THE LAST OF US EPISODE 7 REACTION - LEFT BEHIND - 1X7 - HBO - PEDRO PASCAL, BELLA RAMSEY

Join us as we react to The Last of Us episode 7 titled Left Behind! This episode is a bit of a flashback that serves as an adaptation to the DLC for The Last of Us under the same title. In this prequel we get to know more about Ellie's past and her tragic romance with Riley a young firefly that wants to make a difference. At this point in the story in the present timeline Joel is out of commission and trying to recover from his injuries from the previous episode. We hope you enjoy our reaction and discussion. Let us know in the comments what were your thoughts on this episode!
If you'd like to support the channel and gain access to the full length reaction become a member of our patreon bit.ly/3ICVrJ6

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

⚠️⚠️⚠️ Make sure to add a spoiler warning when talking about future events that have yet to make it to the show. For those of you who are being introduced to the world of TLOU please beware the comment section and limit yourself to commenting and not reading too much. Thank you for your support and we’ll see you in the next one!

[@pencil6965]

Ehh, i'm glad they had a whole ep for left behind, cuz riley is a huge motivator for ellie and part of her survivor's guilt

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Absolutely agreed! They also nailed their relationship, we absolutely adored the two!

[@pencil6965]

i do agree it could've been cool if they spread out the story over many episodes instead of made it all in one. either way, riley deserves a good chunk of the story considering how important she was to ellie!

[@アキコ2003]

@@pencil6965 yea right, if people are already complaining about even 1 episode, calling it filler and woke then imagine if they had 3 episodes in the mall. No

[@pencil6965]

@@アキコ2003 no, not full episodes. interweaving parts of it , like 15-20 mins in some of the episodes

[@joeokabayashi8669]

I agree. I think viewers who have not played the game or watched gameplay need more time to grasp how deep Ellie felt for Riley and to show how much of a teenager's view of the world was taken away by the apocolypse.

[@kaleyrose47]

Even without any dialogue, you could tell what Ellie and Joel were saying. When he held her hand at the end I got so teary. Pedro and Bella are just fantastic!

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Absolutely loved how they were able to establish how strong and how meaningful their relationship is. Both of their performances were incredible throughout the show! We're so happy we got an amazing adaptation 😁

[@sarahsav618]

Sorry for so many comments but I wanted to add that what I love about this show that they allow their teenagers to be teenagers. Speaking like teenagers would (*side eye* riverdale), talking about topics that teenagers would talk about, experiencing romantic love for the first time but also reacting to this post apocalyptic world like a teenager would.(*side eye* riverdale).

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

YESSSS, THIS!!! So often teens or even children get so dumbed down, or over-simplified - children and teens are very intuitive and have a different way of seeing the world, and most times it just feels lowkey disrespectful of children and teens as a whole (Vampire Diaries kinda did the same thing where teenagers act like whole ass adults 😂) This episode definitely nailed how kids talk and interact with eachother, and the romantic plotline was handled so beautifully!

[@Thedutchman12]

FUN FACT EP7: Unlike the previous episodes, this one was written entirely by Neil Druckmann.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Interesting!!

[@petercourtien4581]

There are a ton of reactions to TLOU on KZbin. You two have quickly become my favorite reactors to this show. So relatable.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Aw wow, this is the best compliment, thank you so much!! We are so lucky to have your support!

[@patrickmarques2876]

I studied a bit at uni about literature and that ending was really good not showing us everything: the entire show is based on character's perspectives. Not a single omniscient narrator to tell us anything. So that abrupt ending thinking about Riley and their last moments not showing us how she killed her meant Ellie not being ready to talk about or open up over that situation with no one. Not even with us. Comment aside, another great reaction from you guys. I cried during many scenes including the escalator, the carousel and after Riley got bit. Such awesome performances! Greetings from Brazil 🇧🇷

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Yes!! The ambiguity of the ending and how Riley died is powerful - first it builds the tension and fear that Ellie must have had to do it herself, and compound that with her survivor's guilt, it allows us to understand her and her motivations better!

[@DavidB-2268]

The reason for sending Riley to Atlanta is explained in the dialogue: Riley: "I'd never let them use them (the pipe bombs) anywhere near you." The Fireflies send new recruits to posts away from where they grew up so that they won't have any connections to people they might end up killing. It also reinforces the idea that "the Fireflies are your family now."

