In The Last of Us episode 3, titled “Long, Long Time,” we witness a deeply moving and largely standalone story that focuses on the unexpected and enduring love between Bill (Nick Offerman), a hardened survivalist, and Frank (Murray Bartlett), a charming and optimistic traveler, as they build a life together in a quarantined Massachusetts town after the initial outbreak. Their relationship, fraught with both tender moments and fundamental disagreements, ultimately ends in a shared suicide on their own terms, a stark contrast to the chaotic and violent world outside their fortified home.
A Love Story Forged in the Apocalypse
Episode 3 departs significantly from the game’s narrative, offering a much deeper and more nuanced exploration of Bill and Frank’s relationship. While the game portrays Bill as a paranoid and somewhat unpleasant survivalist who reluctantly helps Joel and Ellie, the HBO adaptation presents him as a complex character capable of immense love and devotion, albeit hidden beneath layers of cynicism and distrust.
The episode begins with Frank stumbling into one of Bill’s traps, triggering a series of events that lead to a cautiously forged partnership. Bill, initially resistant to human connection, is slowly won over by Frank’s warmth and openness. We see them sharing meals, renovating houses, and even arguing about decorating – all within the confines of Bill’s meticulously fortified town.
Their relationship isn’t without its challenges. Frank craves connection with the outside world, while Bill is fiercely protective of their isolation. Their differing personalities often clash, but ultimately, their love for each other is strong enough to overcome these differences.
As the years pass, we witness their life together evolving, marked by both joy and quiet routines. However, the inevitable march of time and the harsh realities of their world eventually catch up with them. Frank, suffering from a degenerative disease, decides he wants to die on his own terms, with Bill by his side. Bill, heartbroken at the prospect of losing Frank, chooses to join him in a final act of defiance against the relentless despair of the apocalypse.
Their shared death isn’t portrayed as a tragic failure, but rather as a testament to their love and a victory over the forces that seek to strip them of their humanity. They chose their own ending, a rare luxury in a world where death is often sudden, brutal, and meaningless. Before they pass, they leave behind a note for Joel and Tess, offering them a safe haven and a reminder that life, even in the face of unimaginable hardship, is still worth fighting for.
Themes of Love, Isolation, and Choice
“Long, Long Time” is a powerful exploration of several key themes:
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The Power of Love in the Face of Despair: The episode demonstrates that even in the most bleak circumstances, love can flourish and provide meaning. Bill and Frank’s relationship offers a glimmer of hope in a world seemingly devoid of it.
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The Consequences of Isolation: While Bill initially believes that isolation is the key to survival, he ultimately learns that connection and companionship are essential for a fulfilling life. Frank’s presence brings joy and purpose to Bill’s existence, and their relationship provides a refuge from the horrors of the outside world.
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The Right to Choose One’s Own Destiny: Frank’s decision to end his life on his own terms is a powerful statement about agency and control in a world where both are often absent. Bill’s decision to join him underscores the depth of their love and their shared desire to defy the forces that seek to dictate their lives.
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The Enduring Human Spirit: Despite the overwhelming challenges they face, Bill and Frank manage to create a life filled with love, laughter, and purpose. Their story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and its capacity for connection, even in the darkest of times.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Last of Us Episode 3
Here are some common questions about The Last of Us episode 3, “Long, Long Time”:
What’s the Significance of the Title “Long, Long Time”?
The title “Long, Long Time” refers to a song by Linda Ronstadt that plays a crucial role in the episode. It’s a song that Frank chooses on Bill’s piano, and it becomes a symbol of their growing connection and the enduring nature of their love. The lyrics, which speak of loneliness and finding love unexpectedly, resonate deeply with their story.
How Does Episode 3 Differ From the Game’s Version of Bill and Frank?
The most significant difference is the depth of their relationship. In the game, Frank is already dead when Joel and Ellie encounter Bill. Frank’s death is hinted to be caused by an argument with Bill, implying a less loving and more tumultuous relationship. The show significantly expands on their backstory, portraying them as deeply in love and choosing to die together.
Why Did Bill and Frank Choose to Die Together?
Frank was suffering from a degenerative disease and wanted to die on his own terms, while he still had some control over his body and mind. Bill, unwilling to face a life without Frank, chose to join him, demonstrating the profound depth of their love and commitment to one another. They wanted to choose their end, rather than succumbing to the horrors of the post-apocalyptic world.
What Message Did Bill and Frank Leave for Joel and Tess?
The note contained a heartfelt message essentially telling Joel to help someone. Bill writes that he hated everyone before Frank showed up, and he tells Joel that perhaps he can feel something similar with the person he cares about. They also leave behind a fully functioning truck and supplies, a significant aid in Joel and Ellie’s journey.
What Does This Episode Say About the Meaning of Family?
Episode 3 redefines the concept of family, showing that it doesn’t necessarily have to be based on blood relation. Bill and Frank create their own family through their love and commitment to one another, demonstrating that family can be found in unexpected places and take many different forms.
How Does This Episode Impact Joel and Ellie’s Journey?
While seemingly a standalone story, Episode 3 profoundly impacts Joel and Ellie’s journey. It softens Joel, reminding him of the importance of human connection and the potential for love, even in the face of immense loss. It also offers them crucial resources and a vehicle that advances their quest.
What are the Symbolism Behind the Strawberry Patch?
Frank introduces the idea of the strawberry patch, representing hope and a desire for a better future. Despite Bill’s initial pessimism, he dedicates himself to nurturing the garden, reflecting his growing love for Frank and his embrace of a more optimistic outlook on life. It symbolizes their effort to create beauty and sustenance in a desolate world.
Why Was This Episode So Critically Acclaimed?
“Long, Long Time” received widespread critical acclaim for its emotionally resonant storytelling, its nuanced portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters, and the powerful performances of Nick Offerman and Murray Bartlett. The episode’s themes of love, loss, and the enduring human spirit resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike.
Did This Episode Affect The Last of Us Series’ Viewership?
Yes, the episode significantly boosted viewership for the series. The powerful word-of-mouth and critical acclaim drove more viewers to watch, solidifying The Last of Us as a television phenomenon.
How Does this Episode Contribute to the Worldbuilding of The Last of Us?
Episode 3 expands the world of The Last of Us beyond the immediate threat of the infected. It shows us how different people have adapted to the apocalypse, highlighting the diverse ways in which individuals and communities cope with loss, trauma, and the struggle for survival. It emphasizes that survival isn’t just about avoiding the infected, but also about maintaining one’s humanity.
What Did the Actors Say About Their Roles?
Nick Offerman and Murray Bartlett have both spoken extensively about the emotional depth of their roles and the importance of telling this particular story. They both expressed feeling a great responsibility to portray their characters with authenticity and sensitivity.
Will We See Bill and Frank Again in Future Episodes?
While Bill and Frank’s story concludes in Episode 3, their impact on Joel and Ellie’s journey will likely continue to be felt throughout the series. The lessons learned from their story, the resources they left behind, and the reminder of the importance of human connection will undoubtedly shape Joel and Ellie’s choices and actions as they navigate the dangers of the post-apocalyptic world. Their legacy lives on through Joel and Ellie.