The purpose of this edit is to re-conceptualize Season 1 of this amazing series into a two part feature film duology.
To inquire about this edit, email krausfadr at gmail dot com and include the word fanedit in the subject line.
This edit reorganizes the scenes for a more cohesive story, congruous concept and dramatic impact, removing a lot of extraneous filler material. While Season 1 was just plain outstanding (for the most part), it had substantial bloat. I consider this edit an improved, definitive version, and also a good way to watch it again before Season 2 is released—a very full story told in 5 hours instead of 8½ hours.
Overall, this edit is intended to be even more of a gut punch than the original. And the most important thing is: NO SHITTY PUNS WERE HARMED IN THE MAKING OF THIS FANEDIT.
Part 1
A retelling of Episodes 1 through 3
Original Runtime 3h 29m
Edited Runtime 2h 22m
Time Cut 1h 7m
Part 2
A retelling of Episodes 4 through 9
Original Runtime 5h 11m
Edited Runtime 2h 32m
Time Cut 2h 39m
Major Changes:
⦁ Scenes are kept moving along while still allowing PLENTY of breathing room. Much less filler scenes and dialogue.
⦁ New intro credits and opening visuals. Gave credit to one of the main original writers of the game who was omitted from receiving credit in the series.
⦁ Used some music from the game soundtrack
⦁ New dialogue added in a few scenes (Joel’s voice).
⦁ No more 1960’s television segment discussing the fungal threat. This conceptual introduction is done much better using the Indonesia footage.
⦁ Some minimal regrading and post production to make lower budget scenes look in league with the rest of the “movie.”
⦁ We get to post apocalyptic 2023 about 20 minutes into Part 1.
⦁ Some important information is withheld and then told in flashbacks for dramatic effect and to keep the story moving.
⦁ Joel has a bit harder edge and is more decisive and less wishy-washy around Tess. He also shows weakness but does not blubber on and on either like a total wimp. He can now be best described as a pessimist, no longer a defeatist.
⦁ Removed Robert in action. We only see him dead.
⦁ Removed side story of Joel selling narcotics. Also Joel drinks heavily but isn’t popping pills (it’s ok he was popping pills, they just overdid/overemphasized it).
⦁ Joel, Tess, and Ellie don’t have to backtrack after they escape the Quarantine Zone.
⦁ No Cumberland Farms visit.
⦁ The story of Bill and Frank is interwoven with the journey of Joel, Ellie, and Tess. Even with removing Joel and Tess visiting them at their compound, they feel more connected to the story now.
⦁ Part 2 is in a more compelling non-linear order to create rising action and conflict.
⦁ A lot of fluff happens in Episode 6 when Joel reaches Tommy’s commune. De-fluffed.
⦁ Digital removal of some of the various opening credits that happen over scenes.
⦁ Much much less Kathleen. They developed her character more for the series and she wasn’t all that compelling.
⦁ No second stop to rest in Kansas City with Joel, Ellie, Henry and Sam. Once they get going they’re going.
⦁ Cut Episode 7, Ellie’s backstory in the mall.
⦁ No older Native American couple.
⦁ Much much less cult leader speeches. We see a short glimpse of the hunger club.
⦁ More hard hitting ending that feels like an ending.
⦁ Custom redone end credits for Part 1 and Part 2.
SEE THE IFDB PAGE FOR A MORE COMPLETE CHANGE LIST