[@TimSedai]

I can say these *slow(er) episodes are hitting VERY hard for my friends who aren't invested in the game. I LOVE the show and to me a large majority of whats been cut wouldn't have made as good tv as it did game. Similarly this episode and ep 3 being drawn out character studies wouldn't have mad as good game as it did tv. Can't wait for the final 2 episodes

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

I think seeing Joel upside down from one of Bill’s traps desperately trying to break loose as infected come through the house would’ve made great TV! We saw in episode 1 they know how to direct these sequences flawlessly. They didn’t adapt because these sequences would’ve cost them a lot more money not necessary because it would’ve been bad TV. They just say they chose to do it for the sake of the story so that the entire game fanbase gets behind the idea of the adaptation cutting it. But a big part of it is HBO saying nope, that’s too much money for an episode of a show we have yet to see if it succeeds. I’m sure that season 2 will include many more of these moments

[@Ines-lc1xi]

even tho i can understand your point of view, i still think that the show doesn’t necessarily need more actions and infected shooting or whatever, it feels like the show is actually trying to break from this heavy action oriented that was the game bc it would be too repetitive and actually boring for people who never played tlou and know nothing abt it, and i do think that what belongs to a game should stay in a game bc outside of it, it would just be silly. Also they’re entirely more focused on the "love theme" that was already in the game to expand on it. I even think Ellie and Joel’s relationship is even more special because of it. Every relationships we’ve seen so far were merely a reflection of ellie and joel’s relationship and ending. So technically we’re getting a lot of their relationship even more than the game. Anyway tried to explain my pov but yeah can’t wait for ep 8 and see ur reaction of it !!

[@raven_in_disguise1649]

Man thank you so much for saying all this I thought I was the only one who thought this!!! Like you said her and riley's relationship helps us with her and Joel's relationship is exactly what what I saw and why this episode out of all is my absolute fave, which is a bold declaration if you ask me, as much as I loved all the action pact stuff and all the infected things man what gets me the most is the emotional scenes and especially between Joel and Ellie which I was surprisingly and beautifully surprised by this episode!! For Joel and Ellie to hold hands man that never happend in the game and when it happend here it was something that I didn't know I needed! To witness and experience it melted and warmed my heart in ways I cant explain!!! They explored a medium in Joel and Ellie that I always wanted and anticipated in the game, but it never happend and sadly it breaks my heart when people witness the same things as I do but react to them differently like here, you can tell they were a bit disappointed and as much as I loved their reaction I wish they saw past all the pacing and just fell deeply more in love with how this episode was created to build Joel's and Ellies relationship! In the game we saw alot of Ellie taking care of Joel but we never saw him actually witness it consciously and when he did here in the show man it was so beautiful to see how Joel is sincerely surprised with how Ellie is committed to be staying by his side till the end! It even humbles and melts his heart in way and when he gives in her helping him man that was so Beautuful 😭❤ I'll have this over any infected or accurate action pact stuff from the game! Lastly I am sad that people take this scene for granted. Even in the beginning of the episode where Joel tells ellie to leave but she cusses him out and he grabs her and pushes her away and when she walks away he looks so vulnerable and heartbroken that he pushed her away, he even looks regretful that he told her to leave because deeply in his heart now that's the last thing he wouldve asked of her! He now finally sees her as his daughter and he doesn't want to let her go and when he sheded that tear 😭❤ I am truly and sincerely very grateful for this episode!!!

[@emiliemish2440]

Agreed! And like I'm sorry but tons of action in this show is not necessary. I've never been an action first kind of girl because I find that a lot of times action turns into filler and overall pointless for the story. It also helps this show separate itself from its genre. It doesn't care about action sequences or overexplaining the infected. Like Joel is a 50something year old man whose back sucks and shit like its not really realistic for him to be choking out and shooting ammo he doesn't have left and right. I just don't vibe with the "I want more action" criticism cause ultimately that seems like a personal preference over a genuine critique of storytelling.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Like we said in the discussion, when it comes to the emotional beats they got it down 100% and we’re super happy with that. Our concerns are more regarding tension and the “horror” element the game had that so far the show has only dabbled in. We also don’t want it all to be about tension and horror. It’s about balance. We’ve had our episodes for character exploration and arcs. But The Last of Us is a very well balanced mix of everything. Emotional element, tension, action and horror. Our main criticism was the pacing of this episode in particular. Do we love the characters and the amazing performances in this episode? Yes absolutely. But if we compare it to another character focused episode we’d say episode 3 did it better. Anyways again like we said this is a concern and not yet turned into a reality. It all depends on how the next 2 episodes conclude this version of the story.

[@WarKrieg]

Skip to the bottom for the TLDR. Regarding your closing comments, as a non-gamer I can tell you that I didn't miss infected action at all. And I actually appreciated that every single action sequence advanced the story and that gratuitous action was omitted. Things that are thrilling for an actively involved gamer can seem needless to someone just watching. Another thing is that these infected are so strong and terrifying that little effective resistance seems possible. In the game (I watched some of it on YT) by necessity they are killed with relative ease (how many have you killed at this stage in the game? Hundreds?). But the ones in the show seem MUCH stronger and faster. I think this limits what you can do with them against just our duo. Consider this: the infected are so lethal that a single one of them managed to fuck up TWO ARMED people in this episode before they killed him. In episode 2, two or three infected were enough to fuck up TWO out of our trio. In episode 5, while the trio on the ground did better, they got Sam. Every single encounter with these things has been lethal. And this is a whole ass generation after the outbreak! So clearly, humanity hasn't begun to figure out how to deal with these things as an individual or small group (an entity like FEDRA and all their military apparatus clearly manages). This ain't the walking dead where months after the outbreak, our characters can sleepwalk through hordes of zombies. Based on the show, an encounter with an infected will probably result in your death. Given those odds, I think it makes a lot of sense for the show to limit such encounters. TLDR: the infected as so strong in the show that it makes sense to severely limit their appearances.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

