The Last of Us continues to explore the emotional aftermath of Joel's death in its latest episode, weaving together themes of grief, revenge, and the complexities of relationships in a post-apocalyptic world. As Jackson grapples with the loss of a beloved figure, Ellie and Dina embark on a harrowing journey to Seattle, seeking justice for Joel while navigating their evolving bond.
In the opening scene of the episode, the camera lingers on a somber Tommy (Gabriel Luna) as he visits the morgue to see his brother Joel's (Pedro Pascal) body. The weight of the moment is palpable as Tommy cleans Joel's arm, noticing the broken watch that had been a gift from his daughter Sarah (Nico Parker). Tommy's quiet farewell, "Give Sarah my love," encapsulates the depth of their relationship and the tragedy of loss.
Meanwhile, Ellie (Bella Ramsey) awakens in a bustling hospital, still reeling from her injuries sustained during the battle in Jackson. The trauma of witnessing Joel's murder at the hands of Abby (Kaitlyn Dever) resurfaces, causing her to scream until she is sedated. The episode then jumps forward three months, revealing Ellie’s physical recovery, but emotional scars remain.
Upon her release from the hospital, Ellie meets with Gail (Catherine O’Hara), who conducts a mental health assessment. Ellie attempts to mask her grief, insisting that her final moments with Joel shouldn't define their relationship. However, Gail presses her, hinting at unresolved feelings and regrets that linger beneath the surface. "In my last moment with Joel, he said he wronged you. Maybe bad," Gail states, prompting Ellie to question what Joel meant.
As Ellie navigates her grief, she returns to Joel's home, where memories flood back. Among the belongings, she finds Joel's broken watch and his signature revolver, symbols of their complicated relationship. This moment is a stark reminder of the love and loss that define her journey. Dina (Isabela Merced) arrives with cookies and a revelation: she knows the names of most of Abby's crew, members of the Washington Liberation Front (W.L.F.). This information sets the stage for Ellie and Dina's mission of vengeance.
Ellie and Dina seek Tommy's help, but the Jackson council ultimately votes against sending a group to avenge Joel, emphasizing the need for mercy and the fragility of their community. "We are too hurt, and it is too soon," one council member argues. Ellie passionately defends her desire for justice, stating, "If we do nothing, no one will do anything because no one else is fighting for Jackson." However, her plea falls on deaf ears, leaving her feeling isolated and unsupported.
Determined to find Joel's killers, Ellie prepares to leave for Seattle on her own. Dina, unwilling to let her go alone, insists on joining her. Their bond deepens as they share moments of vulnerability and humor, balancing the weight of their mission with the complexities of their relationship. In a poignant scene, Ellie and Dina pause at Joel's grave, where Ellie offers coffee beans, a tribute to Joel's love for coffee.
As they journey toward Seattle, Dina brings up the kiss they shared at Jackson's New Year’s dance, prompting Ellie to rate it a "6" on a scale of 1 to 10. This playful banter reveals the tension between them, as both grapple with their feelings amidst the chaos of their surroundings. Dina's comment, "I wasn't that high," suggests a deeper connection and desire for intimacy, hinting at the potential for their relationship to evolve.
Upon arriving in Seattle, the duo stumbles upon the aftermath of a massacre involving the Seraphites, a religious group in conflict with the W.L.F. The sight of decomposing bodies serves as a grim reminder of the violence that permeates their world. As they venture further into the city, they encounter Manny (Danny Ramirez) communicating with another W.L.F. soldier from the top of the Space Needle, revealing the scale of the threat they face.
Despite the looming danger, Ellie and Dina's journey is marked by moments of levity and connection. Their banter, as they joke about the action movie lines Ellie tries to deliver, showcases a bond that transcends the horrors around them. Yet, the reality of their situation weighs heavily on them, as the final scenes reveal the W.L.F. as a well-trained unit, equipped with military-grade weapons and armor.
The episode concludes with a sense of foreboding, as Ellie and Dina prepare to confront the challenges ahead. The emotional stakes are high, and the audience is left to ponder the complexities of revenge, justice, and the bonds that form in the face of tragedy. As the series continues to unfold, viewers are reminded of the intricate tapestry of relationships that define The Last of Us, making it a compelling exploration of humanity in a world ravaged by loss.
