[This article includes spoilers from the season two premiere of The Last of Us, titled “Future Days.” ]
Unveiling a New Threat in The Last of Us Season Two
As The Last of Us transitioned from its gripping first season to the much-anticipated second season, it has brought a new formidable antagonist into the fold. While previous seasons showcased an array of villains, from cannibalistic preachers to the ominous cordyceps fungus, the introduction of Abby marks a pivotal moment in the narrative.
Introducing Abby: A Complex New Character
The premiere episode, “Future Days,” opens with a fresh ensemble of characters, prominently featuring Abby, portrayed by Kaitlyn Dever. Abby’s connection to the main characters, Joel (Pedro Pascal) and Ellie (Bella Ramsey), is deeply personal. She is among the few remaining members of the Firefly resistance group that Joel decimated in a desperate attempt to save Ellie, whose potential sacrifice could have delivered a cure for the devastating cordyceps infection ravaging humanity. This backstory fuels Abby’s motivations, setting the stage for intense conflict.
Revenge and its Consequences
In a chilling moment, Abby declares, “Slowly, when we kill him, we kill him slowly.” This stark declaration encapsulates her thirst for revenge against Joel, the man responsible for her father’s death. The narrative then fast-forwards five years, placing Joel and Ellie in the Jackson, Wyoming settlement. Their relationship, once deeply bonded, is now increasingly strained as Abby and her allies close in on Jackson.
Abby’s Legacy and Casting Insights
Abby is lauded as one of the most polarizing characters from The Last of Us game series. With Dever’s powerful performance, she embodies the weight of Abby’s troubled history, creating a character that leaves a lasting impact. Interestingly, Dever had been in talks years ago to portray Ellie during the early stages of adapting the franchise into a film. The role eventually returned to her, highlighting the serendipitous nature of casting decisions.
“I had met with Neil Druckmann years ago about playing Ellie, and while that opportunity didn’t pan out, it ultimately led me here,” Dever shared with The Hollywood Reporter. Her serendipitous journey demonstrates the ever-evolving landscape of character development in the franchise.
Building Confidence Through Casting
Dever noted that she did not have to audition for Abby; the role was offered to her, signifying the confidence showrunners have in their storytelling abilities and casting choices. New cast members like Isabela Merced, who plays Ellie’s love interest Dina, echo her sentiments about the casting process. “They are confident storytellers; they understand the characters’ essence, allowing for a creative space to explore.”
Exploring Grief and Loss
In the world of The Last of Us, feelings of safety are elusive, especially for Abby, whose motivations are darkly rooted in grief and desire for vengeance. Dever commented on Abby’s complex emotional state, stating, “The way into Abby is understanding how grief feels and how it affects you, especially in the immediate aftermath.” This depth of character brings a unique perspective to the viewer’s experience.
Abby’s harrowing journey is echoed in her impactful first scene, where her chilling line underscores her vulnerability masked by rage. “She’s a chilly ice queen!” Dever exclaimed, recognizing the raw emotion behind Abby’s facade. “She’s just looking for something to alleviate her pain, and at that moment, revenge seems to be the only solution.” This connection to loss mirrors Dever’s previous role as Loretta McCready in *Justified*, where the pursuit of vengeance similarly drove the character’s narrative.
Abby: A New Era in Horror
As Dever develops Abby into a horror icon, she embodies more than just a terrifying figure; she represents the anguish of loss and the complexity of vengeance. “When she enters a room, she carries an intense strength that is both formidable and intimidating, rooted in her suffering,” Dever said. This nuanced portrayal invites viewers to empathize with Abby, even as they grapple with her darker impulses.
Catch the Latest Episodes
The Last of Us continues to captivate audiences with its gripping narrative and character development, releasing new episodes every Sunday at 9 p.m. on HBO and Max.