Revamped Review: "The Last of Us" - Ready to Show Its True Colors
"Recap and Assessment of 'The Last of Us' Season 2, Episode 4: The So-Called Utopia of Color Shattered"
Whether you're a fan of the apocalyptic epic The Last of Us or a curious newcomer, Season 2 of the hit HBO series has been a thrilling, emotionally charged ride so far—albeit with a few hiccups. However, it seems the show has found its rhythm in the fourth episode. Spoiler Warning!
I've heard quite a few grumbles about the casting in this show, and I must admit, like many others, I initially had reservations about Bella Ramsey portraying an older, tougher Ellie. Don't get me wrong, I still attribute the initial reservations more to questionable writing choices than any actor-specific shortcomings. After all, Season 2's premiere portrayed a version of Ellie that was oddly hostile, reckless, and obnoxious, making it difficult to recognize her as the older version of the character we've come to love from the game.
But fear not, fellow viewers, the writers seemed to have a plan all along: They crafted Ellie’s behavior thoughtfully to emphasize her growth following Joel's untimely demise. While I still contend the contrast could have been toned down, at least we're now moving closer to the game's version of Ellie.
One scene in particular won me over in this episode. Ellie tunes an old guitar in a music shop she visits with Dina, and begins playing Take On Me by a-ha. Her performance is powerful, stirring, and a testament to Ramsey's hidden talents. Dina's reaction—initially enjoying the tune before shedding tears— beautifully captures the emotional core of the scene. It's a poignant reminder that amidst all the chaos and darkness, moments of beauty and connection can still be found in this post-apocalyptic world.
Of course, there's no shortage of horror in this season, and one thing I've appreciated compared to the first is the increased number of infected our heroes must battle. The scene in the Seattle subway, where Ellie and Dina must navigate hordes of both Wolves and the infected, is intense and exhilarating. Ellie puts her life on the line to protect Dina, sacrificing her arm in the process. Though bitten, Ellie's fate hangs in the balance—to be revealed in upcoming episodes.
As the story unfolds, Ellie and Dina's relationship deepens. With Ellie's immunity to the infection now revealed, the issue of pregnancy takes center stage. Dina learns she's pregnant with Jesse's baby, finally confirming suspicions aroused by her frequent vomiting and the discovery of a pregnancy test. While Ellie expresses concerns about Dina's safety, the latter remains steadfast, choosing to join Ellie in their journey to find Abby. The tension eventually gives way to a heated, tender moment between the two, offering a brief respite from the series' otherwise bleak outlook.
Unfortunately, though intense factional conflicts lend complexity to the narrative, they're not without their pitfalls. The Wolves, once rebels fighting against FEDRA, have become eerily reminiscent of the very forces they once opposed. On the other hand, the Scars—who resemble a Walking Dead group with their medieval attire and primitive weaponry—feel cartoonish and out-of-place in a series that prides itself on realism.
Speaking of Abby, the struggle to find her continues. With time running short, it seems increasingly likely that we may not see her again until the finale, raising questions about the direction of Season 3.
Overall, this was a strong episode that deepened the chemistry and dynamic between Ellie and Dina, while offering plenty of tense action, emotional moments, and even a dash of much-needed humor. If the series continues on this path, it's shaping up to be a thrilling conclusion to a captivating story.
As always, I'd love to hear your thoughts on this week’s episode. Share them on Twitter, Instagram, Bluesky, or Facebook. Don't forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel, follow me on this blog, and sign up for my newsletter for more reviews and commentary on entertainment and culture.
Sources:1. IGN2. Den of Geek3. GameSpot
- Bella Ramsey delivered a stirring performance of Take On Me in the fourth episode of 'The Last of Us' Season 2, showcasing her hidden talents and emphasizing Ellie's growth.
- The relationship between Ellie and Dina is deepening, with Dina's pregnancy adding a new layer to their journey, as they search for Abby in Season 2.
- Ramsey's portrayal of Ellie initially sparked discussions among fans, but her performance in Season 2 episode 4 has canny critics rethinking their initial reservations.
- The scene in the Seattle subway showcases the increased number of infected that the characters must face, as Ellie and Dina battle hordes of both Wolves and the infected, displaying the series' signature blend of action, emotion, and horror.
