HBO Max seemingly leaked the premiere window of The Last of Us.
Word began to spread across social media that the HBO Max app was specifying that the live-action adaptation of Naughty Dog's popular video game will release on Jan. 15, 2023. CBR investigated the claims, discovering that upon searching for The Last of Us, users are met with a brief description of a "sneak peek" video that reads, "A preview of the post-apocalyptic drama series based on the critically acclaimed video game. Premieres Jan. 15." At the time of writing, HBO has yet to formally acknowledge the date.
HBO's The Last of Us stars Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey as protagonists Joel and Ellie, a smuggler and his cargo, respectively, that are forced to fight for their lives as they venture across a post-apocalyptic America. The world is overrun by fungus-infected monsters known as "Clickers" that have resulted in society's collapse, prompting many to set up makeshift settlements or live within heavily fortified military cities. The original game, which was first released on the PlayStation 3 in 2013, earned almost universal praise from critics and players alike for its tense gameplay, compelling performances and powerful narrative.
What Do The Last of Us Stars Think?
Ramsey has previously stated that HBO's adaptation will retain the spirit and tone of The Last of Us game and in doing so will honor the source material. "I think people are going to love it. It very much follows the emotional beats of the game, and it's very respectful of the game and honors the game," Ramsey said. "But [the live-action series adaptation] brings a new life into it."
Despite her confidence in the series, Ramsey isn't shy to admit that she's never actually played The Last of Us. The Game of Thrones alum was specifically told to avoid the PlayStation classic so that she could put her own unique spin on Ellie without an outside influence. "I was actually encouraged not to. After my first audition, they asked me, 'Have you played it?' And I said 'nope,' and they said, 'Keep it that way,'" Ramsey explained.,
The Last of Us seemingly premieres on HBO Max on Jan. 15, 2023.
Source: CBR