Movies

For ‘The Last of Us’ cast, music was a throughline on and off screen

BBG News

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In the HBO series “The Last of Us,” the music significantly contributes to establishing the atmosphere, whether it’s for significant scenes or small, emotional moments. This isn’t surprising given its similarity to the video game, which received praise for its soundtrack composed by Gustavo Santaolalla (who also works on the show), and for the cover versions of popular songs that added depth to the storyline.

In the latest episode of Season 2 of “The Last of Us,” entitled “The Price,” there’s a nod back to a scene from the game that fans have eagerly anticipated: Joel (Pedro Pascal) plays a heartfelt, acoustic version of Pearl Jam’s “Future Days” for Ellie (Bella Ramsey). This song encapsulates themes of loss and self-doubt, but also of unity and progress. Moreover, in “Day One,” the fourth episode of Season 2, Ellie performs a soothing cover of A-ha’s “Take on Me” while Dina (Isabela Merced) enters and encourages her to keep playing this tender interpretation. This is another instance from the game where a popular tune reflects the characters’ feelings, hinting at the blossoming relationship between Ellie and Dina.

In a recent interview, Craig Mazin, co-creator of “The Last of Us,” stated that “Bella” is the one playing the guitar and singing ‘Take on Me’ to Dina in a particular scene where Ellie also plays the guitar. He emphasized that it was not any sort of trickery or special effect, simply Bella herself performing in that scene.

Neil Druckmann, one of the creators behind the series and game franchise, recognized that when Ramsey was chosen as an actor, his musical talents would prove beneficial for potential future seasons. “I recall watching a video of them performing and singing, and I thought to myself, ‘They’re prepared for Season 2 if we get there,'” he explained.

Ramsey isn’t the only one showcasing musical talents. Throughout the series, conversations with both cast members and creative minds revealed that music served as a unifying force among them, both during filming and behind the scenes. Here, we gather some of their musings about music and collaborative performances.

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Bella Ramsey on the joy of making music

For Bella Ramsey, music has been another creative outlet that brings them joy.

During a pre-release interview for Season 2, Ramsey hinted at the prospect of Ellie playing a guitar, similar to the game, though he also mentioned that they have been secretively working on creating music.

Television

The lead actor in HBO’s post-apocalyptic series mentioned that filming Season 2 was significantly tougher, yet it provided them with deeper insights into their own personality.

Previously, Ramsey had felt quite ashamed and uncertain about his own musical abilities, but now, after collaborating with talented producers and being guided by a fantastic music manager named Tom, he’s enthusiastic about music.

Although Ramsey hasn’t specified a timeline for the release of their own music yet – as they delved straight into the production of an indie film after the “The Last of Us” press tour – they hinted that when they do, it will likely be in a subtle or stealthy manner.

Ramsey mentioned that creating music brings him a similar sense of happiness and fulfillment as working on a film set does.

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Jam sessions on set, from Radiohead to Twenty Trucks

If you’re among Gabriel Luna’s Instagram followers, you might have noticed that throughout the second season, he frequently shared stories and posts showcasing his appearances on red carpets or with his co-stars. During breaks on set, he even enjoyed some impromptu jam sessions. In London for one of the premieres, he found himself unable to resist buying a guitar as he felt an irresistible urge to play it.

During an interview linked to the third episode, he discussed the genuine affection among the cast members: “There’s a true sense of camaraderie present, even between those who portray on-screen adversaries or mortal enemies. I believe it’s this bond that allows us to convincingly hate each other and pursue one another’s downfall on screen.

Television

In Episode 3, the actor shares insights about the impact of Joel’s demise, delves into the development of the poignant farewell scene between Tommy, and explains the significance of his commitment to steer clear of clichéd character portrayals.

The love is clearly displayed during those jam sessions, where they’ve played covers ranging from The Cranberries to Radiohead. However, a particularly heartwarming moment comes in the form of a video showing him playing guitar alongside his young co-star Ezra Agbonkhese, who portrays Tommy’s son Benjamin. Singing “Off Road Racing Truck” by Twenty Trucks together, this duet is one of the most endearing moments. As you might have guessed, the song is about racing trucks.

A post shared by Gabriel Luna (@iamgabrielluna)

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Young Mazino on the cast trading songs ‘like Pokémon’

According to Young Mazino, guitars were a lifesaver on the set of “The Last of Us.”

In an interview with The Times before the fifth episode, Mazino shared that everyone had brought their own guitar without discussing it first. As a result, there was always a guitar present during filming. Bella, Isabella, Gabriel, or someone else would often play a tune or song, and if someone knew it, they’d join in or learn it together.

Television

In a recent episode of ‘The Last of Us’ Season 2, we find Jesse making a comeback. Here’s what young actor Mazino has to say about Jesse’s reappearance, his perspective on the relationship between Ellie and Dina, and his thoughts on the theme of revenge in the series.

As a dedicated fan of this gripping series, I must say the world it paints is often grim, with the constant danger of a fungal contagion transforming people into ravenous zombies. In season 2, Jesse, Mazino’s character, found himself pursuing his dearest friends, who were embarking on a vengeful journey, right into the heart of a war zone. He shared that even in those grueling days filled with non-stop shooting, the camaraderie and shared love for music – exchanging tunes like trading Pokémon cards – offered much-needed moments of lightheartedness amidst the heavy atmosphere.

Mazino mentioned, “Occasionally, Isabella and Bella would burst into a capella singing at random places,” he added. “Their heavenly voices seemed to blend seamlessly as I contemplated in a secluded corner.

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2025-05-23 13:32

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