrayal of Bill and Frank’s bodies, reinforce the show’s commitment to evocative storytelling over gratuitous visuals. As viewers eagerly await the next season, they can find solace in the rich content available, from the original game to its sequel. Meanwhile, every episode of “The Last of Us” is available for streaming on Max.
