The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 4 Reveals Shocking War and Deepens Ellie & Dina’s Bond

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Warning! Spoilers ahead for The Last of Us season 2, episode 4, “Scars!”

I’ve been eagerly anticipating a standout guest star since the second season of “The Last of Us” started, and in episode 4, “Scars,” Jeffrey Wright truly steps things up. It’s been quite some time since we last encountered FEDRA, and even longer since “The Last of Us” delved into the political conflicts and brutal nature of another rising group. As we uncover who the WLFs are and their ongoing conflict with the cult called the Scars, the show seamlessly blends its established themes with intense action and heartfelt moments that keep us invested in the characters.

In episode 3 of The Last of Us season 2, both the series and Ellie took a moment to catch their breath. Although it didn’t stir me emotionally as much, this pause in the tension was necessary before the onslaught of information in the fourth episode. The title card, “Seattle Day One,” suggests that Ellie and Dina’s swift and safe return to Jackson is unlikely, but there’s no doubt their adventure is only beginning. I’m looking forward to exploring the new lore hinted at in episode 4 and how the story has expanded in scope.

In the show “Scars,” significant secrets are unveiled, and it becomes evident that the narrative progression is accelerated following the deliberate tempo of “The Path.” The storyline offers insightful moments with Dina and Ellie as they trail Abby’s footsteps, leaving no trace of Kaitlyn Dever since we witnessed Abby stabbing Joel. This leads me to ponder if she could potentially be concealed within the WLF in some way. As the episode concludes, it is revealed that Ellie and Dina have stumbled into a battlefield without realizing it, suggesting they’ll need to defend themselves for reasons beyond just seeking revenge.

The Last Of Us Relies On Bella Ramsey & Isabela Merced’s Chemistry In “Scars”

The Pair Prove That Ellie & Dina’s Relationship Is Worth Fighting For

In “The Last of Us,” the action and violence take center stage in episode 4, following a more subtle narrative from “The Path.” Isaac, a recurring character played by Wright, is proving to be an intriguing antagonist, though the show skillfully leaves us pondering if there’s truly a right side between the WLF and the Scars. The presence of a religious cult adds layers of enigma and supernatural elements to the story, while the stark contrast between the militaristic WLF and the more organic Scars sets up an engaging conflict that feels like the prelude to an intriguing war.

Typically, “The Last of Us” alternates the pulse-pounding tension of combat with soothing pauses that ease the excitement. The scene where Ellie plays the guitar and sings for Dina is almost painfully exposed and authentic. Yet, Ramsey effectively portrayed Ellie’s mixed feelings – a hint of insecurity and embarrassment combined with seriousness and openness to Dina. Episode 4 heavily depends on the chemistry between Ramsey and Merced, and I was fully convinced by the intense highs and lows their relationship navigated throughout the episode.

In this intense moment, Ellie’s hidden emotions erupt when she discloses her secret to Dina, shielding her from an Infected by receiving a bite. This scene was skillfully executed, but I found the subsequent events perplexing. Given the stressful circumstances and the near-death experience of Ellie, I expected Dina to have more inquiries about Ellie’s immunity. However, it seems that one revelation often paves the way for another. It’s likely that Dina will eventually discover Joel’s actions at the hospital, perhaps not until they confront Abby.

In the realm of survival series, The Last of Us stands out as the epitome of LGBTQ+ portrayal. The evolution of Ellie and Dina’s relationship feels genuine and avoids being merely fan service. A poignant speech by Merced delves into the complexity of Dina’s sexuality, elucidating to Ellie why their relationship unfolded as it did. Yet, Dina never expresses regret for her emotional journey. This authentic depiction of love between Dina and Ellie, reinforced by Ellie’s swift acceptance of their evolving family dynamic, is a level of realism that fewer shows can match.

Now that Dina is pregnant, Ellie is aware that things have significantly shifted. The risks and costs associated with their mission have skyrocketed, making Ellie stand to lose even more than she previously had. If Ellie represents one side of Joel’s coin, she won’t hesitate to take drastic actions to safeguard Dina and the potential for a family. We ponder how Dina will respond to Ellie’s secrets and what sacrifices Ellie may make. Nevertheless, I suspect that Dina might not be prepared to jeopardize Ellie in pursuit of a distant hope for a cure.

Dina & Ellie Are Poised To Face Impossible Odds In The Last Of Us

The End Of “Scars” Sets The Pair Up To Take On An Army

By the finale of “Scars,” it’s evident that Dina and Ellie’s forthcoming assignment is unmistakable: they must traverse the perilous battlefield of Seattle, hoping to find someone who knows Abby’s whereabouts. This mission is risky and costly, yet they were aware of this danger since their departure from Jackson. Given the challenges ahead, it would be intriguing if extra, unauthorized support from Jackson might materialize in the upcoming episodes. Jesse could prove an exciting new element to the evolving relationship between Ellie and Dina.

In the brief span of their journey within “The Last of Us”, Joel seems to be gradually slipping from the limelight of the story, even though it is his spirit that has been guiding Ellie all along. As life often does after a loved one departs, it continues moving forward. Soon, Ellie will find herself at a crossroads, needing to determine if seeking vengeance for someone who won’t return is a sacrifice worth making for the sake of her future. This dilemma is one that “The Last of Us” repeatedly presents to its characters throughout the series, and I am yet to discover what Ellie will choose.

New episodes of The Last of Us season 2 air weekly on Sundays at 9 PM EST on Max and HBO.

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2025-05-05 05:20