This review contains full spoilers for episode two of The Last of Us “Infected”
The episode starts with a cold open set in Jakarta, Indonesia, two days before the outbreak in the US, similar to how the first episode began with the disturbing 1968 sequence. The audience is introduced to Ibu Ratna (Christine Hakim), an experienced mycology doctor who is investigating an incident at a flour and grain factory. She is brought to a lab to examine a specimen, which she identifies as Ophiocordyceps. However, she expresses skepticism when told that it was taken from a human.
As she investigates the incident and the fungus, she comes to the realization that there is no cure and the only way to save humanity is to bomb the city. The scene is filled with a sense of quiet dread and tension, as the audience is left wondering what fate lies ahead for humanity as the fungus continues to spread and the world descends into chaos. Ibu Ratna uttering “Bomb. Start bombing. Bomb this city and everyone in it”, reflects the gravity of the situation and the overwhelming sense of hopelessness that she is facing. The cold open effectively sets a tone of impending doom, foreshadowing the despair of the show’s present-day setting in a destroyed Boston, creating a sense of unease and foreboding dread.
After the introduction sequence, Ellie is seen sleeping in a patch of grass, Tess and Joel are keeping watch over her and grappling with her immunity to the infection. Tess believes in Ellie’s immunity, but Joel is doubtful. Tess wants to use Ellie to obtain supplies promised by Marlene, while Joel wants to return her to the quarantine zone. Ellie mentions that she might be the key to finding a cure at a Firefly base camp, but Joel is skeptical. Tess is determined to complete their mission and believes that delivering Ellie, regardless of whether she holds the cure or not, does not matter.
Bella Ramsey gives a standout performance as Ellie, bringing a much-needed sense of humor and levity to the otherwise bleak and desolate world of the story. Her portrayal of Ellie is one of a strong-willed, resourceful, and determined young girl, but also one who is at times overly confident in her abilities. This can be seen in her frequent attempts to take on more than she can handle, such as her request for a gun despite her lack of experience. This is exemplified in the scene where she asks Joel and Tess “Can I have a gun?” and is met with a resounding “Absolutely not”.
At this stage of the story, the relationship between Joel and Ellie appears to be distant and somewhat transactional, with Joel viewing her primarily as a means to obtain the car battery, and reach his brother Tommy. Meanwhile, Tess, played by Anna Torv, takes a more prominent role in the story, serving as a mentor and guide to Ellie. She provides her with valuable lessons about the outside world and offers her protection and guidance as they navigate the dangers of their post-apocalyptic world. Torv’s portrayal of Tess is absolutely terrific throughout, bringing a sense of warmth and compassion to the character. Her interactions with Joel (Pedro Pascal) are particularly noteworthy, as the two actors effectively convey a sense of history and familiarity between the characters. They bounce off each other effortlessly, providing the viewer with an overwhelming sense of “these people have been together for a long time,” despite the limited amount of screen time they have.
The episode also provides a deeper look into the state of the world beyond the Quarantine Zone, with stunning set design that is both captivating and unsettling. The imagery highlights the extent of the destruction of human civilization, depicting abandoned skyscrapers, crumbling buildings, and vehicles overrun by nature. The crumbling highway and debris add to the eerie atmosphere and showcase the devastating impact of the pandemic on the world.
Where the show truly amplifies the uneasy and unsettling atmosphere of the world is through the introduction of the clickers. The design of these creatures is absolutely terrifying, capturing the essence of their counterparts in the game perfectly whilst also creating a new sense of dread. As Joel, Ellie, and Tess confront these deformed monsters, the sense of unease and danger is palpable. The lack of cohesion in their approach to taking on these creatures is ultimately frightening, as the characters fumble through the environment, stumbling over objects and stepping on glass, alerting the clickers to their every location. The scene is an action sequence that masterfully creates a sense of tension and danger, putting the viewer on the edge of their seat.
As Tess is bitten by a clicker from the previously mentioned incident, her wound rapidly deteriorates, Joel and Ellie are left with no other option but to accept her fate. In a brave and selfless act, Tess sacrifices herself by setting the floor with gasoline and grenades, creating a massive explosion to kill the infected. However, as Joel and Ellie make their escape, Tess struggles to light the match, drawing the attention of an infected. This leads to a graphic and disturbing sequence, as the infected engrosses Tess with a kiss filled with tendrils, working their way into her mouth, the lighter finally produces a flame.
As Joel and Ellie make their way out of the building, the show presents a stunning shot of the building erupting in flames, set to the powerful soundtrack of “Allowed To Be Happy” from The Last of Us Part II. The infected burn as Joel and Ellie press on in their journey.
Episode 2 of The Last of Us takes the audience on a deeper journey into the outbreak and its origins, while also expanding on the relationship between Joel, Ellie and Tess. The episode is a masterful blend of horror, tension, and storytelling, building on the strong foundation laid in the first episode.
The episode is filled with intense and heart-pumping action sequences that keep the audience on the edge of their seats. The acting performances are top-notch, particularly Anna Torv, who delivers a truly standout performance in the final scene. The episode’s pacing is well-balanced, allowing for moments of quiet contemplation, and heart-wrenching drama. The writing is sharp, and the direction is flawless, making for an overall immersive and gripping experience. The episode is an excellent follow-up to the fantastic first episode, and it’s a testament to the show’s ability to deliver a thrilling and emotionally engaging viewing experience
Verdict: 9/10