After a subdued third episode, The Last of Us returned with a gripping fourth installment that delves into the escalating conflict between the WLF and the Scars in Seattle. Ellie and Dina face newfound challenges on their quest for Abby, challenges that will irrevocably alter their relationship and the unfolding narrative of The Last of Us. Let’s explore this pivotal episode.
Exploring the Flashbacks in Seattle
The episode opens in 2018, hitting us with “Seattle Quarantine Zone.” As fans of the show know, flashbacks often carry significant weight, and this one is no exception.
Aboard a military vehicle, a group of FEDRA soldiers banters, with one, portrayed by Josh Peck, sharing a dubious tale that lightens the mood. However, not everyone is amused. A new soldier in the group asks why citizens are referred to as “voters.” The Sergeant, played by Jeffrey Wright, chillingly explains that the term mocks citizens deprived of their rights. This unsettling notion hints at internal dissent among the soldiers.
The Shocking Betrayal
What unfolds next is jaw-dropping. As the transport encounters a blockade, Sergeant Isaac takes control, ordering the new guy to accompany him in a twisted lesson. After a dark exchange with his fellow soldier, Isaac throws gas grenades into the back of the vehicle, eliminating the crew. This brutal act marks Isaac’s transformation from a soldier to the formidable leader of the WLF, a shift that underpins the political themes of the series.
Ellie and Dina’s Journey Through Seattle
Fast forward eleven years, Ellie and Dina are scavenging in a desolate Seattle pharmacy. The on-screen text indicates “Seattle, Day One,” a marker of their precarious situation.
While navigating the Capitol Hill area, the duo encounters colorful “Pride” decorations, which serve as a humorous juxtaposition against their ignorance of the world that once was. Eager to keep a low profile, they decide to pass the time in a local music store.
The Emotional Power of Music
In a poignant moment, Ellie finds an intact guitar and plays the acoustic version of “Take On Me” by A-ha, a touching nod to the bond she shares with Joel. This scene not only reinforces their relationship but also showcases a rare moment of beauty amid their dire circumstances. It’s a touching reminder that love persists in the darkest times.
Unmasking the War: Justice or Brutality?
Simultaneously, we observe Isaac in a menacing setting, interrogating a captured Scar. The chaos of this conflict is evident as both sides engage in a brutal game of tit for tat, showcasing the futile violence of their war. Through their pain and vengeance, the narrative underscores a significant theme: neither faction emerges as the clear “good guys.”
Isaac’s role as a former FEDRA soldier who defected to the WLF adds depth to his character, highlighting the ideological conflict that drives this series.
High Stakes and Rivalry in the Shadows
The tension escalates as Ellie and Dina prepare to infiltrate the WLF building under the cover of darkness. Their intent to eliminate any opposition reflects their desperation for survival.
Close Calls and Life-Altering Choices
As they navigate the building, they discover WLF members gruesomely displayed by their enemies. Just when escape seems possible, they encounter WLF reinforcements, leading to a frantic escape into a subway station, triggering a new wave of clickers thanks to the flares ignited during the chaos.
In this chaotic escape, Ellie suffers a bite, a moment that flips the narrative. The tension heightens when Dina, uncovering that Ellie might be infected, points a gun at her, leading to an emotional confrontation where Ellie must reveal her immunity, breaking through Dina’s disbelief.
Revelations and New Beginnings
As the tension dissolves, revelations about Dina’s pregnancy add yet another layer of complexity. Their emotional exchange deepens significant character development, with the actors delivering stunning performances that resonate with viewers. Ellie’s heartfelt proclamation, “I’m going to be a dad!” introduces new hopes for their future.
What Lies Ahead on This Journey
As both characters head towards the explosions outside, we feel the weight of the choices they’ve made and their commitment to one another despite the turmoil. This episode not only showcases a turning point in Ellie and Dina’s relationship but paints a broader picture of the war’s grim realities in Seattle.
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