The Last of Us Season 2, Episode 5: An In-Depth Review
In the latest episode of “The Last of Us,” the complexities of Ellie and Joel’s relationship continue to unravel. Season 2 opens with Ellie confronting Joel about the validity of his past actions involving the Fireflies in the Salt Lake City hospital. Their initial interaction sets the tone for the tension that permeates throughout the episode.
Confrontations and Consequences
Ellie’s plea for assurance from Joel—asking him to swear the truth about his past—highlights her inner turmoil and suspicion. While Joel reassures her, his conviction seems overshadowed by her lingering doubt. The emotional weight of their unresolved issues manifests in the silent feud they appear to share, with Ellie harboring resentment that remains unexplained.
Following Joel’s death, Ellie finds herself engulfed in grief and anger, intensifying the need for revenge. A pivotal conversation occurs when Gail (Catherine O’Hara) questions Ellie, calling her a “liar.” This label raises significant questions about Ellie’s honesty with herself and others. Is she lying about knowing the truth? Or is she merely presenting a façade to convince herself of her purpose?
The Cycle of Violence
The episode explores the ramifications of Ellie’s quest for vengeance, particularly after learning about Joel’s past actions. She confronts Nora (Tati Gabrielle), expressing a chilling awareness of Joel’s violence, yet the implications of this knowledge remain complex. Does her acknowledgment of Joel’s actions serve to justify her violent path, or does it deepen her moral conflict?
Character Development and Dynamics
Ellie’s dynamic with Dina (Isabela Merced) presents another layer of the story. The two women face challenges that test their commitment to their mission and to one another. A poignant moment occurs when Ellie hesitates upon seeing a mural depicting the aftermath of violence, questioning the morality of their quest. Despite this, Dina’s resolve reinforces Ellie’s determination to continue, even in the face of uncertainty.
Key Themes and Takeaways
- Grief and Rage: Ellie’s emotional journey showcases how grief can morph into a desire for revenge, complicating her relationship with Joel.
- Truth and Lies: The episode raises essential questions about the nature of honesty in the context of trauma, betrayal, and self-deception.
- Moral Ambiguity: Eleanor’s choice to pursue revenge invites viewers to ponder the ethical implications of her actions and the cycle of violence.
A Glossary of Symbols
Several symbolic elements appear throughout Episode 5. The mural serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of violence, while Ellie’s encounters with Nora provide a physical manifestation of her inner conflict. The careful framing of action sequences and character interactions evokes a sense of escalating tension, underscoring the themes of retribution and survival.
Conclusion
In Episode 5 of “The Last of Us,” the narrative deepens as characters navigate their tangled emotions and moral dilemmas. This episode not only furthers the central storyline but also invites viewers to consider the broader themes of love, loss, and the price of vengeance. As the series continues, the exploration of Ellie’s evolution promises to be both compelling and complex.
The episode airs on Sundays at 9 p.m. ET on HBO and Max.