Decoding the Meaning of ‘The Last of Us’ Season Premiere’s Final Moments

On the latest episode of The Last of Us, Ellie faced a situation that many queer individuals can relate to. While showing affection in public, she was met with a homophobic slur. It’s a chilling moment that highlights the show’s key theme: human society is still stuck in the past on the show, set in a world where the apocalypse hit in 2003.

Creator Craig Mazin explains that the show aims to accurately depict the world as it was and speculate on how society would have progressed on issues like religion, race, gender, and sexuality in a post-apocalyptic world. The upsetting moments in the show serve as reminders of the past, and the creators didn’t want to shy away from them.

However, portraying queer identities and homophobia in the media can be challenging. The show, based on a popular video game series, has faced both praise and criticism for its LGBTQ+ characters. While some have applauded its inclusivity, others have accused it of promoting queer “propaganda.”

The games and the show have also been praised for their representation of trans characters, like Lev, a trans man born into a religious sect. These characters offer a beacon of inclusivity in a medium that has often lacked diversity.

The show also explores how queer individuals can build communities and chosen families in a post-apocalyptic world. In a society divided into religious sects and cults, queer characters offer an alternative framework for rebuilding.

Despite its challenges, The Last of Us presents a nuanced view of society and human relationships. It serves as a mirror to our own world, questioning notions of making things “great again” and the treatment of marginalized groups. The characters, including the queer ones, are portrayed with depth and complexity, reflecting a diverse range of human experiences.

Overall, The Last of Us is not just a show about survival in a post-apocalyptic world; it’s a reflection on humanity, progress, and the enduring resilience of marginalized communities. Through its storytelling and character development, the show invites viewers to consider a different way of being and relating to one another, even in the face of adversity.