Joel's Death, Ellie's Journey Drive Last of Us S2

In The Last of Us Season 2, Episode 2, Joel Miller is killed in a brutal and controversial scene that closely mirrors the original video game, sparking divided reactions among fans. Episode 3 follows Ellie's journey through grief and her resolve for revenge, highlighted by her emotional gesture of leaving coffee beans at Joel's grave and the use of flashbacks. The show visually marks Joel's absence, including changes to the opening credits that underscore Ellie's transition to the main protagonist. Bella Ramsey's portrayal of Ellie's grief has been widely acclaimed for its authenticity. The series continues to deliver intense action sequences, with the infected attack on Jackson drawing comparisons to Game of Thrones' 'Hardhome.' As Ellie and Dina set out for Seattle, the narrative promises an even darker and more complex trajectory, maintaining critical acclaim for its adaptation and bold storytelling.