Why The Last of Us Should Avoid This Prequel Idea

The Last of Us: A Masterpiece in Limited Storytelling

The Last of Us, a highly acclaimed show based on the video game franchise, has captivated audiences with its gripping narrative set in a post-apocalyptic world. The series, unfolding 20 years into a society-toppling pandemic caused by a fungal infection, follows the journey of Joel (Pedro Pascal) and the immune teenager Ellie (Bella Ramsey) as they navigate through an Infected-riddled country.

Bill (Nick Offerman) speaking to Frank (Murray Bartlett) in The Last Of Us episode 3

While most of the episodes in The Last of Us season 1 revolve around the central storyline, there are a few chapters that deviate from the main narrative. One such episode, 'Left Behind,' offers an insightful look into Ellie's life, while the standout episode, 'Long, Long Time,' tells a remarkable queer love story that spans the outbreak's first 20 years. This unique storytelling approach has contributed to the show's success, as evidenced by its 2024 Emmy wins.

Nick Offerman and Murray Bartlett as Bill and Frank in The Last of Us episode 3

The Last of Us Episode 3: A Perfect Self-Contained Story

In The Last of Us season 1, episode 3, 'Long, Long Time,' viewers are introduced to Bill, an incredibly prepared survivalist, and Frank, a stranger who gradually breaks down the survivalist's walls. The episode is filled with quiet, delicate moments of humanity, standing in stark contrast to the series' other episodes. 'Long, Long Time' offers an achingly beautiful chapter that illustrates society's collapse alongside Bill and Frank's love story.

After winning the Outstanding Guest Actor In A Drama Series category at the Creative Arts Emmys, Nick Offerman, who plays Bill, discussed a possible prequel of Bill and Frank's lives before they met each other. However, it's essential for the episode's legacy and The Last of Us as a whole for Bill and Frank's story to remain a one-off example of perfectly self-contained storytelling.

The Risks of Expanding on 'Long, Long Time'

Despite the desire for more Bill and Frank, expanding on their story through a prequel or spinoff would risk undercutting the episode's poignant narrative and effective structure. The episode 'Long, Long Time' thrives because of its economy and careful restraint, which complement the characters and the show's larger themes. Adding more to their story would diminish the impact of their beautifully portrayed love story, which stands as a testament to lives well-lived in the face of adversity.