From a story point element I understand all of your points. The thing about these moments we were talking about is that it’s hard to explain the impact they had if you haven’t experienced them yourself. It’s like talking about a movie you haven’t seen. I can tell you all about it but it won’t have the same impact. There are moments in the game that truly are iconic for the fan base. I don’t wanna see Joel gunning down a hoard of infected haha but what I would’ve liked for the show to try and mimic here and there is the amount of tension in some segments of the story. So far the ending of episode 5 nailed it. Episode 1 & 2 were the perfect balance of the things we’re both commenting on. My guess is that these cuts came down to 1 Mainly budget and 2 it didn’t quite work for the script when they only have 9 episodes for one season thus them having to cut more of the quiet and tense and give us more dialogue and exposition. That being said if these 2 episodes are indeed tense then it’ll be more clear that it was a matter of pacing and budgeting all 9 episodes. Thank you for sharing your insight 😃

[@WarKrieg]

@@OfficialMediaKnights Ok that makes sense. I do understand the frustration when important and cherished parts of the source material are omitted. Now that the show is successful and budget is less of an issue, I wonder if it's possible to integrate some of that stuff in season 2. Who knows. I don't even know if the second game has the same characters. I don't take for granted that Joel survives this season. Of course, don't tell me! Lol

[@tomc4311]

Great job again guys! The one thing that goes through my head after each episode is how the hell were they ever going to make this into a 2-3 hour movie!? I'm so glad that plan got scrapped because this series is absolutely beautiful.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Ohhh no thank goodness they made it into a show!!! A movie would have been way too rushed and the story would have suffered!

[@Hustlemandalorian]

That “Just like heaven “ rendition at the carousel was great! On KZbin the song says it’s a baby lullaby, so I guess I’m a big baby cuz I loved it lol

[@RockNRolla1212]

Yeah! I'm a big Cure guy, I immediately recognized it. Glad there are others.

[@ramon.rnt1992]

I'm just tired of repeating myself but...these actors are on a different caliber. The chemistry between Ellie and Rylie seems legit and gave me highschool nostalgia...to pull that off on a post apocalypse setting is incredible.

[@thomasjohansen8152]

I think this elaborated on Ellies character. This is her "origin story" kind of, like we saw Joel in ep.1. I think they can wrap it up in the 2 next. next episode is "we all know whats next", and the last one, well, they dont need to include all the action, so i think we are in route

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Absolutely - it was a great way to show the parallels and commonalities between Joel and Ellie, as well as establishing her character as her own person! Can't wait for the next two episodes!

[@samuraiwarriorsunite]

This is not my favorite episode, but you can't deny the acting ability of Bella and Storm. Their chemistry was pretty powerful.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Oh definitely! The actors in this were absolutely phenomenal and at the top of their game. They made us care so deeply about these two girls and their relationship, and it was a pleasure to watch. But yeah, it's also not quite our favorite either.

[@michellewang3270]

It's the holding hands for me

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

RIGHT?! It melted our hearts, they were so cute!

[@RogueJyn]

I'm excited for the David sequence! I was getting worried that they weren't gonna do the restaurant scene, and Joel better call Ellie baby girl otherwise I'm gonna be upset

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Ohhhhh nah we need the babygirl moment!! We will be pissed too if that doesn't happen! The David sequence honestly looks great so far, so we're excited!

[@sarahsav618]

Yeah I totally got what you were saying about the pacing. I would’ve loved if we had a few more sequences of Ellie caring for Joel. That being said I loved learning more about Ellie this way. I think this was a great way to create a break from the main storyline and raising the stakes for the David arc and also explaining Ellie’s reaction to the post St. Mary’s sequence. SPOILER ALERT FOR ANYONE WHO HASNT PLAYED THE GAME: Introducing Riley this way and not leaving out the romance really raises the stakes for the post hospital scenes. When Joel killed all the fireflies and taking away the cure, just doomed all the Ellie’s and Riley’s of this world. Ellie would’ve been able to save others like her and Riley in that mall. Giving them a chance at a normal life, a relationship and love. Something that she wasn’t able to. Riley’s death wouldn’t have been in vain. Which is why I think this episode was so important.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

That is very true, you made an excellent point. Perhaps with some minor adjustments to pacing, we could have both really delved into the relationship between Riley and Ellie, but also see the current events of Ellie taking care of Joel. Cannot wait for the David sequence, looks like they're implementing a really cool perspective to him and his people!

[@offgrid4360]

The last game I played was on a Sega Genesis. 🙃 I'm in it for the story. I have driven down the streets that this was filmed on . Should I be proud or afraid? 🤣🤣 Great reaction and follow up.😊

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

No way! You stay near where they shot this? I’ve heard the surrounding areas are beautiful as well. We can’t wait to go visit sometime 😃

[@tahir-dm5es]

Many times i have wondered the story from left behind was probably an directors cut. it says written by neill druckmann so it make sense why he split that backstory apart from the main story of the game it's interested to see how that holds on this charachters.

