Halfway through its sophomore season, “The Last of Us” receives high ratings and a renewal for a third season
By ELIZABETH BUNT — arts@theaggie.org
“The Last of Us” an adaptation of a hit video game, burst onto the scene in 2023. Set in a post-apocalyptic world decimated by a virus that effectively turns its victims into zombies, it follows the relationship and journey of Joel and Ellie, an unlikely duo who are searching for safety in this new world. It became one of the highest rated drama series in HBO history in its first season, earning 24 Primetime Emmy Award nominations. Stars Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey returned for season two along with a host of new characters.
The first season of “The Last of Us” ends with Joel (Pedro Pascal) and Ellie (Bella Ramsey)’s arrival in Jackson, Wyoming, a safe town, after traversing the country. Unbeknownst to Ellie, Joel is hiding the fact that he murdered a group of liberation fighters to keep them from performing a fatal surgery on her. This provides the foundation for the next season, which is set five years later.
Season two picks up with Joel and Ellie settled in Jackson. The town has grown exponentially since its first appearance. Joel has become a leader in the community and Ellie, now in her late teens, is a member of the town’s infected patrol squad. Their relationship is struggling through a period of teenage angst.
At the same time, they are unknowingly being hunted by a member of the Washington Liberation Front (WLF), played by Kaitlyn Dever, who is seeking retribution for Joel’s actions at the hospital. The outcome of their eventual confrontation propels Ellie and her partner Dina (Isabela Merced) on a quest for vengeance, leading them into the heart of Seattle’s dangerous and morally ambiguous landscape.
Season two greatly expands the show’s universe by introducing new characters and exploring the dynamics of the growing Jackson community. One notable new addition to the series is the psychiatrist, Gail, who is played by Catherine O’Hara. Her performance adds another layer of emotional depth to the show as her sessions with Joel peel back his layers.
On some fronts, season two has met with positive reviews. Critics and fans alike continue to praise the show’s ability to blend heart-wrenching emotion with gritty realism. Reviewers have commented on the season’s bold narrative choices, while still remaining true to the video game’s original storyline. The performances of the cast, including Ramsey’s performance in episode three, have also garnered immense praise. However, certain factors like casting decisions, particularly Dever’s portrayal of Abby, have been a source of divide for the fanbase of “The Last of Us.”
Currently, the second season holds a 95% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and an 81% score on Metacritic. With four episodes still to be released, “The Last of Us” is already being hailed as one of the strongest sophomore seasons in TV history.
For anyone who has been on the fence about watching season two, take this as your sign to catch up. It will not disappoint and with season three already confirmed, “The Last of Us” is going to be around for a long time yet.
Written by: Elizabeth Bunt — arts@theaggie.org
