TV Show Review: The Last of Us (HBO) Season 2 Episode 3

HBO’s The Last of Us addresses the fallout from last week’s harrowing events in its latest episode, laying the groundwork for a revenge-driven journey. While we’ve had mixed feelings about the series up to this point, we genuinely admire this season’s more measured pace, prominently displayed in the latest episode titled ‘The Path’.

This review contains plot spoilers.

The episode begins by addressing the consequences of the assault on Jackson, alongside the significant loss of Joel. As the charred infected continue to smolder by the perimeter, we witness an emotional moment between Tommy and his late brother. It’s a poignant scene that not only emphasizes their sibling bond but also references the first episode of season one, reminding us of the story’s progression.

The primary distinction between the show and the game at this juncture is the pacing. In the game, we don’t really get much of a pause before Ellie gears up for vengeance. In contrast, showrunner and writer Craig Mazin has slowed things down to explore life in Jackson following immense grief – and how that shapes the characters who navigate that sorrow.

Does it succeed fully? Not entirely. Ellie’s haunted expression hits differently in the game, while here we also see her more playful side at times. The instinctive reactions in the game carry raw emotion, whereas here, we encounter community discussions and town meetings. There are valid reasons for this narrative breathing space, and while the character dynamics we’ve come to expect from this series remain intact, it somewhat loses the disoriented and unrefined feeling that follows a significant loss like the one we’ve just experienced.

The series also takes the time to introduce additional narrative elements, such as the Seraphites. We’re not going to lie; it stung a bit to see this included without sufficient lead-up. As mentioned last week, the way the series is altering aspects might spoil pivotal moments later in the plot. Anyone who played The Last of Us Part II will have a vivid memory of their first encounter with the Seraphites.

Candidly, we don’t think the impact would have been as strong in the televised format, particularly as we were introduced to the Seraphites progressively in the game, through the environment and optional dialogue. That doesn’t mean the show can’t execute it effectively, but some of the intrigue has definitely diminished.

However, as we noticed in the season’s premiere, the connection between Ellie and Dina is really where everything begins to align. We’ve had some reservations about Bella Ramsey’s acting, particularly regarding last week’s emotional scenes, but in light of recent events, Ramsey is indeed making Ellie her own. A scene with Joel’s jacket is especially poignant.

Both Ramsey and Merced showcase remarkable chemistry, and with their relationship being central to the narrative of season two, that’s a solid base to build on. As we leave the safety of Jackson, we’re eager to witness how their relationship evolves, even knowing where it ultimately leads.

We must commend how Seattle is portrayed here. With Ellie and Dina approaching cautiously, the city looms like a fearsome beast. It appears innocuous from afar, yet dangers lurk within its streets and structures. This buildup alone made us eager for the next episode for the first time this season.

With only four episodes remaining this season, there’s still a wealth of content to come — even if we anticipate the conclusion will align with our expectations. From what we’ve observed so far, HBO seems willing to take its time, and that’s commendable. We hope it refrains from accelerating the pace and glossing over the key moments. The groundwork has been, for the most part, effectively laid, so it’s now time for the unfolding of the subsequent events. That’s where the merit of this adaptation will be tested.

What are your opinions on the third episode of The Last of Us TV series? Do you believe the show is effectively setting up the remaining storyline? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.