[@ferndog_tv1488]

The foreshadowing, 80s music means danger Great episode

[@BobLeach_DarkWolf]

Man. Your edits are excellent. You guys capture all the right stuff. New sub. :)

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Oh my goodness thank you so much!!! It means everything to us to read comments like these! We're so glad to have you with us!

[@underscorerm1678]

I saw that Neil Druckmann wrote this episode for television so the changes from the horde of infected to just one clearly have blessings from him. At first, I was also expecting a horde like they did in the game, I thought this was the second episode where we'll get like a LOT of them, but after a rewatch I now understand why it's reasonable for them to go that way. Riley was just stationed there to protect firefly's stash, she just took the chance, that being a functioning mall, for Ellie.. and Ellie at the same time has never been outside FEDRA school perimeters I guess. Them dealing with dozens of infected will somehow fall out of logic. In reality, teenage girls without proper training and enough gear won't survive that without being mangled to pieces. I'd like to think, and this is me convincing myself as an avid fan of the game, showing just one infected being able to damage two people in no time reminds us how dangerous these creatures are and how fast the spread of infection can happen. What really got me was the part where the Left Behind theme intensifies as Ellie held Joel's hand and he reciprocated, her desperation to prolong Joel's life. It reminded her of Riley's monologue " Whether it's two minutes or two days, we don't give that up, I don't want to give that up. " It's just beautiful and I think it was the core reason why they did a standalone episode of the DLC. This is why I really don't understand people saying that this was a "filler" episode , (esp non-gamers) they kept comparing it to ep 3, though there were few parallels like - we now understand her fascination - why she did that to the basement infected - she stabbed him in the same spot.. but aside from the fact that this was part of the game and is meant to be adapted - it is sad how people, including me, sometimes fail to assign personhood to Ellie, that she is her own person, not just a side character for Joel to protect. She has trauma and motivations too, and that she deserves a back story. She did know what loss is even before Sam and Henry. We sometimes just see Ellie as an accessory to Joel, because Joel was like the hero on a mission and we look up to heroes - when the story is mostly about her journey, w/ her being immune whilst everyone is dying and having to deal with that. It's giving *war flashbacks* from when TLOU II was released. About the pacing, I agree with you guys.. that's one of my fears too, knowing that the last 2 episodes were cut shorter when in fact they're the penultimate and ultimate episodes. I'm still hoping they'd still make a few tweaks, and add a few scenes that got scrapped if there's any but l'm afraid it's too late.. however, we'll see.. We just now have to trust the creators on this. Oh god, this was a hell of an essay and english is not first language so apologies guys!

[@mattmiltenberger145]

Am I the only one who freaked tf out when The Carousel music was playing a bells version of Just Like Heaven from The Cure???

[@JorichoCualing]

I'm pausing my ongoing activities for me to watch your reactions

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Oh my goodness thank youuu!!! We love seeing your comment pop up, we hope you enjoy!

[@monil2447]

I haven't watched the trailer for the next episode, I haven't even watched you watch it, because I want to be completely blind for what's next (but I let your YT video go all the way with the audio muted, you know for the algorithm). This episode was... cute. And the actresses were great. But we barely saw my hot zaddy. Can't wait to see him restored and epic AF. But I could deal with a sensitive and emotive version. This Zaddy is... ❤‍🔥😛❤‍🔥 Anyway, good luck with your move (that is SO MUCH WORK) 💗💗💗

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Ohhhh that's a good choice haha, honestly cannot wait to see how you're gonna feel about the next episode!! You're definitely in for a treat story-wise! Thank you sooo much for your continued support, you have no idea how much it means to us! Haha also definitely an absence of Zaddy lol😂😂😂

[@Luvluvvv]

Love your reaction❤❤❤ can’t wait to see the next episode and also your reaction too✨

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Thank you so much!!! Your support means the world to us!

[@joeokabayashi8669]

In my mind, Marlene wanted to separate Riley from Ellie to minimize Riley's influence on Ellie. For that reason, Marlene meant to transfer Riley to Atlanta.

[@martinmillar7137]

Was amazing and heartbreaking to see Ellie go from sass to changed person.. incredible performance.. Same with Joel grumpy to all out protector... Both of em will sweep awards.. and honestly every last side character to from the guard to the infected to kathleen..

[@spacepotato5524]

Can’t wait to watch. At orientation for my new job. Hopefully I have time to watch on break.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Haha aw thank youu! Hope you get to have a nice chill break. Let us know what you think of our reaction!

[@RonnieG]

It shows how she's loved lost & killed & also how she was bitten & knows she's different.

[@shep4life]

Beautiful flashback

[@OO7angelo]

Riley knocked it out of the park. Amazing performance 👏. Everyone did great. I just hope they can stick the landing. 2 to go. David is on the way.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Absolutely agreed, Storm was a perfect cast! Cannot wait for the last two episodes!

