Merle Dandridge discusses how the creators are fearless in deviating from the original canon to make The Last of Us series even more heartbreaking. The Last of Us is set in a world that has been ravaged by an outbreak of the Cordyceps fungus, which has wiped out the majority of the population and turned the infected into dangerous zombie-like carriers. The series follows Joel, a callous smuggler who has been tasked by the Fireflies with protecting and transporting Ellie safely across a zombie-infested America.
Dandridge is the only actor reprising her original video game role in the new series. Dandridge plays Marlene, the leader of the Fireflies, a militia group that opposes military control over the quarantine zones. Screen Rant and several other media outlets attended a press event for The Last of Us where Dandridge spoke about how the series is distinguishing itself from the game. She credits the work of series creators Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, who also created the game, with a fearlessness to deviate from established canon when it elevates the story.
Merle Dandridge: I think its fearlessness to deviate from the canon. And when it does that, it is more of the specific kind of pull at the heartstrings that only this world can do. And to see some of the characters in new scenarios that break your heart even more deeply for them is something that I don't know that people thought was even possible. So to get that opportunity and to know that with the hands of these creators and these artists, that there really isn't a limit to how much more you're going to get out of this world. It kind of makes you feel like every day's Christmas.
The Last Of Us Plots May Change, But Its Themes Remain
The original narrative of the game has earned acclaim from critics and fans alike. Mazin and Druckmann have spoken about staying faithful to the game while making changes that honor the story. Some of these changes will include scenes that Druckmann cut from the original game, which can further flesh out the characters and world of The Last of Us.
The narrative of the original game is shackled to the mechanics of gameplay, sticking primarily with Joel's and, at times, Ellie's perspective and focusing on fighting against clickers, the Cordyceps infected. The series has an opportunity to tell a more rounded story. The Last of Us series can shift perspectives, expanding upon supporting characters beyond their relationship with Joel and Ellie.
The series can show the perspective of Marlene and the Fireflies as well as characters that have been traditionally antagonists. The Hunters will be explored more thoroughly with new characters, bringing a new element to the more violent group of survivors. The Last of Us has many scenes that the creators will likely translate directly from the game, but knowing these characters more deeply while stepping away from video game mechanics allows the creators to make these moments hit even harder in the series.