The latest episode of The Last of Us has drawn comparisons to one of Game of Thrones’ most intense battle sequences—Season 5’s Hardhome. Co-showrunner Craig Mazin recently revealed that the chaotic, emotionally charged nature of Hardhome served as a major inspiration for the episode’s climactic battle. In a recent interview, Mazin explained how the HBO fantasy epic influenced the way The Last of Us approached large-scale action while maintaining deep emotional stakes.
Quick read:
- Game of Thrones’ Hardhome inspired the latest episode of The Last of Us by blending large-scale action with deep emotional stakes.
- The infected attack on Jackson mirrors Hardhome’s overwhelming undead battle, creating tension and desperation.
- Co-showrunner Craig Mazin emphasized that action should serve the story, just as Hardhome did.
The Parallels Between Hardhome and The Last of Us
Mazin pointed out that Hardhome wasn’t just about spectacle—it was about the emotional weight of the battle. He specifically referenced the moment when the Night King silently raises his arms, turning the fallen Free Folk into wights, as one of the most haunting sequences in television history. Similarly, The Last of Us aimed to balance thrilling action with moments of quiet devastation. The latest episode features a massive infected attack on Jackson, mirroring the overwhelming force of the undead in Hardhome. The survivors fight desperately, but the sheer scale of the attack leaves them with little hope.
Credits: HBO Max
Craig Mazin’s Take on Hardhome’s Influence
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Mazin acknowledged the impact of Hardhome on his approach to action sequences. Mazin emphasized that action should always serve the story, rather than exist for spectacle alone. He stated, “What stood out to me the most in that episode wasn’t just the action, but the emotional moments—the way the Night King stared down Jon Snow, the way Karsi’s fate unfolded. That’s what we wanted to capture in our episode.”
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