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The Last of Us has made waves again with its second season, particularly with the shocking events of Episode 2, which align closely with the original video game but incorporate notable changes that have sparked conversation among fans.
The premiere of Season 2 last week set the stage for a crucial character: Abby, a former Firefly whose motivation is rooted in revenge against Joel following the tragic events in Salt Lake City. Episode 2 culminates in a chilling confrontation where Abby finally exacts her revenge.
In a brutal sequence, after rescuing Abby from a swarm of infected, Joel finds himself in a fatal encounter. Abby shoots him in the leg and, in a harrowing moment, brutally bludgeons him to death with a golf club—all while Ellie looks on, helpless. This scene has already begun to evoke strong reactions, becoming a topic of extensive discussion akin to its original video game narrative.
Modifications in Joel’s Demise in The Last of Us Season 2
While the depiction of Joel’s death closely mirrors events in The Last of Us game, there are key differences. In the series, Abby finishes Joel off using a shard of the club rather than the neck stab he experiences in the game, and he is shown on patrol with Dina instead of Tommy.
In the game’s order of events, Joel is on patrol with Tommy when he stumbles upon Abby in distress and inadvertently leads a horde of infected back to the hideout where several of her allies, including Owen, are located.
Initially, interactions between the characters appear cordial, but tension quickly escalates once Abby realizes she is face-to-face with Joel. As she shoots him, Tommy is incapacitated, unable to intervene. The sequence of events unfolds in a manner consistent with the game, albeit with some alterations in dialogue and pacing that do not translate directly to the screen.
In both the series and the game, Ellie arrives to find Joel in a vulnerable state, yet fails to prevent Abby from delivering the final blows. In a grim twist, it is implied that Abby’s ferocity was such that the club broke, leaving her with a jagged piece to complete her act of vengeance.
The alteration involving Joel and Dina adds depth to their relationship, highlighting a bond that is minimal in the game. This expansion allows viewers to witness a more nuanced dynamic between characters.
“Creative liberties were taken with some aspects, undoubtedly with the approval of Neil Druckmann,” noted Isabela Merced in a discussion with Screen Rant. This approach aims to provide a more comprehensive portrayal of the characters and their relationships.
Merced elaborated, “Given their connection through Ellie, it was important to show how their interactions could develop. Their relationship bears warmth and light, where Dina can approach Joel as a confidant and, in turn, he becomes a source of support for her. This dynamic underscores their common affection for Ellie and brings to light how each perceives the growing distance in their relationships.”
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www.dexerto.com