The Last of Us season 2, episode 2, titled "Through the Valley," has left fans reeling after the shocking death of Joel (Pedro Pascal), a pivotal character in the series. This unexpected twist not only alters the trajectory of the show but also evokes a deep emotional response from viewers, both familiar and unfamiliar with the original video game.
From the outset, it was clear that the episode was about much more than just Joel's demise. His death, occurring so early in the season, was designed to disorient fans and provoke a visceral reaction. While many knew of this fate from the game, the impact of its execution on screen was still profoundly felt. As one viewer noted, "This single shot from #thelastofus is going to haunt me," capturing the essence of the emotional turmoil that has followed this development.
Set in a post-apocalyptic world where a fungal infection has ravaged humanity, The Last of Us follows Joel and Ellie (Bella Ramsey) as they navigate dangers and form a deep bond. Season 2 begins five years after Joel's violent actions in the first season finale, where he killed a group of scientists to save Ellie from being used as a test subject for a potential cure. The relationship between Joel and Ellie has since become strained, with both characters grappling with their past and the weight of their choices.
In "Through the Valley," the narrative escalates when Joel rescues Abby (Kaitlyn Dever), who is revealed to be the daughter of the doctor he killed. Abby's quest for revenge culminates in a brutal confrontation where she traps Joel, shooting him in the leg and delivering a savage beating with a golf club. Tragically, Ellie arrives too late to save him and is forced to witness Abby deliver the fatal blow.
Fans of the game had anticipated this sequence, but the visceral portrayal on television was still jarring. Even those familiar with the source material admitted, "They made it even worse in the show," highlighting the skillful direction that amplified the emotional stakes. The moment was a stark reminder of the show’s commitment to exploring complex themes of violence, revenge, and the consequences of one's actions.
Gabriel Luna, who plays Joel's brother Tommy, reflected on the weight of the moment, stating, "I try to frame it as: Their cage has opened. Now they’re free." His words suggest a bittersweet perspective on Joel's death, emphasizing the need to move forward while acknowledging the pain of loss. Luna drew from personal experiences of grief to inform his performance, making the emotional fallout feel authentic and relatable.
Showrunner Craig Mazin has drawn parallels between The Last of Us and another HBO series, Game of Thrones, known for its shocking character deaths. He expressed hope that audiences would remain engaged despite the drastic turn of events, stating, "It is incredibly important that by the time you get to the end of a season, you feel deeply satisfied." This sentiment underscores the show's commitment to storytelling that challenges viewers while still delivering an engaging narrative.
Yet, the question remains: How will the series maintain its momentum after losing such a central character? Some viewers have already expressed their discontent, with a number stating that Joel's death has led them to reconsider their investment in the show. As one fan lamented, "This is how it feels. Welcome to trauma city," reflecting the emotional toll this twist has taken.
Despite the challenges ahead, Bella Ramsey's portrayal of Ellie promises to carry the weight of the narrative. Her relationships with other characters, such as Tommy and Dina (Isabela Merced), will likely become crucial as she navigates the aftermath of Joel's death. The series has always been grounded in the exploration of human connections, and it will be interesting to see how these dynamics evolve in the absence of Joel.
As the season progresses, viewers can expect to see flashbacks that include Joel, allowing for moments of reflection and emotional resonance. The Last of Us has always been about more than just survival; it delves into themes of grief, loss, and the choices that shape us. Joel's actions, while controversial, have left an indelible mark on the world and the characters who inhabit it.
As the story unfolds, the pressure of Joel's legacy will weigh heavily on Ellie. The episode hints at her struggle to break free from the cycle of violence that has defined her upbringing. With the town of Jackson surviving the onslaught of infected, the question remains: at what cost? Joel's life has created a debt that Ellie must confront, and the path forward will be fraught with challenges.
New episodes of The Last of Us season 2 air weekly on Sundays at 9 PM EST on Max and HBO. As the narrative continues to evolve, fans will be watching closely to see how the series navigates the complexities of loss and the enduring impact of Joel's choices on the journey ahead.
