The excitement surrounding the second season of The Last of Us has reached a fever pitch, especially as it approaches a pivotal moment from the acclaimed game. This key episode not only sets the tone for the rest of the season but also engages viewers with emotional stakes that fans can immediately recognize. Ahead of the episode’s airing, co-creators Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, along with actors Pedro Pascal (Joel), Bella Ramsey (Ellie), and Kaitlyn Dever (Abby), shared their insights and what fans can look forward to in upcoming seasons.
The episode “Through the Valley” delivers a heart-wrenching conclusion, mirroring a shocking moment from the game: Abby brutally attacking Joel while Ellie is forced to watch. This violent encounter has sparked discussions among fans since its reveal in the leaked game in 2020. Both Mazin and Druckmann contemplated various approaches to timing this pivotal moment. They ultimately decided it was best to incorporate it early in the season, allowing audiences to grapple with its emotional weight.
Mazin remarked, “If people know it’s coming, they’ll feel tormented, and those who don’t will find out.” The objective was to integrate this violent act naturally into the story, rather than as a mere plot twist aimed at shocking the audience.
This scene marked a significant moment for both Pascal and Dever, marking her first filming as Abby. Entertainment Weekly reported that Dever’s emotional state following her mother’s passing influenced her performance. Typically, actors prepare extensively for crucial scenes, but Dever found that she could approach this character from a place of authenticity. “I had a different approach, and I think that it really served the character in a lot of ways,” she explained.
While the timing of Joel’s death remained the same, the narrative leading up to it has been revised. Abby’s confrontation with Joel now includes a poignant monologue revealing that he killed her father during a hospital raid last season—a detail specifically created for the show. Mazin emphasized this addition was crucial for emphasizing Abby’s motivations: “We kill for the people we love, and what Joel did is what she’s doing now.”
In the game, Joel’s brother Tommy witnesses his death alongside Ellie. The show diverges from this tradition, keeping Tommy in Jackson to safeguard the settlement, while delivering deeper character interactions. Joel’s last moments are shared instead with Ellie’s girlfriend, Dina (Isabela Merced), allowing viewers to see how her love for Joel pushes her to take greater action in Ellie’s life post-tragedy. Druckmann noted that this shift gives a more grounded reason for Dina’s involvement in Ellie’s vengeance arc.
Ramsey expressed that the shared trauma of losing Joel deeply bonds the two women, adding layers to their relationship. “There’s a lot of guilt and regret on Ellie’s part,” she said, referencing their unique connection solidified by their mutual loss.
The aftermath of Joel’s death has sparked intense discussions among audiences, paralleling Ellie’s emotional devastation. As reactions unfold, Dever confesses uncertainty about how viewers will respond to Abby’s choices but hopes her portrayal resonates with fans. “I’m very, very proud of it,” she shared.
Pascal, who’s familiar with impactful character deaths, expressed disbelief regarding his fate in the series. Despite his departure, he’s enthusiastic about Ramsey taking the lead moving forward. He acknowledged the unique parent-like bond shared between Joel and Ellie, admiring how seamlessly she has transitioned into a leadership role.
For a deeper dive into this episode and additional insights about Tommy’s role in the series, check out Entertainment Weekly’s full coverage here.
What is the significance of Joel’s death in The Last of Us?
Joel’s death is pivotal as it sets off a chain of events that propels Ellie into a journey of vengeance, illustrating themes of loss and the cycle of violence.
How did the actors prepare for their roles in this key episode?
The actors drew on personal emotions and life experiences, particularly Dever’s challenges, which informed their emotional portrayals in crucial scenes.
What changes were made to the character dynamics in the show?
The show reconfigures relationships, notably by pairing Joel with Dina during his final moments, enhancing the emotional stakes and connections within the narrative.
How does the show address the themes of vengeance and guilt?
These themes are interwoven through character motivations and backstories, particularly through the consequences of Joel’s choices and their impact on Ellie and Abby.
What can we expect in future seasons of The Last of Us?
Future seasons promise to explore deeper character arcs and emotional complexities, ensuring that the narrative remains engaging for both fans of the game and new viewers.
As the series continues to captivate audiences, dive deeper into the world of The Last of Us and explore related content at Moyens I/O.