The Last of Us Season 2: Navigating Social Dynamics in a Post-Apocalyptic World
The Setting: Jackson, Wyoming
In the second season of HBO’s The Last of Us, the narrative unfolds in Jackson, Wyoming, a settlement formed by survivors of the Cordyceps outbreak. This location, established by Joel’s brother Tommy (played by Gabriel Luna) and his wife Maria (Rutina Wesley), boasts a semblance of stability and safety, allowing characters like Ellie, now a proficient fighter and sharpshooter, to engage in its protection.
The Complacency of Safety
As the community grows comfortable, it begins reflecting certain societal issues that existed before the apocalypse. According to showrunner Craig Mazin, the relative safety in Jackson has fostered a sense of complacency. He notes that this sense of security can lead to the re-emergence of negative behaviors, including the use of homophobic slurs in social situations, a stark reminder of past societal problems.
Backlash and Representation
The portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters and themes has sparked significant discourse, particularly following the release of the episode titled “Long, Long Time,” which received a mixed response. Although it achieved the status of the most-watched episode to date, a vocal minority responded with backlash, leading to accusations of a “gay agenda.” This highlights ongoing tensions regarding representation in media, particularly from segments of the gaming community who were already critical of queer narratives in the source material.
A Love Story, Not Just a Gay Story
Actor Nick Offerman, recognized for his role in this episode, responded to criticisms by asserting, “It’s not a gay story; it’s a love story, you asshole!” This statement underscores the broader contention that narratives exploring queer relationships should not be limited to labels, but rather embraced for their richness and complexity.
Community and Conflict
The complexities of character portrayal in both the television series and the original video games are essential to understanding the diversity of experiences represented. Notably, the inclusion of characters like Lev in The Last of Us Part II, although groundbreaking, has also faced criticism. Some members of the queer community expressed concern over the depiction of Lev’s deadname and the execution of tropes that may not accurately reflect queer experiences.
Fostering an Inclusive Dialogue
The intention behind showcasing diverse characters and themes is to promote a nuanced understanding of LGBTQ+ experiences. As the creators indicated, a willingness to portray the ‘messiness’ of human relationships is critical, even if it leads to discomfort among certain viewers. The narrative aims to provide an authentic reflection of the complex societal dynamics at play, particularly as the new season develops.