The Last of Us Season 2 continues its emotionally charged journey in Episode 3, as Ellie (Bella Ramsey) and the rest of Jackson struggle with the fallout of Joel’s (Pedro Pascal) shocking death. With a heavy heart, Ellie embarks on a path to seek “justice” for Joel, while the episode introduces new challenges, including the mysterious Seraphites and a looming journey to Seattle.
Ellie Grieves Joel’s Loss and Struggles for Justice
After the devastating events of Episode 2, the Jackson community is left to rebuild, with Ellie at the center of the pain. The episode opens with a deeply emotional moment as Tommy (Gabriel Luna) says his final goodbyes to his brother, Joel, through tearful words: “Give Sarah my love.” The weight of Joel’s death is felt by everyone, and the timeline jumps forward three months, with the town of Jackson trying to regain stability.
Ellie, recovering from her wounds, talks with Dr. Gail (Catherine O’Hara), who shares Joel’s final words—”I saved her.” This revelation confuses Ellie, who doesn’t fully understand what Joel meant, but she recognizes the complexity of their relationship.
Ellie’s Emotional Journey: Revisiting Joel’s Home
Later in the episode, Ellie returns to Joel’s home, a place that holds many painful memories. As she explores, she finds Joel’s broken watch and gun, but it’s the sight of his clothes in the closet that really overwhelms her. Dina (Isabela Merced), who comes with cookies and news about their attackers, urges Ellie to focus on finding out more about the group that killed Joel. Dina identifies the Washington Liberation Front (WLF) from Seattle based on the WLF patches they wore.
Ellie, consumed by anger and seeking revenge, demands justice for Joel’s death. However, Tommy, concerned for her safety, suggests that the community should hold a council meeting to discuss their next steps rather than rushing into action.
Justice or Revenge? Ellie’s Battle for Closure
At the council meeting, Ellie makes an emotional plea: “It’s not about revenge… I want justice.” But the community is divided. Some, like Seth (Robert John Burke), argue that the WLF will return if they don’t take action. However, after much deliberation, the council votes not to pursue revenge and instead focuses on rebuilding Jackson. Ellie’s frustration is palpable, and Tommy’s conversation with Dr. Gail reveals his concern for Ellie’s anger and whether she can move forward from the loss of Joel.
Despite the council’s decision, Ellie isn’t ready to let go of her mission. With Dina’s support, she begins to gather supplies and make plans for a journey to Seattle, where the WLF, including Abby (Kaitlyn Dever), await.
Heading to Seattle and the Mysterious Seraphites
Ellie and Dina’s journey to Seattle begins in the dead of night, aided by Seth, who helps them escape Jackson on horseback. Before they leave, Ellie visits Joel’s grave, marking the emotional point of no return as she breathes deeply and places her hand on the tombstone that reads “Beloved brother and father.”
As the pair nears Seattle, they encounter a horrifying sight: a group of dead bodies, including children, belonging to the Seraphites—also known as the “Scars.” This religious cult, led by the Prophet, lives off the land without technology, and their presence in the city hints at the danger and complexity of the world Ellie and Dina are about to enter.
The episode concludes with a tense moment, as Manny (Danny Ramirez) communicates with another WLF soldier while observing Seattle from the Space Needle. The scene foreshadows an intense and dangerous journey ahead for Ellie and Dina.
What’s Next for Ellie in The Last of Us Season 2?
As The Last of Us Season 2 continues to unfold, Ellie’s pursuit of justice and vengeance will lead her deeper into Seattle’s dangerous landscape. The introduction of the Seraphites, alongside Ellie’s complex emotions toward Joel’s death, sets the stage for more explosive conflicts and revelations. Fans can expect more intense drama, character development, and morally complex choices as the season progresses.
New episodes of The Last of Us Season 2 are available weekly on HBO and streaming on Max.