[@OO7angelo]

@The Media Knights yep, I've been saying the exact same things you did on this video. Only 9 episodes, and it feels like they wasted episodes 3 and 4 and now 7. While rushing the Joel and Ellie story. I'm not here for the side characters, even if they were well told in the episodes. They should've made 12 episodes then if they wanted to divert as much as they did. I'm just voicing my concerns. I really hope they wrap it up nicely, but I'm not sure they can. We'll have to wait and see.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Honestly, yeah, they could have added more episodes, or even just worked a little differently with this episode when it comes to the structure of the storytelling. Episode 3, we felt was spectacular and actually developed the themes they were trying to tell in this story, so we do feel it was absolutely necessary. However for some reason this episode did not hit quite as hard as Episode 3. Episode 3 had us wrecked and in tears - this felt like it slowed down the pacing of the entire story, but that's just how we feel, it's totally reasonable for people to think otherwise! Thus far we do feel they did an amazing job at telling this beloved story, so we are still hopeful (just a little more concerned now, is all haha)

[@ComandoPadentro]

IMO thi story (not the show, the STORY of TLOU) is not about the infected, nor the action sequences (which are important in the game, because you are playing, that's the point) in this medium, the drama is what's important. I applaud the show for concentrating in what's really important... the characters and the drama. THAT'S why the game was so lauded, not the gameplay, which was great, but nothing to write home about. Amazing reactions, I've been binging all your reactions today and I'm not gonna stop, but I needed to say this. That being said, you are my favorite reactiors on youtube today... keep it going!!

[@willynilly2545]

The writers did say about the show that it was a story about humans not infected. But I do agree they should've had a little more action/infected scenes.

[@offgrid4360]

Thanks!

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Thank you so much for your support and generosity. It means a lot to us❤️ It will be put to good use to better the quality of the channel 😄

[@GeraldWalling]

I know I am late to the party. Episodes 1 through 6 it has been nothing but praise how well it followed the game. I have not played the game, but here we are end of episode 7 and you complain how they left too much out. For someone that has not played the game you should have let it beknow throughout the 6 episodes instead of unloading in one episode how much was missing instead of leading us on with how good a job they are doing with the game. That said great reaction and loving The Last Of Us.

[@NormanLacombe]

are y'all caught up to the mandalorian?

[@NormanLacombe]

also on the video lol i agree this was a slow and not my fave episode, still cool seeing how ellie came to be

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Absolutely! We loved the performances and getting to see the backstory😃 also yes! We are caught up to the Mandalorian. Gonna upload reactions to Season 3 but right now we’re in the middle of a move so it mights be delayed for a little but it’s coming!

[@NormanLacombe]

@@OfficialMediaKnights woooohoooo

[@Trashcan-Man]

It still blows my mind that she was actually like what, 18 or 19 when this was filmed. She really looks 14 or 15

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Yes!! Which actually works out for longevity in her playing Ellie for the future!

[@Knightkrawla34]

I'm greatful for you guy's channel, not just another anti woke, anger mob click bait just for views channel, you guys are great.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Nah dude, for some reason so many people get so upset over a simple love story that happens to be gay, and call it an 'agenda'. Like...what?! We're huge supporters of representation and this show has been nailing it consistently! We are woke and proud over here!

[@mitchmatt6002]

I agree with you regarding concerns over whether the final two episodes will be rushed, given everything they have to cover in that time, and as much as I loved Bella's and Storm's performances and recognise the importance of having Ellie's backstory out there too, I feel that a more even split between Joel/Ellie and Ellie/Riley scenes would've been more satisfying - especially given how serious their current predicament is! Like, I really enjoyed playing Left Behind after the first game, but probably because I'm more conscious of how little of the show's first season we have left, I want to savour as much of this surrogate dad/daughter relationship as I can, while I can!

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Exactly, we get how you feel! There's just a bit of fear lingering that some of the greatest moments will be lost due to the time constraints, which I feel is a valid concern. Regardless, they've done an incredible job telling this story thus far so we're still excited and hopeful for the final two episodes!

[@Taewills]

I don’t understand this concern fully. The writers have enough written for 3 seasons. So what makes everyone think game 1 will be completely over before season two? It’s totally possible, with the way these episodes are paced, that a good portion of it could filter into the first few episodes of season two. Personally I’m watching regardless so I’m just not gonna worry about it.

[@sweetblossom146]

OMG!!! Ellie and Riley are so CUTE COUPLE.... 😭😭😭

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

YEEESSS!!! We LOVE these two, their relationship was handled so beautifully and tenderly!

[@DarkKnightBatman420]

Lmao get her Ellie.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Hahahah you know we be cheering!!!

