The decision to make Sam deaf in the show adds intimacy and quiet moments to the narrative, deviating from the game.
Finding a young deaf actor like Kivon Woodward for the role of Sam was challenging but his exceptional performance adds authenticity to the character.
The production of the cul-de-sac sequence was complex, with visual effects used to create terrifying infected creatures like the bloater and child clicker.
Deep dives
The importance of showcasing violence in the opening
The podcast episode discusses the decision to start the episode with a violent scene and explores the significance of portraying the aftermath of the fallen federal hospital.
The portrayal of Henry and Sam
The podcast delves into the changes made in the show regarding the characters of Henry and Sam, including Sam being deaf and how this decision adds intimacy and quiet moments to the narrative.
The challenges of casting and finding the perfect Sam
The podcast highlights the difficulties in finding a young actor who is both talented and deaf for the role of Sam, and emphasizes the exceptional performance and natural talent of Kivon Woodward.
The dynamics of honesty and protecting loved ones
The podcast explores the themes of honesty and protection in the episode, analyzing the difficult decision Henry has to make in revealing the truth to Sam about their situation.
The intense cul-de-sac sequence and visual effects
The podcast discusses the challenging and complex production of the cul-de-sac sequence, including the use of visual effects by Weta FX to create terrifying infected creatures like the bloater and child clicker.
Host Troy Baker and Showrunners Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann unpack Episode 5. They talk about why they made Sam deaf in the show, a departure from the game, and how they cast the role. In discussing the stories of Sam (Keivonn Woodard) and Henry (Lamar Johnson), Neil and Craig continue to dig into the theme of parental love. Also, Neil gives a 101 on the various Infected you see on screen–Bloaters and all. HBO’s The Last of Us podcast is produced by HBO and Pineapple Street Studios.
