npr.org
The Last of Us Season Finale: Revenge, and an Uncertain Future
The Last of Us season finale ends with Ellie held at gunpoint by Abby after a revenge-fueled quest resulting in multiple deaths, setting the stage for a new chapter focused on Ellie and Abby's conflict.
- How does the season depict the consequences of violence and revenge, and what are the broader societal implications shown?
- The season explores the cyclical nature of violence and revenge, highlighting the devastating consequences for both Ellie and Abby. Ellie's relentless pursuit of revenge leads to the deaths of Abby's companions and leaves Ellie wounded and morally compromised. Abby, having lost her friends, also remains trapped in a cycle of retribution.
- What is the central narrative shift in "The Last of Us" season two, and what are its immediate implications for the show's future?
- The Last of Us season finale concluded with a significant shift in narrative focus, moving from Joel and Ellie to Ellie and Abby. This change, precipitated by Joel's death in the second episode, sets the stage for a revenge-driven plotline dominating the rest of the season. The episode ends with Ellie at gunpoint, the outcome uncertain.
- What are the underlying issues explored in the season's conclusion, and what potential future trends or impacts are suggested by this narrative shift?
- The season's structure, with its extended focus on Ellie and Abby's conflict, suggests a potential shift in the show's core themes. While the first season emphasized survival and the bond between Joel and Ellie, the second season deepens the exploration of the psychological impact of violence and its long-term ramifications. The conclusion leaves significant questions about the future direction of the narrative and the characters' fates.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The review frames the season's narrative choices, particularly the killing of Joel, as risky gambles that didn't always pay off. This framing emphasizes the negative aspects of the season and downplays any potential artistic merit or thematic depth. The headline itself, "[A review discussing details of the season finale]" sets a negative tone and may influence readers to approach the review with a critical mindset.
Language Bias
The review uses loaded language such as "reckless revenge mission," "severely unlikeable character," and "dreary, predictable and manipulative." These terms convey negative judgments and could influence the reader's perception of the season. More neutral alternatives might include "vengeful quest," "complex character," and "dark and intense."
Bias by Omission
The review focuses heavily on the narrative choices and character arcs, particularly Ellie and Abby's relationship, but gives less attention to the broader context of the post-apocalyptic world and the development of other characters. While this is understandable given the focus on the core conflict, the omission of other plotlines and character developments might leave some viewers with an incomplete understanding of the overall story.
False Dichotomy
The review presents a somewhat false dichotomy by contrasting the "delicate two-step" of the first season with the "darker path" of the second. The implication is that a darker tone automatically equates to a less successful season. This ignores the possibility that a darker exploration of themes like revenge and violence can be a valid artistic choice.
Sustainable Development Goals
The season depicts a cycle of violence and revenge between Ellie and Abby, highlighting the failure of justice and the devastating consequences of unresolved conflict. The actions of both characters, driven by grief and a thirst for vengeance, undermine the establishment of peaceful and inclusive societies. The lack of effective conflict resolution mechanisms within the post-apocalyptic setting further emphasizes this negative impact.