In The Last of Us Episode 4, Joel and Ellie’s journey is disrupted by a band of vigilantes, who might prove to be a bigger roadblock than they can imagine. Moreover, the episode also introduces the near-paranoid Kathleen, played by Melanie Lynskey along with the series lead Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey. Notably, the episode is directed by Jeremy Webb and written by Craig Mazin and has a total runtime of 45 minutes.
-No Spoilers-
The Last of Us Episode 4 Review
The latest instalment of the post-fungal pandemic series starts with Ellie and Joel resuming their journey after picking up their needed supplies from Bill and Frank. And heading up straight on a road trip setting, with a Hank William song, and a series of overtly-intended puns.
The events of their journey to Wyoming come to a halt after the duo arrives in a rogue town (which to be honest, can be used to describe each and every place on the map) and find themselves entrapped by a group of armed vigilantes. The episode then mostly revolves around their counterfight with the rogue elements and their bonding over Ellie’s first attempt to kill (at least in front of Joel).
The euphoria of The Last of Us Episode 3 is still so fresh, that the latest continuation feels like a lukewarm episode that only moves the plot forward without much ado. Even though the instalment is crispy and gripping in terms of all the story elements, there is not enough fueling factor to drive your thrill forward. Moreover, it would be unjust to judge a setting-based episode with this much scrutiny, but such is the impact that the series has had so far.
There are multiple light-hearted moments in The Last of Us Episode 3, taking place between Joel and Ellie. Which points towards a stronger bonding, and a greater understanding among the duo. Moreover, the episode also highlights Joel’s list of priorities in terms of family and survival, and Ellie is only a ‘cargo’, that he has to deliver.
Also Read: The Last of Us Episode 3 Review: Love in the Time of Apocalypse
Throughout the episode, we also get to see Ellie and her puns in an attempt to bond with the aloof Joel. Which feels way more artificial as compared to other aspects of the series. And really doesn’t work like the rest of the bits. Moreover, I am optimistic enough that we’ll get to see more natural methods of building a connection, later on.
The cast is impressive as usual and with the entry of Melanie Lynskey, things are only going to peak from here on. Furthermore, the clickers did not make any direct appearance in the episode, which just made me feel more safe and controlled.
Final Thoughts
There is still a lot left to be uncovered in the upcoming episodes, and you can make peace with that fact alone. Fillers are like a set of harsh truths associated with any series, and ones that don’t last long. Moreover, things are taking shape in Joel and Elli’s lethal journey, and we are definitely in for a treat.
You can stream the episode on Disney+ Hotstar. Let us know your thoughts about it in the comment section below.
Also Read: The Last Of Us Episode 3 Twitter Reactions: Ships Asail as Fans Wholeheartedly Embrace this Lovefest