Why did she kiss the zombie in The Last of Us?
The question that has been on the minds of many fans of the popular video game-turned-TV-series, The Last of Us. In a shocking scene, Tess, a human character, allowed a zombie to kiss her on the lips, infecting her with the deadly Cordyceps fungus. But why did she make this fateful decision? In this article, we’ll dive into the details of this pivotal moment and explore the possible reasons behind Tess’s actions.
The Infection
First and foremost, it’s essential to understand the premise of the game and series. In a post-apocalyptic world, a mutated fungus known as Cordyceps has taken over, infecting humans and turning them into mindless, violent creatures. The infection is transmitted through bites and contact with contaminated bodily fluids. To survive, humans must take extreme precautions to avoid contact with infected individuals.
Tess’s Situation
In the scene where Tess kisses the zombie, she is faced with a precarious situation. She has just been bitten by an infected person and knows that her time is running out. Tess is dying and knows that she has no choice but to end her life. Instead of waiting for the fungus to take over, she decides to take matters into her own hands and seeks out an infected individual who can end her suffering. By kissing the zombie, Tess is essentially choosing death over a slow and painful demise.
The Sacrifice
Tess’s decision to kiss the zombie is not just a futile attempt to end her suffering; it’s also a sacrifice to protect her friends. By infecting herself, Tess knows that she is putting others at risk of infection, but she is willing to take that chance to save the people she cares about. This act of selflessness is a testament to Tess’s character and her commitment to those she loves.
The Dramatic Effect
The kiss between Tess and the zombie is not just a brutal and intense moment; it’s also a masterclass in storytelling. The scene is expertly crafted to evoke a sense of dread and horror in the viewer, making them feel the weight of Tess’s situation. The image of a human kissing a zombie is a powerful commentary on the desperation and humanity’s ability to find dignity in even the most desolate situations.
Comparing to Real-Life Cancer Patients
In an eerie parallel to Tess’s situation, real-life cancer patients often face similar choices and sacrifices. Patients diagnosed with terminal illnesses may have to weigh the risks and benefits of treatment, weighing the quality of life against the likelihood of survival. Just as Tess sacrifices her life to protect others, many patients make tough decisions about their own life and treatment options.
Conclusion
The kiss between Tess and the zombie is a powerful and haunting scene that has left fans of the game and series reeling. By exploring the reasons behind Tess’s actions, we gain a deeper understanding of the characters and their motivations. The sacrifice Tess makes is a poignant reminder of the human cost of war, disease, and tragedy. Ultimately, the scene serves as a powerful commentary on the human condition, highlighting the resilience and sacrifice that we are capable of in the face of adversity.
Additional Insights
- Did you know that the character of Tess was originally written to die in the first game? The story was reworked to focus on Ellie’s journey, but Tess’s sacrifice was retained to add depth and emotional resonance to the story.
- The actors who played Tess and Joel, Ashley Johnson and Merle Dandridge, respectively, have spoken publicly about the emotional toll of filming this scene. Both actors have praised the scene for its impact and the importance of exploring these themes in the story.
In Conclusion
Tess’s kiss with the zombie is a pivotal and haunting moment in The Last of Us. By examining the motivations behind her actions, we gain a deeper understanding of the characters and their humanity. This scene serves as a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to evoke emotions and spark important discussions.