The Last of Us Season 2: Bella Ramsey and Isabela Merced on Filming the Show’s Darkest Moments
The highly anticipated second season of HBO’s hit series The Last of Us has been making waves among fans, particularly with its portrayal of intense and emotional scenes. According to an interview with CBR, Bella Ramsey, who plays the lead character Ellie, and Isabela Merced, who plays Dina, opened up about their experiences filming the show’s most challenging moments.
As reported by CBR, the season focuses on the horrific act of violence that occurs when Joel, played by Pedro Pascal, is killed by Abby, played by Kaitlyn Dever. Merced’s character Dina is present but unconscious during the killing, which sets off a chain of events as she and Ellie embark on a quest for revenge. In an interview with Rob McElhenney, Merced revealed how she handled the harrowing scenes, crediting Ramsey for her support throughout the process.
"Bella gave me everything I needed in every single scene to be able to do what I did," Merced said. "It wouldn’t have been half as successful or complete had it not been for our work together. There were just moments where I felt like I was losing it and Bella was the only person I had to support me because Bella was the only one who really understood, so there was solidarity and support in every take. Our performances relied so heavily on the other person."
Ramsey also shared their own insights into the show’s narrative, particularly the complex relationship between Ellie and Joel. "I think [Ellie] was someone who already struggled to trust," they said. "To have that taken away from her by the person she loves the most, I think that really altered her brain chemistry a bit. So she comes into this season, particularly after [his death], and she has a single-minded focus of, like, this person she loved so much who hurt her so much, she just has to do anything to try and heal from the grief of all of that."
As CBR reported, the chemistry between Ellie and Dina was a highlight of the season, with fans praising the show’s portrayal of their relationship. Ramsey acknowledged the fans’ enthusiasm, saying, "If you saw yourself in that, then it really was for you. Even though that relationship gets sort of dark, I hope that it was a light and a joyful kind of touch to The Last of Us and I think that the way it was so masterfully woven into the story didn’t feel like a checkbox exercise or representation for the sake of it."
The relationship between Ellie and Dina was widely praised by fans and critics alike, with many appreciating the show’s nuanced and realistic portrayal of a same-sex relationship. As CBR noted, Ramsey and Merced will both be returning for The Last of Us season 3, which is expected to explore more of Abby’s backstory and motivations.
In the meantime, fans can stream The Last of Us on Max. The show has received widespread critical acclaim for its thought-provoking narrative and outstanding performances. With Ramsey and Merced’s insights into the show’s filming process, fans can gain a deeper appreciation for the series and its characters.
According to CBR, Ramsey also found one scene in particular to be especially challenging, as they had to cry on cue. The show’s portrayal of complex emotions and relationships has resonated with audiences, making it a standout series in the world of television.
The second season of The Last of Us has been widely anticipated, and it seems that the show’s creators have delivered on their promise of an emotionally charged and intense viewing experience. With CBR providing an in-depth look at the show’s filming process, fans can gain a deeper understanding of the series and its characters.
