Why is The Last of Us set in 2003?
The HBO TV adaptation of The Last of Us is set in 2003 because the writers felt that having the events take place simultaneously with the broadcast was more interesting and did not fundamentally change the story, allowing the show’s main timeline to be in 2023. This change from the original game’s timeline, which starts in 2013 and jumps to 2033, enables the exploration of the early 2000s period in a parallel universe.
Introduction to The Last of Us Timeline
The post-apocalyptic narrative of The Last of Us is intricately woven around the timeline of the outbreak and its aftermath. Understanding why the TV series chose a different starting year than the video game requires delving into the creators’ intentions and the implications of this change on the storyline.
Exploring the Reasons Behind the Change
The decision to set the outbreak in 2003 instead of 2013 was not arbitrary. It reflects a deliberate choice to make the show feel closer to our current timeline, enhancing the sense of immediacy and relevance for the audience. This adjustment also provides an opportunity to explore themes and settings that are distinct from the original game, particularly the societal and technological landscape of the early 2000s.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What year does the original Last of Us take place?
The original Last of Us game starts in 2013 and then jumps to 2033 for the main story, whereas the HBO series moves the outbreak to 2003, placing the story in 2023 after a 20-year time jump.
2. Why is Ellie immune?
Ellie’s immunity stems from being exposed to the Cordyceps fungus while in the womb, as her mother, Anna, was bitten before giving birth, transferring the fungus to Ellie through the umbilical cord.
3. What year is Ellie born?
Ellie was born in the spring of 2019 in the game, but the exact year of her birth in the TV series is adjusted due to the changed timeline, starting with the outbreak in 2003.
4. Why is there a time skip in The Last of Us?
The time jump is crucial as it reflects the changing nature of Ellie’s relationship with Joel, allowing for character development and a shift in dynamics over time.
5. How old is Ellie in The Last of Us 2?
In The Last of Us Part II, Ellie is 19 years old, five years after the events of the first game, showing significant growth and change.
6. How old is Ellie in The Last of Us?
In the first game, The Last of Us (2013), Ellie is 14 years old when Joel is tasked with escorting her across the post-apocalyptic United States.
7. What was the major mistake in The Last of Us?
A notable mistake in the TV series included crew members visible in the background of a shot, which was later addressed by HBO.
8. What was the mistake in The Last of Us?
The mistake involved crew members being seen in an overhead shot, which was caught by eagle-eyed viewers and reported on Twitter.
9. How long is the time jump in The Last of Us?
There’s a five-year time-jump between the first and second games, during which Ellie grows from 14 to 19 years old.
10. What word was banned on set of The Last of Us?
The word “zombie” was banned on set, as the creators preferred to emphasize the Cordyceps-infected humans as a unique aspect of the game’s universe.
11. Was Outbreak Day 2003 or 2013?
Outbreak Day was originally set in 2013 in the game but was changed to 2003 in the HBO series to align with the new timeline.
12. How old is Joel in The Last of Us 2013?
Joel was 32 years old when the outbreak occurred in 2013, according to his FEDRA ID card in The Last of Us: Part 1.
13. Does Ellie find out Joel lied?
Ellie eventually discovers that Joel lied to her about the Fireflies and the supposed cure, leading to a significant rift in their relationship.
14. Why did Ellie kiss Riley?
Ellie’s kiss with Riley establishes her sexuality and sets up Riley as a pivotal character in Ellie’s life, showcasing a deep emotional connection.
15. Is Bella Ramsey being recast in The Last of Us?
It has been confirmed that Bella Ramsey will not be recast for The Last of Us season 2, ensuring continuity in the portrayal of Ellie’s character.