Movies

What to Watch After The Last of Us

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Initially, the notion of turning a video game into a series was met with skepticism, often resulting in audience displeasure and critical rejection. However, times have evolved significantly, particularly after the triumph of HBO’s “The Last of Us,” which is based on the video game of the same title. This groundbreaking series garnered widespread praise from both fans and critics, receiving 8 Primetime Emmys. The story revolves around Joel (Pedro Pascal) and Ellie (Bella Ramsey) as they navigate a brutal and unforgiving post-apocalyptic America overrun by the undead, and the remaining humans are far from friendly.

It’s quite understandable why “The Last of Us” has shattered the barrier for successful video game adaptations. The series skillfully adapts the game’s captivating narrative, enhancing it for the screen with outstanding performances, breathtaking visual effects, and expertly choreographed action sequences. This gripping tale encompasses humanity’s struggle for survival at its most dire, the indestructible bond between two improbable individuals, and a zombie horror narrative all rolled into one. As the second season of this series concludes on Sunday, here are some recommendations to help you cope with the “The Last of Us”-sized gap in your life. We’ve compiled a list of other immersive world-building sagas, post-apocalyptic dramas, and noteworthy video game adaptations that should cater to every type of “The Last of Us” enthusiast.

Post-Apocalyptic Dramas

Silo

In a shrouded and enigmatic turn of events, all mankind now dwells beneath the earth’s surface within a colossal, multi-tiered complex known as a Silo. This self-contained society is structured with distinct class systems and brimming with intrigue. Enter Juliette (played by the captivating Rebecca Ferguson), an engineer residing at the Silo’s lowest level. As she delves deeper into a theory that could potentially redefine their existence, the narrative unfolds, gradually unveiling the intricacies of life within this subterranean community. The AppleTV+ series boasts exceptional world-building, with details meticulously layered to offer a richer understanding as episodes progress. _Silo_ offers a gripping and addictive slow burn, fueled by an alluring central mystery. With the assurance of its continued journey, as Season 3 has been confirmed and plans for a concluding Season 4 are in place.

Chernobyl

The critically-adored miniseries, “Chernobyl,” which garnered 10 Primetime Emmys, focuses on the devastating nuclear disaster in the Soviet city of Chernobyl. Crafted by Craig Mazin, who later collaborated on “The Last of Us,” this series is grim, heart-wrenching, and eerily captivating, making it hard to look away despite its bleakness. Much like “The Last of Us,” it delves into the raw essence of humanity teetering on the edge, battling against an overwhelming power that seems insurmountable. The talented cast includes Jessie Buckley, Jared Harris, Emily Watson, Paul Ritter, and Stellan Skarsgård.

Station Eleven

The ten-episode mini-series titled Station Eleven, penned by Patrick Somerville (Maniac), delves into the lives of individuals who endured a devastating pandemic that almost annihilated humanity, as they endeavor to construct a new society. What sets this series apart is its focus on characters outside the usual suspects, such as political leaders or resistance groups. Instead, it offers a perspective through a nomadic theatre troupe called the Traveling Symphony, who enact Shakespearean plays in the post-apocalyptic world, seeking to comprehend the destruction that claimed so many lives. This captivating series highlights the therapeutic value of art and underscores the importance of unity as the foundation for survival.

World-building Epics

The Walking Dead

The TV series AMC’s “The Walking Dead” combines elements of apocalyptic drama and world-construction epics, making it a must-watch for fans of “The Last of Us.” It offers hordes of the undead, endearing characters, and thrilling action. The story unfolds as sheriff’s deputy Rick Grimes (Andrew Lincoln) wakes from a coma to discover a world overrun by monsters known as “walkers.” Once hooked on the series, you might find yourself without the need for another show for quite some time; not only does it span across 11 seasons of “The Walking Dead,” but it also boasts numerous spinoffs like “Fear the Walking Dead,” “World Beyond,” and “The Ones Who Live.

The Leftovers

A startling occurrence reshapes the globe irrevocably as 2% of Earth’s total population mysteriously disappears without a trace. HBO’s series, The Leftovers by Damon Lindelof (known for Lost and Watchmen), explores the repercussions of this incident, referred to as “The Sudden Departure.” Set in a small New York town, the show follows various characters including Police Chief Kevin (Justin Theroux), Reverend Matt (Christopher Eccleston), and his sister Nora (Carrie Coon), who mourn the loss of her spouse. The talented cast also includes Regina King, Margaret Qualley, Amy Brenneman, Liv Tyler, and Ann Dowd. While epic may not be the ideal term to describe The Leftovers with only three seasons, its unpredictable, thought-provoking nature warrants discussion alongside the grandest and most distinguished series.

Other Video Game Adaptations

Twisted Metal

In simpler terms, the number of video game adaptations is quite small, and among those, there are even fewer that are truly worth watching. However, the Peacock’s Twisted Metal stands out as a genuinely enjoyable watch, offering a more light-hearted perspective on a post-apocalyptic world compared to The Last of Us, while still delivering plenty of exciting action sequences. The writers had a challenging task in this adaptation, transforming a game where you drive a car and destroy things into an engaging narrative about John Doe (played by Anthony Mackie). In this story, John is given a mysterious package that he must deliver across a ruthless America, with enemies trying to eliminate him at every turn.

Fallout

As a passionate film enthusiast, I’d like to share my excitement about one of the most cherished role-playing game franchises ever created – Fallout, which was brought to life in 1997 by visionaries Tim Cain and Leonard Boyarsky from Interplay Entertainment. Now, this retro-futuristic gem has been transformed into a captivating TV series that Amazon has already greenlit for two more seasons!

The story follows Lucy (Ella Purnell), a brave soul who ventures out of her sheltered Vault 33 home, delving into the harsh wastelands in search of her missing father. This post-apocalyptic world offers a perfect blend of action, suspense, and humor that keeps viewers hooked! The production values are top-notch, making it an immersive experience that truly brings the games to life.

Devil May Cry

Among the shows on this list, Netflix’s “Devil May Cry” stands out as one that has a tone quite different from “The Last of Us”. This series bursts with vibrant energy, much like punk music. Originating from the popular and entertaining action games by Capcom, “Devil May Cry” follows Dante (voiced by Johnny Yong Bosch), a mercenary who hunts demons, as he seeks to defeat a terrorist called the White Rabbit (Hoon Lee). The series, directed by Adi Shankar, is visually daring and stylish, with its action scenes being fast-paced and creatively arranged. The sixth episode of the first season is particularly impressive and showcases why this show is such an enjoyable watch.

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2025-05-26 06:06

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