'The Last of Us' Returns: Season 2, Episode 1 - What to Expect?

The Last of Us 

Season Two, Episode One 

‘Future Days’

[This is a review from someone who attempted to play ‘The Last of Us’ many years ago and quite literally couldn’t play it from fear. So, this review is from the view of someone who has no idea how this story is going to develop or what is in store for these characters]

Five years later, moving on from the events in Salt Lake City. Ellie, now 19 years old and keeping her distance from Joel, we soon realise something between them has changed since season one. 

Ellie, a tough fighter and shooter makes a discovery while on patrol with her best friend Dina. The pair, whilst arrogantly searching a deserted supermarket come across an evolved clicker, one who doesn’t act in aggression but instead stalks and hunts Ellie down. 

This episode sets up the groundwork for what is yet to come, sharing the new relationship between Joel and Ellie whilst introducing us to Dina and other characters within Jackson Hole. Joel is working tirelessly to mend his relationship with Ellie but is reluctant to explain what has happened between the pair, even in therapy. Although this episode is the first, it still has plenty of action and thrill thrown in. This isn’t a quite opening, episode one still gives us all the scares and terrifying moments we expect from this series! 

The Last of Us is visually stunning, this show never fails to surprise me with how beautifully shot it is and how effortlessly peaceful the landscapes look, enclosed in snow and mountains. The Last of Us is a thrilling series that combines the idea of humanity and survival, at every moment there is potential threat and yet the opportunity for love and friendship. The Last of Us has easily become one of my favourites due to its cinematography, special effects, incomparable cast and of course, the enticing plot. 

Joel is such a hard character, a tough exterior that could crumble at any minute. Pedro Pascal is magnetic, although he is a man of few words the character is extremely warm and inviting. Joel has become a core member of the community and is forced to make tough decisions around Jackson Hole but does he have the strength for it? 

Bella Ramsey is feisty this season, Ellie has a lot on her plate. From wanting to be taken seriously, learning how to fight, harnessing her skills as a shooter whilst understanding her love and affection for Dina. Ellie is confused in this episode, she shows off for Dina, she acts out and ultimately she is an annoying teenager. Time will tell but I have a feeling Ellie is going to get herself and those she loves in danger soon enough. 

We also meet Abby, she acts as an enigmatic book end for this episode. We meet her at the beginning and the end, she is a mysterious threat - what is she capable of? I am excited to learn more about her and yet, I am terrified for her to come face to face with Joel.

By the end of the episode we are left with a beautifully ambiguous revelation, a huge potential threat that could infect their safe haven and bring chaos inside the walls. I’m not sure I am ready for what is to come… 

Probe Points

★★★★☆