Warning: This article contains spoilers for the fifth episode of “The Last of Us,” titled “Endure and Survive,” which was released on February 10 on HBO Max and will air on February 12 on HBO.
They did it again. The death of characters, both good and bad, is a common occurrence in post-apocalyptic dramas.
However, the loss of a single life, especially an innocent one, can often have a greater impact than a mass tragedy, particularly when it’s personal.
Following the buzz generated by its third episode, “The Last of Us” pulled at viewers’ heartstrings once more in its fifth hour, “Endure and Survive.”
The episode features Joel (Pedro Pascal) and Ellie (Bella Ramsey) befriending two brothers, one of whom is deaf.
Ellie formed a bond with her younger brother, 8-year-old Sam (Keivonn Woodard), and the two were able to laugh and act like children for a brief moment of normalcy in a brutal and chaotic world.
The flashbacks made viewers grow to love these characters and root for them, only to have them taken away suddenly and tragically.
Killing a child in a TV drama is always risky, as it has a unique and unsettling effect on the audience.
This episode highlights the fearless storytelling by producers Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, emphasizing once again that the stakes in their world are as high as they come.
This move is reminiscent of a similar scene in the second season of “The Walking Dead,” where a missing little girl, Sophia, emerged as a zombie.
This moment was genuinely shocking and demonstrated that the show was not afraid to push boundaries and make viewers feel the pain of loss alongside the characters.
“The Last of Us” has been praised for its impressive range, strong guest star performances, and impactful subplots, all of which contribute to the relationship between Joel and Ellie, as evidenced by their silent exchange at the end of the episode.
The show’s emotional impact has been a major factor in its popularity and social media presence, and the term “zombie drama” is too simplistic to describe it.
The third episode resonated with viewers due to its romantic elements, while the latest episode dealt with unimaginable loss, making viewers feel it acutely.
“The Last of Us” continues to captivate audiences with its fearless storytelling and emotional depth.
The latest episode, “Endure and Survive,” once again proves the show’s willingness to push boundaries and explore the darker side of a post-apocalyptic world.
The loss of a young innocent life and its impact on the main characters make this episode one that will stay with viewers long after it has aired.
With its strong performances and impactful storytelling, “The Last of Us” is a must-watch for fans of the genre and anyone looking for a captivating and emotionally charged series.
