The Last of Us season 2 is finally here, and it takes us five years after the events of season 1, where Joel and Ellie are settling in Jackson. However, the past is not far behind, as the introduction of a new character, Abby, promises to stir up old wounds and ignite a quest for revenge.
In the opening episodes, viewers learn that Abby is out for blood. Initially shrouded in mystery, her motivations become clearer as the season progresses. Abby, a former member of the Fireflies, is mourning the loss of her father, a doctor whom Joel killed to protect Ellie in season 1. This brutal act sets the stage for Abby's vendetta, as she has spent years tracking Joel down to exact her revenge.
Episode 2, titled “Through the Valley,” reveals the extent of Abby’s determination. After a chance encounter where Joel saves her from a horde of zombies during a blizzard, Abby lures him into a trap. She has been part of a militia group known as the Washington Liberation Front (WLF) for five years, and her ultimate goal is to kill Joel for the death of her father. In a shocking turn, Abby shoots Joel in the knee and brutally attacks him with a golf club, ultimately stabbing him in the neck with the broken club, leaving viewers stunned.
This violent act is not just a plot twist; it serves as a critical moment in the series, highlighting the themes of revenge and the cycle of violence that permeate the narrative. The brutality of Joel’s death is hard to watch, and for fans who only know the story through the TV series, it feels like a gut punch. However, those familiar with the video game, The Last of Us Part II, may find the scene less shocking, as it mirrors events from the game.
As the episode unfolds, it juxtaposes Joel’s murder with a siege on Jackson, where the community faces an overwhelming horde of infected. The chaos of the attack on Jackson parallels Abby’s personal vendetta, emphasizing the collateral damage that revenge can cause. The show’s creators, Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, have crafted a narrative that not only develops Abby’s character but also deepens the conflict between her and Joel.
In the world of The Last of Us, where death is omnipresent, life becomes even more precious. Joel’s life, which has been filled with miraculous escapes, comes to a tragic end just as he begins to reconcile with Ellie. The emotional weight of his death is compounded by the fact that it happens early in the season, leaving fans to grapple with the loss of a beloved character.
Ellie, who is out on patrol with her friend Jesse during the events of the episode, learns of the danger Joel is in. She rushes back to find him, only to arrive in time to witness his brutal murder. Captured and pinned down, Ellie is forced to watch as Abby delivers the fatal blow. Her response is visceral; she vows to kill Abby and her group, setting the stage for a future confrontation.
Abby’s introduction and her violent actions raise questions about morality and justice in a world ravaged by a zombie apocalypse. The audience is left to ponder whether Abby is a villain or a victim of circumstance, driven by her desire for revenge. The narrative cleverly explores the idea that the line between hero and villain can blur, especially in a world where survival often comes at a cost.
The season also delves into the emotional turmoil within the characters. Joel’s relationship with Ellie is strained as they navigate their trauma and past mistakes. In a poignant moment, Ellie expresses her desire to reconnect with Joel, only to have that chance snatched away. This loss serves as a catalyst for Ellie’s transformation, pushing her towards a path of vengeance.
Additionally, the episode features thrilling action sequences, including a battle where Jackson’s residents defend against the undead. The tension of the siege parallels Abby’s personal conflict, showcasing how interconnected these characters’ fates truly are. The stakes are raised not just for Joel and Ellie but for the entire community of Jackson, emphasizing the far-reaching consequences of Abby’s quest for revenge.
As the season continues, viewers can expect to see how the dynamics between these characters evolve. Will Ellie succumb to the cycle of violence that Abby embodies, or will she find a way to break free from the past? The narrative promises to explore these themes deeply, reflecting on the nature of revenge and its impact on the human spirit.
In summary, the second season of The Last of Us dives into the complexities of revenge and the consequences of one’s actions. With Abby’s introduction, the show expands its narrative scope, forcing viewers to confront the moral ambiguities of its characters. As the story unfolds, fans are left to wonder how far the characters will go to seek justice and whether they can find redemption in a world filled with despair.
