In the latest episode of HBO’s acclaimed series "The Last of Us," the emotional weight of grief and revenge takes center stage as the characters grapple with the aftermath of Joel’s death. Episode 3 of Season 2, aptly titled "The Path," showcases the profound impact of loss on Ellie, played by Bella Ramsey, and Tommy, portrayed by Gabriel Luna, as they navigate their complex emotions in the wake of tragedy.
The episode opens just hours after the shocking murder of Joel, played by Pedro Pascal, at the hands of Abby, a character whose actions set off a chain reaction of vengeance. Tommy’s heart-wrenching farewell to Joel in a makeshift morgue resonates deeply. In a voice filled with exhaustion and sorrow, he utters, "Give Sarah my love," as he tenderly cleans Joel’s body, a moment that encapsulates the series' exploration of familial bonds and grief.
Gabriel Luna, who has received praise for his portrayal of Tommy, drew on his own experiences of loss to bring authenticity to this poignant scene. "I remember being the only one in that chapel, walking up to my grandfather’s coffin, and that’s what I had in my mind when I was shooting the scene," Luna reflected. His personal grief, including the loss of his grandfather in 2013, informed the emotional depth of his performance. This connection to real-life experiences makes the character's sorrow feel even more palpable.
As the narrative unfolds, the episode shifts three months ahead, revealing how both Ellie and Tommy continue to grapple with their grief. Despite the passage of time, the weight of Joel’s absence looms large. Ellie, struggling with PTSD, returns home to find a makeshift memorial for Joel, a stark reminder of her loss. She discovers Joel’s watch and gun, symbols of their shared past, igniting a desire for vengeance against Abby and her crew.
In the midst of this turmoil, Dina, played by Isabela Merced, emerges as a crucial support for Ellie. During a visit, she brings cookies as a peace offering and reveals that she knows the names of Abby’s crew and their whereabouts. This revelation sparks a heated discussion about seeking revenge, leading to a council meeting in Jackson to debate the proposed mission to hunt down Abby’s Washington Liberation Front (WLF) team.
Tommy, initially hesitant about the idea of a revenge mission, finds himself torn between his protective instincts for Ellie and the moral implications of such an act. "I think it’s really important to see the love in that, even though they’re expressing this love and this grief through intense violence," Luna noted, highlighting the complexities of their emotional landscape.
As the council convenes, the vote on the mission to pursue Abby ends in disappointment for Ellie and Tommy, with the majority opposing the plan. However, Ellie’s determination remains unshaken. She resolves to embark on a solo mission to confront Abby, a decision that underscores her deep-seated desire for retribution. Dina, recognizing the danger Ellie faces, decides to join her, setting the stage for a perilous journey ahead.
The themes of vengeance and the consequences of grief are further explored through the characters’ interactions. Luna emphasizes that Ellie and Tommy are bound together not just by their shared loss but also by a "thirst for vengeance" that complicates their relationship. This dynamic adds layers to their characters, illustrating how grief can manifest in destructive ways.
As the episode progresses, viewers witness Ellie’s emotional turmoil as she grapples with the duality of love and revenge. "If you’ve done something to hurt this person, I’m gonna go and hurt you. And I feel that that’s like the truest display of love," Ramsey articulated, encapsulating the moral ambiguity that permeates their actions.
The episode culminates in a powerful moment as Ellie visits Joel’s grave, leaving behind coffee beans—a symbolic gesture that reflects her love and longing. This act serves as a poignant reminder of the bond they shared, even as she prepares to step into a world of violence and uncertainty.
Throughout the episode, the performances of Luna and Ramsey shine, capturing the essence of their characters’ struggles. The emotional depth they bring to their roles resonates with audiences, making the story of "The Last of Us" not just a tale of survival but also a profound exploration of human connections in the face of overwhelming loss.
In interviews, Luna has expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to portray Tommy, a character that has evolved significantly from the video game. He appreciates the creative liberties taken by the show’s writers, which allow for a more nuanced exploration of Tommy’s character. "I told them, 'You know, it always rubbed me the wrong way that Tommy was knocked out, completely incapacitated during Joel’s murder.'" This input led to a reimagining of Tommy’s role, adding depth to his character as he navigates the complexities of family loyalty and moral responsibility.
The diversity of the cast and the richness of their stories contribute to the show’s appeal, drawing viewers into a world that reflects broader societal issues. Luna believes that the series resonates with audiences because it addresses themes of love, community, and the struggle for survival in a post-apocalyptic landscape.
As the season progresses, fans eagerly anticipate how Ellie and Tommy’s paths will unfold, particularly as they confront the moral dilemmas posed by their quest for vengeance. With each episode, "The Last of Us" continues to challenge viewers, inviting them to reflect on the nature of grief, love, and the choices we make in the face of unimaginable loss.
