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Warning: This article contains spoilers for The Last of Us season 2, episode 6.

In episode 6 of “The Last of Us” season 2, titled “The Price,” Pedro Pascal’s character Joel reappears in the storyline, set predominantly in the past. The show creatively and affectionately reintroduces Joel, following on from last week’s cliffhanger. This installment delves into the final years of Joel and Ellie’s bond, revealing the cause of their estrangement. It strings together flashbacks that were scattered throughout the game, presenting them consecutively for a compelling narrative.

In this installment, several memorable scenes from the game were reenacted, such as Ellie’s birthday excursion to the aerospace museum and her emotional conversation with Joel on his porch. Furthermore, it provided explanations for some intriguing mysteries that had been hinted at throughout the season. We witnessed Joel giving Ellie her guitar, glimpses of Ellie’s early relationship with Kat, insights into Joel’s inexplicable slaying of Eugene, and, most significantly, how Ellie eventually uncovered the truth about Joel taking out the Fireflies. The episode beautifully introduced Joel at the outset.

The Last Of Us Season 2, Episode 6 Adds Joel Back Into The Opening Credits

Joel’s Tendril Reappears Next To Ellie’s In The Opening Title Sequence

In the introductory scenes of “The Last of Us”, there’s a visual style reminiscent of “Game of Thrones” opening titles. Just like how “Game of Thrones” starts with a map of Westeros, revealing different realms and kingdoms as the camera pans across, “The Last of Us” begins by showing the Cordyceps fungus spreading rapidly. The most touching aspect of

Following the tragic demise of Joel at Abby’s hands in “The Last of Us” season 2, episode 2 titled “Through the Valley,” not only did Pascal’s name vanish from the credits, but also the tiny Joel tendril disappeared from the sequence’s end. For the subsequent three episodes, this alteration to the opening credits of “The Last of Us” served as a poignant reminder of the loss. In episode 6, the show signaled Joel’s return by reintroducing his tendril into the title sequence once more. Although it’s a small touch, it carries a sweet sentiment.

Joel’s Last Of Us Season 2 Return Is A Perfect Reminder Of Why He’s So Dearly Missed

His On-Screen Dynamic With Ellie Is The Heart Of The Show

In the sixth episode of season 2 of “The Last of Us”, Joel’s reappearance served as an emotional highpoint, reminding viewers why his character was so deeply missed since his demise. The bond between Joel and Ellie forms the backbone of the series. Bella Ramsey, who plays Ellie, exhibits excellent chemistry with her fellow cast members, including Isabela Merced as Dina and Gabriel Luna as Tommy. However, their relationship with Pascal, who portrays Joel, is unparalleled in its intensity. Essentially, “The Last of Us” revolves around the theme of a father-daughter relationship, and Pascal and Ramsey embody that connection exceptionally well.

It’s captivating to witness their interactions unfold, whether it’s the moment Joel helps Ellie realize her dream of space travel or when they face tougher times like when Joel discovers Ellie with a joint, a tattoo, and a love interest. Regardless of the situation, it’s always hard to tear your eyes away from their dynamic on screen.

Among all the delightful moments in Ellie’s journey, whether she’s falling for Dina or squabbling with Tommy, her interactions with Joel stand out uniquely. It was this dynamic that captivated viewers from the very beginning of season 1, and it remains the most compelling aspect of season 2. In many opinions, “The Price” is the finest episode of The Last of Us since Joel’s demise, and it’s no accident that it’s the first one post-Joel’s death to feature him prominently.

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2025-05-20 13:21