[@DarkKnightBatman420]

Ah I hate spoilers. I couldn't help but post a potential but immediately took it down. (It probably made it to notifications.) Its removed but probably too late anyhow. Sorry.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Haha no dude you are totally fine! It's super hard sometimes to avoid all spoilers because we are just so passionate about the story - even we catch ourselves spoiling stuff when we edit 😂

[@bowi1332]

9/10

[@smdanny1]

80s music means trouble 😣

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Yes it does 😭

[@abcdefghi2749]

It would be a lot worse if they shortened it. Plus, people will complain regardless because it's another same sex relationship and the trolls are already out in droves, with their small-minded sharpened pitchforks, in order to review bomb the episode.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

That's a very important point and distinguishment that has to be made. It makes us genuinely happy that another same sex relationship was handled so beautifully and respectfully, which was fantastic to see! That being said we see a lot of people taking simple criticisms and nitpicks and weaponizing them to push their homophobic/sexist rhetoric and, as you said, review bomb episodes or call simple moments of representation 'agendas'. Like how does that even make sense?! That being said, it would have been cool if they had stuck to the DLC that this episode was based on, and they showed the back and forth of flashbacks to present, where Ellie goes through literal hell to save Joel as we get to delve into her past and understand who she is better, and why she suffers the way she suffers. It would have been amazing to see how fierce, strong and tenacious she is as she forages and fights her way through to find what she needs for Joel - because that's what we got in the DLC.

[@taylorw9678]

Deffo appreciate the criticism--I've been sort of worried about the pacing the last few episodes and I'm wondering if the non-game player actually feels that there's as strong of a connection between Joel and Ellie that the game players felt by the end of the first game...

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

From what we’ve seen from the non gamers perspective they don’t really know what they’re missing out so they’re good. When you don’t know the full scale of what could’ve happened then I guess our criticism doesn’t really resonate. The emotional connection is there but of course, we don’t get to spend 20+ hours seeing their relationship grow. The actors are doing amazing but I think at least in this case an extra episode should’ve been added despite Ep 1 and 3 already being long. I think 1 more episode with just Joel and Ellie Roaming around and growing as characters would’ve solidified this even more.

[@JimmiHoevring]

Episode 8 is 50 minutes and episode 9 is 46 minutes long... So no, they will not be longer than previous episodes...

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Offf yeah. We're crossing our fingers, hopefully they stick the landing.

[@anegyptianplays]

I actually agree with you guys on everything you said as far as a show goes it is great i was disappointed that they cut some iconic gameplay scenes in part 1 there is one also iconic in the next episode i hope they don’t cut it off because it is one of my favorite gameplay sequences of the franchise hopefully they listen to the fans for season 2 because part got a lot of action sequences also iconic

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Yeah for sure! We feel like there could have been a nice balance between some of the iconic emotional AND the action sequences! Lots to look forward to regardless, the show is fantastic!

[@wendybijellberg]

i agree with you guys but what's interesting it that most of us who are game fans have the same criticisms but i've seen people who haven't played the game love this episode and the insight it gave into ellie and her story. so, while i do think that cutting almost all of the action sequences and making this episode a bit slow is a valid criticism for the show in general (as in compared to the game or not), i also feel like it's coming mostly from people who have played the game so idk? lmao at the end of the day the creators did say that hbo wanted this to be a drama show not a 'zombie' show, so i guess we need to lower our expectations in that front?? HOWEVER from what i've seen from the trailers and stuff the last two episodes hopefully will deliver all that action and violence (if they don't then i am gonna be actually disappointed but we shall wait!) anyways sorry long comment, i loved storm reid as riley and i was giggling throughout the whole episode at ellie being so in love and awkward and then SOBBING at the ending and how it connected to ellie not wanting to lose joel (also the fact that they added him being conscious and asking her to leave??? AND HIM SQUEEZING HER HAND????? RUDE)

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Absolutely agreed and you're so right on that - the expectations for more action do come from the people who've played the games (we're included in that) so lowering our expectations on that might do us some good for the final episodes. Also this episode just tugged on our heartstrings for sure - the relationship between Ellie and Riley felt so tender and real!! Also Joel gripping back her hand just destroyed usss 😭😭😭

[@bigj5880]

Pretty much agree with you guys, on a standalone episode this was a really good episode, but for the overall story that they were trying to tell eh I didn't need a whole episode to devote to a flashback I could have had an episode of moving forward and two minutes here 2 minutes there of flashbacks so we can get the idea of what happened, we know Ellie gets bit didn't need 40 minutes of it to build to that

[@Anonymous-up7zg]

you do know it’s based off the dlc right .. and it was very needed so we could learn more about ellie’s background 💀

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

We see everyone's point on this one - the criticism from BIG J matches our views and we do believe there is validity in wanting a similar kind of back and forth between flashbacks and present times. But there has also been feedback that many have not really been craving more action as they love the emotional aspect of the show. There is always a way to strike a balance between action and emotional, however it seems like this was the story they chose to tell. So it looks like we have to wait and see how the last two episodes will play out!

[@Babylauncher3000]

This comment makes me think you don't know what this series story is actually about yet.

