8 Essential Scenes From The Last Of Us 2 That HBO’s Season 2 Must Include

Summary

The show should include and expand on these scenes. It’s possible they could re-create the magic of Bill and Frank’s award-winning episode.
Many of The Last of Us 2’s best scenes are hopeful, which helps balance the dire tone.

Regardless of the contentious reception that “The Last of Us Part II” has received, anticipation remains (largely) strong for the second season on HBO Max. Although viewers are eager to discover the fates of Joel and Ellie following the ambiguous finale in season 1, gamers who already know their ultimate destiny are excited to witness their favorite moments reinterpreted by the show.

This collection focuses on crucial scenes for the narrative of “The Last of Us Part II”; it’s noted for outstanding actor performances, their emotional resonance, and connections to the game’s themes. Ideally, each scene will not just be included but further developed to help the upcoming series reach its full creative potential.

Major spoilers ahead for The Last of Us Part 2 and potentially The Last of Us Season 2!

8. Ellie Sings Take On Me

“Talking away…”

In the bleak world portrayed in The Last of Us 2, fans eagerly seek any trace of optimism. Ellie’s rendition of ‘Take On Me’ stands out as a beacon of hope, made even more poignant by Ashley Johnson’s authentic portrayal of a girl who grew up in the post-apocalyptic world. Despite her singing talent, Johnson was guided to deliver the song in a rough, subdued manner that fits Ellie’s character better. This results in a tender, heartwarming scene between Ellie and Dina, with their serenade resonating all the more due to its genuine feel.

In case this game scene isn’t essential for the TV show, there might be a possibility it gets eliminated due to its lengthy or elaborate aspects. However, in episode 7, the tune from the song can be perceived as being played off-screen, while Ellie and her first love, Riley, are seen playing on stairs with an escalator. This suggests that the writers haven’t forgotten about this significant moment.

7. Ellie’s Fifteenth Birthday

“Happy Birthday Kiddo.”

While the upcoming episode has been hinted by the trailer, fans eagerly anticipate that Ellie’s 15th birthday could be the focus of a full episode. The scene between Joel and Ellie, filled with their signature father-daughter banter at its peak, undeniably serves as a delight for fans.

Yet, the museum scene is not merely a tribute to fans. It plays a crucial role in revealing Ellie’s motivations. Each flashback corresponds with Ellie’s emotional state, delving into her complex, affectionate bond with her father figure, which explains why she cannot abandon her mission. Additionally, it provides an intriguing comparison to Abby’s aquarium flashback.

6. Abby and Owen’s Trip to the Aquarium

“Like Zoos… But For Fish.”

One key environment in the game is the aquarium, which plays a significant role in fleshing out Abby’s character and her connection with Owen. As time passes and their relationship sours, the sense of awe and wonder that the aquarium once held for Abby gradually fades.

However, during Abby’s flashback sequence, it presents a particularly enchanting moment within the game’s narrative.

Two not-so-bright teenagers in love express their enthusiasm for hidden locations from a bygone era, delving into everything the pre-apocalyptic wreckage has to reveal. This flashback serves to make Abby more endearing to players who may not have taken a liking to her due to her aspirations. Consequently, the aquarium scene contributes to Abby’s character development and adds layers of complexity to an already intricate storyline involving two contrasting factions.

5. Abby and Ellie’s First Meeting

“Please Don’t Do This.”

One of the most emotionally charged moments in the game occurs when Ellie first encounters Abby. Their introduction is far from ideal, as Ellie is attacked by Abby’s WLF companions and ends up trapped under them. In a desperate plea, she implores Abby to abandon her plan to eliminate a specific individual.

In simple terms, Abby’s choice and Ellie’s subsequent sadness establish the overall mood for the game. Druckmann emphasized the significance of nailing this sequence, aiming to instill intense fury and detestation towards Abby in players. However unsettling it may be, this pivotal scene is crucial for future seasons.

4. Ellie and Dina’s Dance

“I Think They Should Be Terrified Of You.”

Ellie and Dina’s bond in the game is a significant step forward for LGBTQ+ representation, showcasing one of the most captivating romances found within video games. One pivotal scene, their kiss, carries immense weight, not just from a narrative standpoint but also socially. This scene underscores the daily struggles gay couples face when they choose to make their relationship public, highlighting the ongoing issue of homophobia in society.

Additionally, this scenario offers an opportunity to experiment with sequence. In his commentary, Druckmann admitted that he was unsure about the optimal arrangement for his flashbacks, resulting in a kiss occurring late in the game, despite it being the earliest adult Ellie event chronologically. Consequently, from a timeline perspective, the opening scene of season 2 should depict Ellie and Dina’s kiss first.

3. Lev and Abby on the Skybridge

“What’s Going On With You And Owen?”

On her second day in Seattle, Abby’s experience is one of the most challenging parts of the game, yet it’s equally significant for her growing connection with Lev. The Skybridge scene succinctly encapsulates the highlights of Day 2 in a compact, dramatic moment. During this high-route traversal, Lev shows Abby perspectives she hadn’t seen before, emphasizing a central theme of the game. This is accomplished while maintaining a captivating blend of tension and humor.

In an unexpected moment during gameplay, Lev’s inopportune query about Abby’s past relationship brings about the most uproarious laughter among gamers. This humor is even more exaggerated considering that Abby is on the brink of instant doom and grappling with a severe panic attack. Abby’s retort mirrors that of an older sister scolding a pesky younger brother. However, it’s their subsequent interactions where we see a shift in their relationship – Lev assisting Abby in overcoming her acrophobia (fear of heights) through intense exposure therapy, ultimately strengthening their bond by the end of the sequence.

2. A Look Into Haven

“You’re My People!”

In the town where they call home, the Seraphites – an exceptionally challenging enemy group due to their religious extremism – dwell. On Day 3 in Seattle, Abby’s journey leads her to a target of both the WLF and the Seraphites, who serve as the cult’s opposing faction. This sets off a chain of dramatic events that ultimately wrap up all storylines for Abby, reinforcing her connection with Lev while causing her to distance herself from others.

The most dramatic sequence in the game is reminiscent of a movie scene, making it an ideal candidate for translation into a TV series. Upon conversion, this segment is expected to captivate viewers with its action, suspense, and shock value across all demographics. It also serves as a powerful thematic message, portraying the grim, violent consequences that can ensue when individuals fail to overcome their hatred.

1. Joel and Ellie reunite on the Porch

“I Would Do It All Over Again.”

The conclusion in “The Last of Us 2” is heart-wrenchingly hard to bear, and the poignancy of that moment is heightened due to its tender nature. It’s the last dialogue exchange between Joel and Ellie that carries a profound weight, as each pause resonates deeply with their intricate past.

There’s a lot to discuss regarding this particular sequence, but without giving away all the surprises, let me just say that it meets every expectation. Featuring outstanding performances by Troy Baker and Ashley Johnson, it packs an emotional punch and ties up the various themes from the game in a satisfying way. It’s essential viewing, if you ask me.

2025-03-23 16:11