Movies

The Last of Us Season 2: How Episode 6 Mastered the Flashback Trope

BBG News

As a passionate film enthusiast, I must admit that keeping a TV series thriving following the demise of a lead character can be quite a challenge. Many times, these attempts end up fizzling out, but there are instances when shows miraculously pull through. A robust collection of talented actors who can carry on the narrative is often a sign of success. This has been particularly true for “The Last of Us,” which had to transform itself in its second season following the departure of Joel (Pedro Pascal).

It was no surprise for those who had played the video games that this moment would arrive, but it didn’t make Joel’s departure any less difficult. Even though Joel’s tale had concluded, viewers yearned for more insights into the tender connection between Joel and Ellie. In Season 2, Episode 6 of The Last of Us, titled “The Price,” these desires were fulfilled. Rather than resorting to a cliche fan service, flashbacks of Joel were skillfully woven into the narrative, providing crucial information about what led to the deterioration of their bond. This is how The Last of Us masterfully handled the overused TV trope of “a dead character returns through flashbacks.

How Does Joel Return in ‘The Last of Us’?

In a notable shift from the intense action of “Feel Her Love” (May 11 episode), the latest installment, titled “The Price,” takes a more introspective approach. Instead of high-octane sequences, this episode delves into the poignant exploration of Joel and Ellie’s strained father-daughter bond, which has been severely tested following Joel’s demise. The initial scenes present a tranquil picture of Joel and Ellie living harmoniously in Jackson, two months after the previous season concluded.

We witness the delightful surprises he prepared for her birthdays, like a specially made guitar on her 15th and a trip to an antiquated dinosaur museum on her 16th. He also performed a heartfelt rendition of the retro song “Future Days” on the guitar. This proud almost-father also shed tears as Ellie enjoyed herself immensely at the museum. The Joel and Ellie in this scenario are similar to the ones we grew fond of during the latter part of Season 1.

Around Ellie’s 17th birthday, and leading into the start of the second season, things began to unravel. Ellie started dabbling with drugs, got a tattoo to hide her bite wound, and rekindled an old flame with Kat. Joel saw these incidents as typical teenage rebellion phases. Despite their disagreements, nothing too drastic had occurred yet. However, these instances subtly hinted at the brewing conflict between Joel and Ellie that we later witness in the second season. These moments help explain why they were estranged at its start, providing a deeper understanding of their relationship dynamics.

On her 19th birthday during a patrol, Joel and Ellie encounter a bitten Eugene. For those who followed Joel’s therapy sessions with Gail, Eugene’s wife, they know how this tragic event unfolds. Since Eugene hadn’t transformed yet, he pleaded with Joel to let him say goodbye to Gail. Joel initially seems willing, but takes Eugene away when Ellie leaves to gather the horses. In town, Joel fabricates a story that Eugene committed suicide to protect Gail, but Ellie reveals the truth. Additionally, she notices that Joel displays a similar expression when discussing the fate of the Salt Lake City Fireflies, indicating his guilt.

Filling in Gaps From ‘The Last of Us’ Season 2 Premiere

In this alternative portrayal, events from the opening episode where Seth antagonizes Ellie and Dina on New Year’s Eve are revisited. However, in contrast to the original presentation, we now witness Joel’s perspective, offering insight into the precise instant when he switches into protective father mode, shielding Ellie. What was initially suggested as Ellie going to bed without speaking to Joel after their argument at the party is shown here to be different.

She confronts him on the porch about the incident in Salt Lake, and Joel admits tearfully that he deceived Ellie about the existence of other immune individuals to spare her from death. Despite understanding that she would perish, Ellie felt it was for the greater good if a cure were found. The scene is skillfully portrayed, offering insight into both characters’ viewpoints equally. Clearly, Joel did not want to lose his “daughter.” And Ellie was prepared to sacrifice her life if it meant bringing an end to the devastation wreaked on civilization for over two decades. Both are deeply affected by the situation, for very different reasons. It’s genuine, poignant, and heart-rending.

As a movie enthusiast, let me put it this way: That moment didn’t leave me reeling completely. Despite Ellie expressing that she can’t forgive Joel for Salt Lake, she confesses she still wishes to make amends. The bond she shares with her foster father, deep as the ocean, persists, even if he betrayed her at the heart of who she is. It’s a faint glimmer that these characters might find reconciliation someday. At best, it’s more promising than ending with what Ellie told Joel at the party. But we all recall what unfolded the very next morning.

A Fan Service Moment That Serves a Greater Purpose

In a less demanding scenario, Joel might have been subtly incorporated without much relevance. Perhaps he’d make an appearance in Ellie’s dreams, providing guidance. Reflecting on past events could also be an option for her. Or consider the possibility that Joel isn’t actually deceased at all – a prospect that might seem implausible only in a world where mushrooms transform humans into towering “bloater” creatures, yet still within reach in a more fantastical TV series. In many other shows, such instances might be used merely to cater to the audience’s fondness for the character, serving as fan service with little plot significance.

Joel’s return significantly enriches the narrative, given the audience is already familiar with the tension created at the start of the second season. The sight of Joel witnessing Ellie pulling away is heart-wrenching and he acknowledges that his deceit has cost him her. In their final moments together, there’s a hint of hope in his eyes as Ellie expresses a willingness to forgive him. There remains a glimmer of possibility for him to keep her close.

In this portrayal, Joel and Ellie’s past stories are heartwarming yet heart-rending, essential to grasp their character development. We initially feel a sense of nostalgia, reflecting on their past bond. However, our hearts shatter once more as the connection weakens.

Understanding how they arrived at this point of alienation is pivotal in following their growth trajectory. It’s comforting to learn that Ellie’s final words to Joel held a glimmer of hope. If he were still alive, reconciliation might have been possible. Here’s wishing Ellie finds some measure of justice for Joel in the Season 2 finale.

Stream “The Last of Us” on Max.

Read More

2025-05-22 02:02

Previous post Error during authentication for model o3-mini: Rate limited by Puter.js API. Try again after 60 seconds.
Next post One Chicago Season Finales: Shocking Twists and Troubled Characters Await!