In the sixth episode of The Last of Us, titled “Kin,”Joel (played by Pedro Pascal) and Ellie (portrayed by Bella Ramsey) finally discover a moment of tranquility in the expansive American West. This newfound peace prompts Joel to grapple with the emotional bond he is forming with Ellie, subtly indicating that their relationship has evolved beyond mere survival. Set three months after the harrowing events in Kansas City that claimed key characters, the series embraces a distinct shift in tone as the duo transitions from the chaos of the East into the serene yet stark snowy landscapes of the West.
Episode 6 marks a pivotal turning point for Joel and Ellie as they begin to process the emotional toll of their journey. Having narrowly escaped numerous dangers, it becomes clear that their struggles are no longer solely against external threats. Instead, they face an awakening to their growing familial bond—a development that ignites both fear and recognition between them.
Ellie and Joel Encounter Strangers in the Wilderness
Florence and Marlon Extend Their Hospitality
As Joel and Ellie navigate their path, they unexpectedly discover a cabin tucked away in the wilderness. Both cautiously aware of their surroundings, they draw their weapons upon their entrance, but soon find themselves in the company of Florence (Elaine Miles) and her husband Marlon (Graham Greene). These two newcomers to the series provide a refreshing contrast to the harsh realities the protagonists have previously encountered.
While sharing a meal with the couple, Joel and Ellie find solace in the knowledge that their hosts have not seen any infected or hostile forces nearby. However, the mention of the ominous “River of Death,”with its haunting shoreline dotted with corpses, tempers their relief, indicating that danger still lurks nearby.
Florence and Marlon’s presence highlights a rare glimpse of normalcy amidst the chaos. As Joel and Ellie engage with them, it becomes clear that pockets of the world still endure untouched by the infection. This realization hints at a narrative pivot in the episodes to come, suggesting a shift from relentless tension to more complex character explorations.
Joel Reunites with His Brother Tommy in Jackson, Wyoming
Tommy and Maria Are Expecting
Upon crossing the foreboding River of Death, Joel and Ellie find themselves confronted by a group of armed riders, each shrouded in mystery. Fortune smiles upon them as Joel’s name grants them entry into the fortified community of Jackson, Wyoming. Here, they discover that the masked leader is none other than Maria (Rutina Wesley), who is married to Tommy (Gabriel Luna), Joel’s brother whom he thought was lost forever.
The emotional reunion between Joel and Tommy is tender and poignant, as both men express their relief at being together again after believing they had lost one another. As Tommy gives Joel and Ellie a tour of Jackson, they delve into discussions about their turbulent pasts, punctuated by moments of déjà vu and reflection. In contrast to Joel’s view that their decisions were necessary for survival, Tommy reflects with remorse, believing there could have been alternative paths—something reflective of the peaceful life blossoming in Jackson.
Tommy’s announcement that he and Maria are expecting a child sends Joel into an anxious spiral. This moment not only underscores the protective instincts than Joel harbors towards Ellie but also reveals the emotional turmoil he grapples with regarding his role as a guardian. During a revealing conversation with Tommy, Joel confides his fears about his waning abilities and how these inadequacies place Ellie’s safety in jeopardy.
Ellie Begins to Embrace Life in Jackson
Maria Shares the Story of Joel’s Daughter, Sarah
As Joel engages in deep conversation with Tommy, Ellie explores the vibrant community of Jackson. For the first time, she witnesses a semblance of a normal society, one starkly different from her previous experiences in Boston and Kansas City. The innocence of childhood—a stark contrast to her world—is vividly brought to life through t-shirts, movie posters, and carefree memorabilia that punctuate the rooms of Jackson.
During her visit with Maria, Ellie gains insights into Joel’s past, uncovering the tragic loss of his daughter Sarah. This revelation deeply resonates, confirming Ellie’s suspicions about Joel’s protective demeanor. However, Maria’s tone shifts as she cautions Ellie about Joel’s darker nature, suggesting that he may still harbor the same dangerous tendencies that led Tommy down a path of violence. Maria’s warning serves as a pivotal moment, emphasizing the potential for betrayal even from those they trust the most.
Joel Faces the Decision to Leave Ellie
Ellie Insists She Only Feels Secure with Joel
Torn by the possibility of losing someone he increasingly views as family, Joel contemplates the idea of forsaking Ellie for her own safety. In an attempt to distance himself, he coldly asserts his lack of paternal connection to her. However, Ellie sees through his facade; she boldly reminds him that she only feels safe with him. As Joel prepares to embark alone, the bond they share quickly draws Ellie back, culminating in a silent understanding that deepens their connection.
Ellie and Joel Discover the Abandoned University of Eastern Colorado
Joel is Wounded, and Ellie’s Resolve is Tested
Their journey leads them to the University of Eastern Colorado, where they fully embrace their roles as a team. They share both laughter and vulnerability, allowing their barriers to fall away. Joel imparts knowledge about football and weapons while Ellie freely shares her curiosity. However, their arrival at the university reveals an unexpected reality—an eerie emptiness, where even the lab’s resident primates seem to be the only indicators of life.
Amidst their exploration, they encounter a gang of thieves. While Joel swiftly confronts the assailants, he suffers a grievous knife wound that leaves him teetering on the brink of consciousness. In a heartfelt moment, Ellie vows to tend to Joel, her determination underscored by their shared experiences throughout the series, setting the stage for the challenges and trials that lay ahead in The Last of Us episode 6, “Kin.”