Bella Ramsey Shuts Down Doubters with Powerful Season 2 Moment in The Last of Us

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Warning: Contains spoilers for The Last of Us season 2 episode 1.

The discussion about whether Bella Ramsey, who was 19 during the filming of season 2 of The Last of Us, had to mature on-screen from her initial role, has always been a point of contention. However, it appears that the actress from Nottingham is intent on putting an end to this debate as she begins the new season.

Following an intense introduction featuring this year’s quasi-antagonist Abby (played by Kaitlyn Dever), the Sci-Fi series airing on Sky Atlantic brings us back to Ellie from Ramsey, subjecting her to a grueling training regimen so severe that viewers might initially think she’s in mortal danger.

Right from the start, it’s evident that the character we’re encountering this time is a different version of Ellie – one that’s older, wiser from the streets, and significantly more imposing physically. She’s prepared to fight fiercely, willing to risk her own safety in the process.

Absolutely, even during season 1, Ellie didn’t shy away from conflicts, but she was fundamentally a character who was more exposed and dependent on her weapons to survive in the battlefield, rather than relying solely on her courage.

Currently, we observe the development of a character who seems equally capable in a fight as Joel or Tommy, and this is largely due to the outstanding performance of the actress portraying her.

In the captivating world of film, I find myself deeply impressed by Ramsey’s transformation in Season 1 compared to their portrayal in Episode 1 of the new season. Instead of the previous subdued demeanor, Ramsey now carries themselves with a stronger, more commanding presence. This deliberate change is evident throughout their performance, as the sturdier character they’ve become, frequently standing with crossed arms and rolled-up sleeves, showcasing fresh tattoos. This new, assertive on-screen persona is truly captivating.

For fans who appreciated the enhanced gameplay with Ellie’s expanded build in the original version, this will be pleasing news: This evolution is a crucial aspect of Naughty Dog’s 2020 sequel, both in terms of story and gameplay, and Ramsey effectively portrays the character as it is depicted in the PlayStation follow-up from the get-go.

Moreover, Ellie’s emotional development from the very start is subtly depicted, as the strained bond between her and Joel (Pedro Pascal) is suggested in their initial conversation with Jesse (Young Mazino), where Jesse delivers Joel’s stringent guidelines about combat, which later becomes a recurring theme throughout the episode.

Initially, Ellie from season 1 wasn’t fond of being ordered around, but over the course of the series, she grew to respect her surrogate father figure despite her initial reluctance. In the wilderness, she understood that for both her safety and Joel’s, she needed to abide by his guidelines.

In this case, Jesse from Mazino’s explains that Ellie isn’t just wanting independence, she has a strong requirement for it. Ramsey clarifies Ellie’s mindset, showing her frustration at Joel’s protection, which stems from years of personal growth and gaining respect within her community. However, Joel is the only one who hasn’t noticed this development, and Jesse delivers the line with a bitter tone to emphasize this disparity.

Back then, as a youthful teenager, I, too, felt empowered and ripe for change, eager to expand my horizons and mature, though in retrospect, I wasn’t quite as prepared as I thought I was.

Throughout the sequel of the game series, Ellie encounters a recurring motif as she feels suffocated by what seems like excessive behavior from Joel. Just as the character’s physicality effortlessly conveys emotion, Ramsey portrays this emotional burden convincingly starting from the very first scenes.

In Ramsey’s performance, there’s a mix of immodesty that mirrors her youthful impulsiveness from season 1 and a confidence stemming from her increasing self-belief, much like how her character evolves throughout the game.

This blend is particularly noticeable during scenes involving Pascal’s character, Joel, especially when he clashes with him in progressively intense confrontations. The strong and captivating performances of the lead actors as they dissect the heartwarming relationship that evolved in season 1, relying on the connection they fostered throughout the series, is truly impactful.

The primary actors have talked at length about their on- and off-screen connection, and how they developed it over a year’s worth of filming under tough circumstances. Without this connection, would the impact of their breakup be as profound? Could a replacement actress like Ellie capture these emotional moments with the same intensity? It seems unlikely.

To ensure that Part 2’s key surprises pack a powerful punch, it’s crucial that there’s a strong bond between the main characters, and Ramsey’s skill in portraying both deep affection towards Pascal in late Season 1 and growing animosity in Season 2’s premiere, is setting the stage for these developments to have an even greater emotional impact.

In my perspective, analyzing just a single episode out of an entire season, primarily focusing on a specific scene within it, might not fully encompass the entire picture. However, even with these limitations, I can confidently say that those who had concerns about Ramsey’s ability to progress from Season 1 to Season 2, and consequently from Game 1 to Game 2, can rest easy now.

In terms of both character portrayal and emotional depth, The Last of Us nailed its casting choices, dismissing any skepticism.

The Last of Us season 2 is now showing on Sky Atlantic and NOW.

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2025-04-14 15:05