"Director of 'The Last of Us' weighs in on Ellie and Dina's bond: 'It's more than infatuation'"
Rewritten Article
This article contains spoilers for "Day One," Episode 4 of" The Last of Us: HBO's Post-Apocalyptic Drama Take on LGBTQ+ Themes
Ellie and Dina's exploration of the desolate Capitol Hill neighborhood in the fourth episode of "The Last of Us" Season 2, unveils a heart-melting, poignant moment.
"What's all the rainbow stuff about?" Dina, brilliantly played by Isabela Merced, queries as the duo navigates through the dilapidated cityscape on horseback.
" dunno, maybe they were all optimists," Ellie, portrayed by Bella Ramsey, replies, passing a mural of a vibrant rainbow heart.
The early scene foreshadows the growth of Ellie and Dina's relationship, offering viewers a hint of their budding romance. Since their initial kiss in the series premiere, they've tentatively danced around each other - physically and emotionally - and the episode furthers their emotional connection.
Breaking Barriers in TV
Bella Ramsey embraces tough topics as Ellie in "The Last of Us"
Actor Bella Ramsey, the star of the gritty dystopian series, expressed that filming this season proved to be significantly more taxing, yet it offered her greater insights into her character.
After overcoming formidable obstacles, including an armed militia and hordes of infected, the pair finally embraces their platonic relationship and consummates it in "Day One."
"We intended to make the audience dubious right up until the kiss," director Kate Herron explains during a recent conversation. Before the kiss, gun-wielding Dina holds Ellie, fearing she'll have to kill her infected GF. Herron pondered whether audiences would be frustrated by the changes to Ellie and Dina's relationship compared to the game, but appreciates Craig Mazin's decision to postpone this significant moment until later in the series. "It's more impactful and surprising because not everyone will recognize they're a couple in the game," she shares.
Steeped in LGBTQ+ themes, Herron is seasoned in bringing varied queer characters to life on hit shows such as Marvel's "Loki" and "Doctor Who."
" It's an absolute privilege to help tell these stories," Herron asserts. "There's an element of responsibility, but also immense gratitude, in being able to share these narratives."
Insights from the Director
Interested in Ellie and Dina's developing relationship, Herron suspects the insights she shared may have boosted her chances of landing the "The Last of Us" gig. Recalling, "I didn't request a specific episode, it was assigned to me. But I was thrilled when I read it. The tale resonated, and I knew that if it resonated with me, it would with others."
"The Last of Us" presents a harrowing depiction of the world, but Herron finds joy in the hour dedicated to Ellie and Dina's happiness together.
What were your thoughts on Ellie and Dina's relationship development throughout the season up until this point?
I haven't experienced an apocalypse like they have, but I found their experiences relatable. The questioning over whether they have feelings for one another or not? That's a common theme many of my friends and I have dealt with. My main focus was ensuring everything felt authentic and maintaining emotional consistency throughout the story. I desired that moment in the theater to be impactful.
The queer rite of passage in a post-apocalyptic wasteland
I appreciate the show's portrayal of young people navigating the complexities of their emotions while battling in a zombie-infested world. For me, it's essential to highlight ordinary human experiences within extraordinary settings. That's what truly captivates me.
Comparing the series and game's relationship between Ellie and Dina
There are changes in Ellie and Dina's relationship on the show compared to the game, providing fresh narrative opportunities. Emma F compete's how the episode takes its time clarifying their connection before the rooftop kiss, ultimately making it feel deserved. I enjoyed receiving this episode because its themes are significant, and I knew it would resonate with numerous people.
Capitol Hill and the LGBTQ+ Symbolism
Capitol Hill, featured in the game, provided a chance to explore the neighborhood without explicit understanding of LGBTQ+ symbols. To the characters, the rainbow flags may simply represent colorful decorations left behind. This small detail signifies that Ellie and Dina's world has changed drastically, and it offers a wistful nod to the LGBTQ+ community that once thrived in the neighborhood.
"Take On Me" Serenade Scene
Before the climactic rooftop scene, Ellie impresses Dina with an intimate rendition of "Take On Me" on the guitar. Herron explains their approach to this scene, emphasizing careful adherence to the script and a mix of takes, capturing different emotions ranging from playful to serious.
Romance in a World of Horror
It's essential to remember the danger posed by the mushroom zombies lurking in the background while highlighting the pieces of joy and love in the story. Balancing these elements was crucial to create tension before giving way to the rooftop kiss.
A Reminder of Creativity Surviving in the Apocalypse
Creating meaningful connections and chasing artistic passion are instincts innate to humans, regardless of whether the world is bursting with vibrant colors or covered in decay.
Early Hints of Ellie's Pregnancy
After Dina reveals her pregnancy, Ellie affectionately declares "I'm gonna be a dad." Herron appreciates the heartwarming dialogue, paralleling the evolution of their relationship.
Queer Representation in Big Franchises
Throughout her career, Herron has been involved in significant queer moments in major franchises, including helping to establish Loki's bisexuality in "Loki" and penning an episode of "Doctor Who." Herron considers it a privilege to be able to contribute to diverse narratives, and particularly cherishes the opportunity to reveal such stories on popular platforms.
- Dina's curiosity about the rainbow murals in the desolate Capitol Hill neighborhood reflects the optimism of pre-apocalyptic culture.
- Bella Ramsey, who stars as Ellie in The Last of Us, lauded the show for tackling tough topics and providing deeper insights into her character.
- In Los Angeles, Kate Herron, the director of The Last of Us, has a history of bringing varied queer characters to life on popular television shows like Loki and Doctor Who.
- The romantic development between Ellie and Dina in The Last of Us serves as a brilliant example of empathy and emotional growth in a post-apocalyptic world.
- The episode "Day One" not only launches the romantic relationship between Ellie and Dina, but also postpones this significant moment compared to the game, increasing its impact on viewers.
- As The Last of Us season continues, education and entertainment continually intertwine, addressing LGBTQ+ themes and offering complex, relatable characters for the audience.
- In a world ravaged by Covid-19 and inhabited by mushroom zombies, Ellie's performance of "Take On Me" on the guitar showcases the enduring resilience of human creativity and the pursuit of connection.
