HBO’s “The Last of Us” quickly turned into a cultural sensation, transforming the gripping post-apocalyptic storyline from the popular video game into a highly praised TV show. Viewers were enthralled by its unsparing depiction of a world devastated by a fungal pandemic, yet even more so by the deeply emotional odyssey of Joel Miller (played by Pedro Pascal), a tough survivor, and Ellie (Bella Ramsey), an immune young girl who might hold the key to mankind’s survival. The series skillfully combined intense survival horror, morally ambiguous characters, and thought-provoking examinations of the extreme measures people take to safeguard what they value, all within a stunningly desolate American backdrop.
If the captivating tale of Joel and Ellie has left you yearning for more series that offer comparable emotional intensity, life-or-death survival situations, and introspective examinations of humanity under extreme pressure, then you’ve come to the right spot! The subsequent shows, although differing in their particular storylines, share a thematic connection with The Last of Us, be it through their post-catastrophe settings, their emphasis on intricate relationships that develop during crisis, or their unsparing depiction of both the best and worst aspects of human nature when society collapses.
1) Chernobyl
The miniseries “Chernobyl” provides an intricately detailed retelling of the 1986 nuclear catastrophe and the heroic attempts to manage its devastating aftermath. The series is supported by compelling performances, with Jared Harris portraying Valery Legasov, a physicist dealing with the magnitude of the crisis; Stellan Skarsgård as Boris Shcherbina, a government official overcoming administrative and political obstacles; and Emily Watson embodying Ulana Khomyuk, a composite character representing the collective bravery and intelligence of the numerous scientists working tirelessly to uncover the truth. Consequently, “Chernobyl” serves as a chilling portrayal of systemic flaw and the tragic human cost inflicted by deceit and institutional overconfidence.
In contrast to Chernobyl, which delves into a real-world disaster rather than a pandemic narrative, fans of The Last of Us might find striking similarities due to its intense focus on human drama amidst vast destruction. Those who cherished Joel and Ellie’s harrowing journey may find a profound connection in Chernobyl‘s portrayal of unwavering determination as characters face unfathomable forces. Both shows resonate strongly with themes of agonizing moral dilemmas that arise under immense pressure, and the stubborn resilience of the human spirit in the darkest times, a theme central to both narratives. Interestingly, both shows share Craig Mazin as their creator.
2) Station Eleven
Emily St. John Mandel’s novel, Station Eleven, paints a hopeful yet deeply emotional picture of a post-pandemic society, where the “Georgia Flu” has wiped out much of humanity. A recurring theme is the enduring importance of art and community in times of immense grief, providing a distinct survival story that can harmonize with the hard-nosed practicality found in The Last of Us. The series skillfully combines various timelines, focusing mainly on Kirsten Raymonde (portrayed by Mackenzie Davis and Matilda Lawler), a troupe member performing Shakespearean plays, as she journeys through a changed world while grappling with her past’s specters.
In a character-focused manner, Station Eleven delves into the transformative impact of trauma on individuals, inspiring them to construct new societies from the remnants of the past. This narrative offers a profound spiritual contrast to Joel and Ellie’s intense survival struggle in The Last of Us. For those who admired the evolving familial bonds within The Last of Us, and were deeply touched by its portrayals of tenacity and glimpses of humanity amidst a barren landscape, Station Eleven highlights themes of rebuilding, remembrance, and the pursuit of beauty.
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3) The Walking Dead
Essentially, “The Walking Dead” serves as a cornerstone of contemporary post-apocalyptic TV, plunging audiences into an ongoing tale about diverse bands of survivors battling through a world infested with zombies, known ominously as “walkers.” Throughout its long-running course, the show has seen numerous transformations; however, its early seasons, especially those focusing on Rick Grimes (Andrew Lincoln) and his original group of survivors, reflect the unyielding danger faced by Joel and Ellie in the first season of “The Last of Us.” In these shows, survival is a constant challenge, compounded by the twin threats posed by the undead horde and the often deceitful actions of other humans.
The Walking Dead delves deeply into storylines that The Last of Us similarly traverses, such as the emergence of unusual makeshift families and the harsh dilemmas involving moral quandaries. Beyond the physical battle against infected adversaries, the series presents a fearless analysis of society’s reconstruction efforts and the enduring or horrifyingly lost aspects of human nature when people are driven to their very limits.
