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In the penultimate episode of HBO’sThe Last of Us, viewers are treated to Ellie getting some solo screentime. In the aftermath of Joel trying to survive a grave injury, Ellie is left to gather supplies out in the wild where she meets some new faces.
She meets David, the leader of a group of survivors, and James, played by Troy Baker, who originally played Joel in the game. According to Troy Baker, David is a reflection of what Joel could have been if things went the wrong way.
Troy Baker’s Idea of David Being Joel’s Reflection inThe Last of Us
In a recent interview withDeadline, Troy Baker discussed his portrayal of James in HBO’sThe Last of Usand reflected on how easily Joel could have turned out like David, the cannibalistic preacher.
David is a reflection of Joel. It is the wrong side of the coin because here’s someone who is looking out for those that he cares about and is willing to do whatever it takes to do that. So is Joel.
The series contrasts Joel’s dark side with David’s extreme survival methods, showing the fine line between protecting loved ones and slipping into moral depravity. David is essentially a dark mirror of what Joel could’ve been. They are both ruthless survivors whose only objective is to survive and protect what they care about.
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While Joel at least has the semblance of a conscience in the harsh world portrayed byThe Last of Us, David’s corruptness stems from his controlling and deceiving nature. Baker’s performance as James, David’s confused right-hand guy, shows the theme of how desperation may corrupt even the most well-intentioned people.
The thing that I realize is that what James wants more than anything is to be the right hand of David. Not because he admires him or respects him but because he understands who he is.
Baker says that the character he portrays has importance in the series in the fact that James is more than just a henchman but also a moral center. He is David’s right hand because he wants to be on the same side as someone he considers the devil.
Baker’s Experience in Getting to be a Part of The Live-Action Adaptation
Troy Bakeralso reflects on his collaboration withBella Ramsey, praising her talent and the intensity she brings to her portrayal of Ellie. He recalls a scene that was ultimately cut from the final episode, where James and Ellie have a non-verbal confrontation.
I am selfishly excited for people to see me in this episode, but I think what I’m most excited to see is this episode where Bella really gets to flex and show you exactly what Bella Ramsey is capable of, and it is terrifying.
The relationship between David and James parallels Joel and Ellie’s relationship, showing the complexity of survival and protection in a harsh environment. Baker says that each individual in the plot acts as a reflection or counterpoint to Joel and Ellie.
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The interview also touched on Baker’s initial reluctance towards a live-action adaptation ofThe Last of Us. He was eventually persuaded byNeil Druckmann, the co-director of the game and co-creator of the show, who believed that the story deserved a broader audience beyond gamers.
Baker revealed that he initially thought he would be cast as a clicker, a common enemy in the game, and was pleasantly surprised to play James instead. He discussed his approach to the character, aiming to portray James as more than just a henchman.
WatchThe Last of Uson Max.
Daniel Royte
Gaming Writer
Articles Published :1370
As part of the FandomWire team, Daniel has followed the hero-shooter genre closely with a focus on titles like VALORANT, Apex Legends, and Marvel Rivals. you may also find him providing insight on the latest AAA titles from Elden Ring to GTA 6 and exploring the world of gacha games like Genshin Impact and Wuthering Waves. With more than 1,000 articles under his belt, you’ll need to look no further for a unique insight into every situation.If he’s not looking for the latest video game news, you’ll find him cheering on Ferrari in the race tracks of Formula 1 or at the theatres for the latest MCU releases.
