The highly anticipated second episode of the second season of The Last of Us, titled A través del valle (Through the Valley), premiered on April 20, 2025, on Max and HBO, igniting conversations among fans with its intense narrative and shocking developments. This episode, directed by Mark Mylod, is a culmination of action, emotional drama, and a reflection on the themes of vengeance and violence, making it a pivotal moment in the series.
The episode opens with a haunting nightmare experienced by Abby (played by Kaitlyn Dever), a character introduced this season who is driven by a singular motivation: revenge against Joel (Pedro Pascal). The narrative quickly establishes that Abby is the daughter of Jerry Anderson, a surgeon killed by Joel in the first season while he was rescuing Ellie (Bella Ramsey) from a life-threatening situation. This backstory sets the stage for the intense conflict that unfolds.
As the episode progresses, viewers are treated to two intertwining storylines. One takes place in Jackson, Wyoming, where we see Joel and Dina (Isabela Merced) patrolling the area, while the other follows Abby and her group as they strategize their revenge. The tension builds as Abby and her companions observe Jackson from a distance, contemplating their next move against the fortified community.
Meanwhile, Ellie and Jesse (Young Mazino) are also out on patrol, unaware of the impending danger. As Abby ventures out, she encounters a horde of infected that had been buried under the snow, leading to a dramatic sequence where she is saved by Joel. This moment is crucial, as it not only highlights Joel's protective instincts but also sets up the tragic confrontation that follows.
The action escalates as the horde attacks Jackson, prompting Tommy (Gabriel Luna), Joel's brother, to lead the defense. The residents of Jackson prepare for battle, reminiscent of a medieval siege, as they burn and shoot the attackers. Despite their efforts, the infected manage to breach the defenses, resulting in a chaotic and brutal fight for survival.
In a shocking turn of events, the episode reaches its climax when Abby reveals her true intentions. After Joel and Dina take refuge with Abby's group, Abby shoots Joel in the leg, immobilizing him. The scene is harrowing as Abby, consumed by rage, begins to physically assault Joel with a golf club, torturing him as she seeks her revenge. This brutal act is not only shocking for viewers but also serves as a pivotal moment in the series, marking a significant shift in the narrative.
Ellie arrives just in time to witness the horrifying scene unfold. Despite her desperate attempts to save Joel, she is overpowered by Abby's group. The emotional weight of this moment is palpable as Ellie watches helplessly, pleading for Joel to survive. The impact of Joel's death reverberates throughout the episode, leaving viewers grappling with the consequences of vengeance and the cycle of violence it perpetuates.
As the episode concludes, Ellie, Dina, and Jesse return to Jackson with Joel's lifeless body, symbolizing the end of an era and the beginning of a new, darker chapter for Ellie. The weight of her loss and the vow for revenge set the stage for the upcoming episodes, as the series continues to explore the depths of human emotion and the consequences of violence.
This episode has not only captivated audiences with its gripping storytelling but has also sparked discussions about the themes of vengeance and morality. The creators, Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, have effectively woven together action and emotional drama, creating a narrative that resonates deeply with viewers.
As fans eagerly await the next episode, the events of A través del valle will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the series and its characters. The exploration of revenge and its consequences promises to be a central theme as the story unfolds, and viewers are left questioning the moral complexities of the characters they have come to love.
In summary, the second episode of The Last of Us season 2 delivers a powerful punch, combining thrilling action with profound emotional depth. The brutal death of Joel serves as a catalyst for the unfolding narrative, and as Ellie embarks on her quest for vengeance, audiences are left to ponder the true cost of revenge.