[@faresannaba9718]

❤‍🔥❤‍🔥❤‍🔥❤‍🔥❤‍🔥❤‍🔥💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽🍄🍄🍄🍄🍄

[@DylanZombie]

@The Media Knights if I was in TLOU this would be my scene: “I’m a firefly a new guy to be exact we have to move base because our original got taken over by infected so have to move all our soldiers, weapons and equipment to the new base it was starting to become dusk and started to rain heavily so we need to find a base quickly before the infected come out. The convoy snaked its way down the streets very tall plant covered skeletons of once skyscrapers still stood strong the wind moaned through them making a haunting sound. Then suddenly the ground started to tremble and a gigantic Moler exploded out of the ground sending tears and dirt everywhere everyone started shooting to put the beast down but the bullets had no affect against the thick armour of the Moler. We all ran around the corner with the beast in tow the Moler slid around the corner throwing tears and mud out and we went through the door of the nearest tall skyscraper the Moler smashed through but we made it up the stairs and watched the Moler smash around the foyer looking for us. It was a very long walk but we made it near the top “what was that” sametime said “that was a Moler I’ve never seen one that big before” I said. Then the skyscraper started to tremble and shake “he’s weakened the base hold onto something!” I yelled the skyscraper started to tip towards the other skyscraper and tears, tables, chairs and other things were starting to slide and bounce. Where I was the tears and other things were coming out of the other rooms, bouncing down the hall and then disappearing over into the hallway near me. The falling skyscraper slammed into the side of the other skyscraper smashing in the side like a videocamera and sending down a shower of tears and dust. When everything was still and stable we all met back up and crossed over into the standing tall skyscraper in the heavy rain. We found a winding emergency staircase and started to walk down It then there was a loud noise followed by a whooshing sound and a large torrent of water tore down the stairs picking us up and carrying us down the stairs with flurry of arms and legs the water reached the bottom and hit the partially flooded foyer with a airy Mammothdew of water launching us out. We found a place and fell asleep. In the morning we returned to our vehicles and continued our journey to find a new base.

[@MidnightWolfSDJ]

See it is episodes like this one that makes me nervous about a 9 episode show trying to cram in like 15 hours of material from a relatively long game. They were doing well all the way up to this point but there are 2 big things coming up that I think will be hard to fit in 2 episodes. My unbiased opinion of the Bill and Frank story is even though it was well written as a standalone story, it cuts about 40-50 min into a story that could have been more flushed out and received more scenes that actually propelled the plot forward. Instead we took a major sidestep to cover two characters (one we haven’t officially met before and one we have for a brief moment in this large story). This Left Behind episode isn’t quite as bad as this was added to the game’s story that does enhance the game experience as we get to see what is talked about throughout the conversations of the game. That being said these opinions do come from a gamer lens perspective. They have proven episode after episode that they can really make a solid TLOU adaptation up to this point. I just hope the last 2 episodes don’t disappoint. **Disclaimer: Sensitive Topic ahead** For those who might want to know my biased opinion of the Bill and Frank episode. I can’t help but see the continued Naughty Dog agenda being fully forced into such a popular story arc. I can’t help but think that a Twitter post might be the cause of the agenda being more obvious. (Someone posted homophobic stuff about the Last of Us and Neil Druckmann responded quite harshly about it. It was at this point that we see ND be way less subtle about certain things moving past this point in time). In the game before the Left Behind dlc was added it was free from any kind of sexual content. You don’t even see 2 people kiss or show any kind of romantic intimacy at all. This is actually one of my major highlights of the first game is that it shows that sex doesn’t always have to be the way you draw people in. Sure there were references to romantic stuff (in the background) but nothing was shown. This actually enhances the Father Daughter relationship between Joel and Ellie in my opinion. Instead of focusing on some stupid love triangle or Romeo and Juliet (or in Bill and Frank’s situation, Romeo and Julien), we see a father’s love for his child. To me that is such a unique concept in American culture. It is rare to see this sort of relationship be the driving force of a story. To add romance to this in any way shape or form (heterosexual or homosexual) was completely unnecessary and this is how I have come to the conclusion that the agenda is very real and unsettling. That being said I can always turn the show off and stop watching; however, almost everything before and after the Bill and Frank story, has been close to perfect up to this point for a Last of Us adaptation and cannot complain about that one bit. In the end I don’t even view that episode as part of it so I can just ignore it as part of it and if I ever rewatch I will watch the parts of that episode that matter and then skip like 90% of that episode. I can at least enjoy 97% of the Left Behind episode and view this as more of a Best friend type thing and skip one scene out of the whole thing. That being said I don’t say this to troll. I don’t say this to stir up controversy. I just want people to know that all people who disagree with a certain lifestyle aren’t always bad. That we can still be super reasonable. I don’t even mind having friends or family that are involved in this lifestyle. Just like I don’t need to know about someone’s heterosexual lifestyle, I don’t need to know about their homosexual lifestyle. Once again I’m bringing this up not for problems, just so people know that we can be reasonable too.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

