Warning: This article contains SPOILERS for The Last of Us Season 2, Episode 1!
The long-anticipated premiere of The Last of Us Season 2, Episode 1 has finally arrived, bringing with it a fresh onslaught of intrigue and tension. This episode serves as an adaptation of the video game sequel, The Last of Us Part II, which continues the compelling narrative of the HBO series that originally captivated audiences with its first installment. As the story unfolds, fans are especially curious about how HBO will navigate the intricate and often divisive themes present in the source material.
Right from the outset, the episode revisits the profound implications of Joel’s deception toward Ellie, incorporating a critical five-year leap into the future. In this new timeline, Joel and Ellie have settled in Jackson, Wyoming, fully integrating themselves into the vibrant community. Joel assumes the role of head of construction, while Ellie is enthusiastic about joining scouting missions. A predominant focus of the episode revolves around the consequences of Joel’s unexplained fallout with Ellie, all while an ominous threat looms with Abby’s looming presence.
Motivations of Abby and the Washington Liberation Front
The Aftermath of Joel’s Actions in Season 1 Finale
The episode opens in Salt Lake City, introducing viewers to a new ensemble of characters. Among them is Kaitlyn Dever’s Abby, who, alongside her fellow Fireflies, is seen grappling with the fallout from their losses incurred at the hands of Joel in the climactic finale of Season 1. One pivotal death is that of Abby’s father, a critical figure in the search for a cure to the cordyceps virus, further intensifying Abby’s desire for vengeance. As Joel and Ellie swiftly departed Salt Lake City post-confrontation, Abby is now consumed by her quest for retribution.
Amidst the Firefly group, Abby emerges as the most determined to seek revenge. While some of her companions counsel moving forward, Abby insists on tracking down Joel to deliver a slow and painful demise. This burning desire marks the starting point of Abby’s journey with her compatriots, who are later recognized in The Last of Us Part II as members of the Washington Liberation Front.
Examining Joel & Ellie’s Deteriorating Relationship
Key Events During the Five-Year Time Gap
This season premiere reveals a significant five-year gap, during which the dynamics between Joel and Ellie have drastically shifted. Once inseparable, their relationship has deteriorated to the point where they barely communicate, leaving Joel in a state of emotional turmoil. Seeking help, Joel attends therapy, during which he is confronted with the implications of a certain undisclosed secret—potentially related to the pivotal lie he told Ellie at the end of Season 1.
The crux of this lie revolves around Joel’s choice to save Ellie from the Fireflies, who intended to sacrifice her to develop a cure. By fabricating a story that the cure was abortive, Joel hides the grim reality beneath his actions. Given Ellie’s growing suspicions throughout Season 1, it is plausible that she discovered the truth during the intervening years, catalyzing their discord.
Eugene’s Role & the Justification Behind Joel’s Action
Is This the Same Eugene from the Game?
An intriguing aspect of the episode revolves around Joel’s therapy sessions, featuring Catherine O’Hara as his therapist—an original creation for the show. In a poignant moment, she reveals that Joel killed her husband, Eugene. This reference aligns with Eugene Linden from the game, a Jackson patrolman with a backstory involving a marijuana farm. However, the adaptation takes liberties, as Eugene’s death in the game’s narrative was due to a stroke, whereas the series depicts him being shot by Joel, leaving the reasons shrouded in mystery, but possibly linked to an infection.
The Evolution of Infected Over the Five-Year Span
The Emergence of Highly Evolved Infected
In tandem with the character developments, the infected have also undergone significant changes during the five-year gap. An early scene sees Ellie and Dina overwhelmed in a supermarket, facing off against a Stalker displaying enhanced intelligence. This revelation stirs alarms among the Jackson council, as the potential evolution of the infected poses a dire threat to their community, suggesting that the deceased may become even more formidable adversaries.
Understanding Ellie & Dina’s Relationship Dynamics
Exploring the Romantic Connection
The evolving bond between Ellie and Dina is another focal point introduced in Season 2. Their burgeoning romance is hinted at during a shared dance at a New Year’s celebration. Despite Ellie being aware of Dina’s tumultuous relationship with Jesse, their mutual affection is palpable. This adaptation mirrors elements of their relationship from The Last of Us Part II, leaving fans eager to see how the HBO adaptation portrays their complex romantic journey.
Noteworthy Differences Between Episode 1 and the Game
Incorporating New Scenes While Maintaining Fidelity
The inaugural episode of Season 2 makes some deviations from the storyline of The Last of Us Part II. While the first season faithfully adapted its predecessor, fan anticipation runs high regarding the adaptations made in the sequel. Episode 1 primarily sets the stage for the unfolding narrative by focusing on intimate character moments between Joel and Ellie, including unique scenarios such as Joel’s therapy sessions.
Despite these additions, pivotal plot points such as Abby’s quest for Joel, the tense supermarket scene, and Ellie and Dina’s confrontation with a homophobic man at the dance remain intact, echoing the sentiments expressed in the game. Though the order and pacing experience slight shifts, Episode 1 signals that The Last of Us Season 2 will continue to be deeply rooted in its source material.