‘The Last of Us’ Proves Joel’s Brutal Decision Was Necessary

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Viewers are about to re-enter the barren world of “The Last of Us” once more, a place marked by solitude, dread, and a flicker of optimism amidst despair. This spark has the capacity to illuminate its surroundings, and the upcoming second season of the series hints at a community for both Joel and Ellie. This is something they’ve longed for throughout their lives, yet with such a community comes a notable vulnerability.

The second season of “The Last of Us” may uncover the secret that Joel (Pedro Pascal) kept hidden from Ellie (Bella Ramsey). He prevented the Fireflies from utilizing Ellie as a cure. He prioritized his own self-interest over potentially saving the world, but this decision might not remain so straightforward.

In my perspective as a movie reviewer, the premiere episode of Season 1, titled “When You’re Lost in the Darkness,” offers an intriguing premise for “The Last of Us.” The scientist’s explanation about the disease that led to the apocalypse before the infection spread, hints at the possibility of no cure. This revelation significantly impacts Joel’s character arc from the end of the first season, potentially shifting him from an anti-hero to a full-fledged hero. However, what I appreciate most about “The Last of Us” is its ability to reside in the gray area between heroism and villainy, where the traditional definitions of these roles lose their relevance.

In the opening scene of The Last of Us, Dr. Neyman states that there are no existing solutions for this situation – neither preventatives nor cures have been developed, and it’s impossible to create them at present.

The TV show portrayal of Joel at the end is intriguing as he’s merely a shattered man searching for motivation to continue. To label him as a hero who saved Ellie would contradict his character development. Furthermore, placing the scientist scene early on adds depth and complexity to an already multifaceted universe.

Did Joel Save Ellie or Himself in ‘The Last of Us’?

In the universe of The Last of Us, the day is not conquered; it’s salvaged. Joel’s decisive action at the end of Season 1 isn’t merely about rescuing Ellie, but rather about saving himself from yet another heartache. He may appear to act selfishly despite his deep affection for Ellie. However, if Joel’s actions in the hospital aren’t jeopardizing the chance for a cure for the infection, they become intensely personal for both parties. If Joel is saving himself, he is simultaneously taking something away from the Fireflies – either the belief in a cure or their faith that it could succeed. Each person Joel kills in that hospital is fighting for a cause and shares as much hope for a tranquil world as Joel does.

Joel’s relentless focus is deeply ingrained, shaped by years of hardship, to the extent that he seems oblivious to his surroundings. His intense emotional bond with others makes him particularly affected when someone he cares about dies. This isn’t a defiant act from Joel, but more of a survival instinct. He perceives the Fireflies as separate from his reality, as he feels isolated and self-reliant. While he may be preserving himself, he is not necessarily fighting for or against a cause. His actions have transcended that point.

How Are the Fireflies Depicted in ‘The Last of Us’?

As a film enthusiast, I must admit that “The Last of Us” doesn’t dwell extensively on the Fireflies like a typical show might. Just as the game does, it introduces other groups but doesn’t create significant connections between them. They are scattered across the United States, each struggling for survival with no distinct ideology beyond that. The Fireflies aren’t the heroes or victims of this narrative. If there’s no cure, they aren’t protecting anything; they’re merely clinging onto hope, just like Joel is.

“The Last of Us” takes the time to present us with various perspectives from the apocalypse. It isn’t hard to empathize with the personal struggles that each member of the Fireflies might have felt before their encounter with Joel.

As a film enthusiast, what truly sets this series apart is its ability to evoke empathy in every character, making their struggles feel deeply personal. The main character, Joel, isn’t exempt from this treatment – his journey is given the same weight and depth as those of the supporting characters. However, it seems that Joel’s actions don’t always result in meaningful consequences, allowing the status quo to persist. This pattern suggests that violence ultimately triumphs, while hope falters.

The Fireflies, who embody optimism, suffer a harsh punishment for their beliefs, whereas Joel’s pain is the only narrative thread that remains prominent.

Where Does This Leave ‘The Last of Us’ Season 2?

Joel and Ellie’s bond now finds an intriguing position, especially if The Last of Us Season 2 delves deeper into the wider world beyond the primary characters. The consequences of Joel’s actions are certain to echo within their core group, but exploring more of the world may reveal how isolated Joel has become, and consequently, us as viewers. This brings back the theme of separation, highlighting just how disconnected Joel is from everything, and how instinctual his decision-making becomes. If there was no other way to use Ellie as a cure, at least for Joel, it wouldn’t be in vain. And that’s all we’re allowed to understand.

In The Last of Us, it’s the gradual loss of humanity that keeps us hooked. Every character is fighting for something they cherish, and sometimes, the only way to determine who continues that fight is through violence. This show beautifully illustrates how protecting your own interests often extinguishes another’s hope, a hope that might be equally precious to someone else. The Last of Us is essentially a tale of survival; to endure, one must be ready to defend what little they still possess. Catch the premiere of The Last of Us Season 2 on Max on April 13.

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2025-04-13 05:32