The Last of Us Composer on Scoring Joel’s Death, Abby as a Villain

SPOILER ALERT: Major Events in Season 2 of “The Last of Us”

Season 2, Episode 2 of HBO’s “The Last of Us” has left fans reeling with the shocking events that transpired. From the bloody siege of Jackson to Joel’s tragic death at the hands of Abby, the episode was filled with intense moments that required a delicate musical touch.

Composer David Fleming, along with Gustavo Santaolalla, faced the challenge of creating a soundtrack that would complement the emotional and action-packed sequences in the episode. Their collaboration was crucial in crafting a score that would enhance the drama on screen.

During the siege of Jackson, Fleming utilized de-tuned cellos and bode banjos to create a tense and expansive soundscape. The music accompanied the townspeople as they fought off the infected, adding to the intensity of the scene.

One of the most thrilling moments in the episode was when Abby scaled the wall while being chased by a horde of clickers. Fleming’s goal was to maintain the high stakes of the scene without overshadowing the earlier events in the episode.

Santaolalla, who had worked on the game version of “The Last of Us,” brought his expertise to Joel and Ellie’s final heartbreaking goodbye. He incorporated themes from previous episodes to create an emotional peak that resonated with viewers.

Episode 2 also marked a turning point for Abby, who is portrayed as a complex character rather than a traditional villain. Fleming and Santaolalla aimed to capture her anger and pain without reducing her character to a one-dimensional antagonist.

As the series continues to draw inspiration from the game, Fleming acknowledges the importance of staying true to the source material while also allowing for creative deviations. The goal is to immerse viewers in the characters’ experiences without drawing attention to the music itself.

Overall, the music in “The Last of Us” plays a crucial role in enhancing the storytelling and emotional impact of the series. With Fleming and Santaolalla at the helm, fans can expect a soundtrack that elevates each moment to new heights.