Episode 3 of The Last of Us Season 2 Explores Vengeance and Grief

JACKSON, Wyoming — The third episode of Season 2 of The Last of Us opens with the aftermath of Joel’s death and the devastation in Jackson, raising the question of whether revenge or forgiveness is the path forward.

Ellie, portrayed by Bella Ramsey, is deeply affected by Joel’s absence and craves justice against those responsible for his pain. The episode showcases her emotional journey as the community grapples with loss. Tommy, Joel’s brother, tends to Joel’s body and expresses his sorrow, asking him to send his love to his daughter Sarah.

Three months after the brutal events, Jackson is slowly rebuilding. Ellie wakes in the hospital, struggling to cope with her grief and the chaos surrounding her. During a therapy session with Gail, she expresses her longing for Joel and her regrets about their last conversation.

The episode reveals Ellie’s memories of better times with Joel, contrasting the current devastation. She reluctantly confronts her feelings of anger and desire for vengeance when she speaks with Dina, who has information about Joel’s killers. They discuss the Washington Liberation Front (WLF), a group Ellie believes is responsible for Joel’s death.

Dina provides Ellie with crucial details about the group’s members and suggests a more patient approach to confronting them. However, Ellie insists on taking immediate action, aligning with her impulsive desire for revenge. Tommy, meanwhile, advises caution, wanting to avoid further loss in the community.

As discussions unfold about seeking justice for Joel, the townspeople reflect on the moral implications of their actions. Ellie ultimately stands before the council, advocating for retaliation against those who harmed her. However, the outcome is disappointing for her supporters as the proposal is rejected in a vote of 8-3.

Concerned for Ellie’s safety, Tommy warns that rushing into vengeance could lead her down a dark path similar to Joel’s past. Meanwhile, a new threat emerges as a masked group with ties to the WLF appears, suggesting a larger conflict ahead.

As the episode concludes, Ellie and Dina commit to finding Joel’s killers, embarking on a journey filled with uncertainty and danger. The emotional undercurrent of their mission adds depth to the narrative, illustrating their growing bond amidst pain and revenge.