4) Silo
In a future that feels all too real yet chills to the bone, the story of Silo unfolds as the last vestiges of humanity are confined within a massive underground metropolis, due to an unexplained catastrophe making Earth’s surface poisonous and uninhabitable. Inspired by Hugh Howey’s “Wool” series, the story follows Juliette Nichols (portrayed by Rebecca Ferguson), a resourceful engineer who, through her skepticism and technical expertise, uncovers dangerous secrets about the silo’s hidden past and the tightly controlled society that flourishes within its steel walls. Given this setup, the series skillfully builds tension through its oppressive atmosphere and the persistent enigma surrounding the true nature of the outside world and the origin of their subterranean sanctuary.
Viewers captivated by the heavy military tone and hidden secrets in “The Last of Us,” particularly Ellie’s relentless search for truth amidst danger, might find a similar gripping storyline in “Silo.” The series delves deeply into themes like emerging resistance against oppressive rule, the covert use of information to suppress societies, and an individual’s struggle for liberty and genuine comprehension. As such, “Silo” resonates with viewers who appreciate deep, speculative fiction, especially those who identify with characters striving for autonomy in confined environments.
5) Sweet Tooth
Based on the renowned comic book series by Jeff Lemire, titled Sweet Tooth, unfolds within a post-apocalyptic setting where a catastrophic virus known as “The Sick” has severely reduced the human population. This unfortunate event coincides with the appearance of hybrid children born from humans and animals. The story primarily follows Gus (Christian Convery), an innocent and sheltered young deer-boy, who sets out on a perilous journey across the country alongside a hesitant guardian, Tommy Jepperd (Nonso Anozie). Together, they seek a fresh start in a world altered by this calamity.
In contrast to the gritty realism of “The Last of Us”, “Sweet Tooth” employs a more playful and visually striking style, yet doesn’t avoid the dark threats and moral complexities inherent in its altered world. However, the core essence of “Sweet Tooth” revolves around the developing relationship between Gus and Jepperd, which carries much of the narrative’s emotional impact. Their journey across America, now transformed, is filled with unanticipated warmth, providing viewers with a story that seamlessly blends adventure, danger, and a heartwarming dose of hope and purity.
6) The Leftovers
Created by Damon Lindelof, The Leftovers explores the mysterious aftermath of an unexplained global event called the “Sudden Departure,” where 2% of Earth’s population vanished without warning or explanation. The show boasts powerful performances from Justin Theroux as Kevin Garvey, Carrie Coon as Nora Durst, and Amy Brenneman as Laurie Garvey. Unlike other shows that seek to explain the origin or workings of the Departure, The Leftovers chooses to concentrate on the complex feelings of those left behind: their deep sorrow, their relentless existential dilemmas, and the widespread societal collapse as they strive collectively and individually to find purpose in a world forever changed.
The Leftovers” is a thoughtful, character-focused television series that excels in exploring complex themes through ambiguity and sincere emotional depth. It portrays how people and societies adapt and change as they struggle with questions without simple solutions. Although not a typical survival story, it offers a deeply moving psychological exploration of surviving a world-shattering event. Fans of “The Last of Us” who appreciate narratives that delve into the intricacies of human resilience amid catastrophe will find a profound and thought-provoking journey in “The Leftovers“.
7) Yellowjackets
In a simpler and more natural manner,
The movie “Yellowjackets” tells an intricate story about a gifted girls’ soccer team from high school who miraculously survive a tragic plane crash in the Canadian wilderness during the 90s. The plot unfolds through two different time periods. One timeline depicts their grueling, 19-month ordeal of surviving in the wild, which eventually leads them to adopt primitive behaviors. The other timeline is set in the present day, showing how this traumatic event still affects the adult survivors, such as Shauna (Melanie Lynskey and Sophie Nélisse), Taissa (Tawny Cypress and Jasmin Savoy Brown), Natalie (Juliette Lewis and Sophie Thatcher), and Misty (Christina Ricci and Sammi Hanratty).
Yellowjackets delves deeply into the themes of trauma, the disintegration of societal rules in high-stress situations, and the ethically questionable actions individuals take to survive. The harrowing predicament of the characters and their hidden darkness offer a gripping portrayal of human tenacity and brutality, similarities that echo in The Last of Us. For those captivated by narratives that reveal the psychological impact of severe trauma and the unsettling examination of human capabilities when pushed to extreme limits, it promises an unnerving journey.
Which shows would you recommend to fans of The Last of Us?
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2025-06-12 20:11