THE THINGS WE DO FOR LOVE – A Fan Short Film Inspired by The Last of Us Part II
Hello there!
We’re a group of young, passionate filmmakers from Cologne, Germany, currently working on a non-profit short film titled THE THINGS WE DO FOR LOVE – a live-action fan adaptation inspired by The Last of Us Part II.
Our goal is not to tell an entirely new or original story, but to reimagine the emotional core and narrative themes of Part II in a cinematic short film format. We’re drawing directly from the game’s powerful story, focusing on its most human elements—grief, vengeance, love, and the painful consequences of our choices.
This is a personal and respectful tribute. Through our own interpretation and perspective, we want to shed light on the heart of Part II, and bring its emotional intensity into a new medium.
About the Film:
In a broken world where survival often comes at the cost of compassion, Ellie is pushed down a path defined by loss, pain, and the pursuit of justice.
As she struggles with what’s been taken from her, she’s forced to make choices that ask not only what love is—but what it demands.
This short film blends adapted moments from Part II with original elements, all crafted to stay true to the tone, world, and characters we deeply admire.
Why This Story?
The story of The Last of Us—especially Part II—has left a lasting impression on us.
Its emotional complexity, raw performances, and the way it challenges our perceptions of right and wrong have made it one of the most meaningful narratives we’ve ever experienced.
In this adaptation, we explore love in its many faces:
- Love as healing
- Love as hope
- Love as destruction
We want to create something that honors what The Last of Us Part II stands for: a story about contradiction, consequence, and humanity.
This is a labor of love—non-profit, unpaid, and driven purely by passion.
Production Details:
We have finished shooting the movie in July and Post-production is now starting.
But this doesn't mean we are no longer in need of support. The Post-production process is very intense and complicated and requires a lot of people, time and tech to get to a highly professional level. With your support we can get access to assets and technology that we need to accomplish our goal.
Funding Goal: €5,000
While professional film productions often run into the millions, we’re creating this on a micro-budget, because:
1. Everyone is working unpaid
2. We’re investing our own private funds
3. We just need support for essential expenses like:
- Camera & lighting equipment
- Costumes & props
- Makeup & special effects
- Vehicle rentals & set dressing
- Food & transport for cast and crew
- Post-production
€5,000 helps us cover the final gap to make this dream real.
Who Is This For?
This project is for:
- Fans of the original
- Lovers of emotional, action-driven stories
- Supporters of independent film and fan art
- Anyone who believes in the power of passion and storytelling
Why Support Us?
Your support fuels:
- Creativity and ambition
- Independent art
- Emerging filmmakers taking their next big step
This is more than a film. It’s a chance for 30 creatives to grow, learn, and build something meaningful together.
By backing this project, you’re helping launch the next generation of storytellers.
Support passion. Support storytelling. Support THE THINGS WE DO FOR LOVE.
Corporate Sponsors Welcome:
Businesses can deduct donations as marketing expenses. All sponsors will be credited in the film’s end credits.
Meet the Team:
Directors – Luis Fernández & Jason Philipp
We’ve been creating short films together for 3 years, driven by our shared love for cinematic storytelling.
This fan film is a heart project—born out of our admiration for The Last of Us and our passion for directing with detail, emotion, and ambition.
Assistant Director – Daniel Scharnowski
This script immediately pulled me in. Bringing this world to life through our own lens is a dream I’m grateful to pursue.
Director of Photography – Moritz Michel
I've been working behind the camera since I was 15. This is a chance to push boundaries with a team I trust and grow alongside.
Producer – Eric Nitschke
Film is the most powerful way to move people emotionally. This story has ignited something in me, and I want to help others feel it too.
Team Credits & Experience
Our directors Luis and Jason previously produced another fan short film within this universe as part of the “Drehzeug” podcast.
Their film “DRUCK (Pressure)” won the Baden-Baden Award 2024, with several current team members involved in that project as well.
Final Words:
We’re doing this for the love of storytelling.
We want to honor the world of the original and craft something raw, emotional, and unforgettable.
We can’t wait to share this journey with you.
Join us. Back us. Believe in us.
Let’s bring THE THINGS WE DO FOR LOVE to life.
Donate now and be part of something beautiful.
Thank you!