There's a few points we'd like to address here! The first one being that it's a valid concern to see if they can fit everything in that needs to be addressed from the game. The game itself is a blueprint, but not set in stone. Shows and films are an entirely different medium, so certain changes were expected to be made. That being said, Episode 3 was absolutely necessary as it further developed the themes they were introducing for the show, such as 'surviving isn't living', but more importantly love - and the beautiful but also horrendous things it can make you do. Adding to that, the love story between Bill and Frank was changed and handled so beautifully, we feel that it was actually one of the best and most important episodes to fully build the groundwork of the themes the rest of the show was going to be layered upon. Now for your second point: I see you referred to ND's 'agenda'. Druckmann's harsh response to a homophobic comment is what is needed sometimes. Introducing simple representation whilst furthering the storyline is not pushing an agenda. LGBTQIA+ people do just... exist - in our world and in the game. Viewing it as an agenda comes from, mainly a heteronormative view on life, that being straight is 'normal' and everything else is a deviation from it, when that's not how it is in real life. Showing that LGBTQIA+ people merely existing is not pushing an agenda, but merely an acknowledgement and sign of basic respect that's been denied for way too long. We are strong supporters of the LGBTQIA+ communtiy here and therefore have seen the mindless vitriol and hatred people have been feeling brave enough to spew, making our community of the LGBTQIA+ uncomfortable. We will not be part of those who respond to that with apathy, nor will we let it slide or ignore it. Our space is a safe space for the LGBTQIA+ community - not homophobes. That being said, the love stories that have been presented were shown from a romantic lens, not a sexual one. Two people in love sharing a kiss is an innocent marker of showing affection, and is in no way gratuitous in this show. Though you do have a point in the sense that sex has been used, or perhaps bastardized is a better term, to make something more marketable. Now, we'd like to ask you to consider how many times heterosexual sex has been mass marketed this way and more importantly, to whom? WHO consumes that kind of media, as a majority? I'd like to encourage you to look this up - Jennifer's Body and its failed marketing would be an excellent place to start. Throughout years we've constantly been bombarded by heterosexual sex to the point that people think that being straight is the norm. So I wonder why heterosexual love being shown is unnecessary, yet homosexual love is deemed an agenda? This is a symptom of an inherent brainwashing of the populus, creating this odd oxymoron to maintain the status quo - this applies to sexuality, gender and race as well. Druckmann has always strived to break the status quo, which we see in his creation of Ellie. Women in games have been hypersexualized and forced to be useless and defenseless to the point of impotence, whilst also having been written as byproducts to further along a man's storyline for too long (e.g. 'fridging') - Ellie feels real. She has real flaws, but is also competent. She has hopes, dreams and also has her moments of incompetence because she is a child. This makes her a fully fleshed human being. Her relationship with Riley and her sexuality was never hidden - it was expanded upon in the DLC, and it was not sex that was being marketed, because again, she is a literal child and it is just so fascinating (even disturbing to apply that lens to a literal child, but that is a different topic) to see love misconstrued as sex. The two are not mutually exclusive, but you also don't need one for the other to exist. Having established this, we can now move on to why Episode 3 and 'Left Behind' were absolutely going to be told because Druckmann himself views homosexual love as normal - which it is. Us having issues with the pacing of Left Behind has absolutely nothing to do with the LGBTQIA+ representation, and will not be used as a breeding ground for people to insert their homophobic views. Having said that, whilst we disagree with you quite substantially on some things, your comment was indeed the more reasonable one we've seen thus far and is why we keep it up. There is room for growth and discussion here. I see you used the term 'Lifestyle'. Veganism is a lifestyle - the term itself has the connotation of choice. As a Bisexual woman myself and the homophobia I have endured over time due to this, whether it was overt or passive aggressive, I can tell you many would choose not to suffer and be ostracised for something they cannot control. Being LGBTQIA+ is not a lifestyle because it is not a choice in the same way you cannot change your attraction to the opposite sex. If there are those around you that do belong to the LGBTQIA+ community, I'd highly encourage for you to become a safe space to them as well. It takes nothing away from you and those that feel as you do, to accept that we exist - we are not pushing an agenda, we simply would like to not experience erasure or violence any longer. So whilst yes, you are reasonable, there is still discrimination there, whether it's overt or subtle. I truly do hope you take these words in, and that perhaps over time you view LGBTQIA+ people as, well, people, instead of aggressors that are insidiously trying to take something away from straight people. There is nothing to be lost, and all the more to gain.

[@divinerouge5183]

@The Media Knights Thank you for this, you could have brushed past this comment but instead you gave a thoughtful and beautiful response. Those of us in the Queer community love to see the love and support. ❤️

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

THANK YOU!!!❤️❤️❤️ It took us some time to organize our thoughts and formulate them properly. It's comments like yours, @Divine Rouge, that shows exactly why it cannot just be left ignored. We love you, the Queer communtiy and stand with you, always ❤️

[@MidnightWolfSDJ]

@@OfficialMediaKnights First of all, I just want to say thank you for being understanding and willing to have a civil discussion about a very sensitive topic. It is very rare for people to engage in disagreements on any platform and the purpose I hope to show with my comments and responses are to show that it is possible to have these sort of discussions without getting mad at each other. I do have an issue with homosexuality as a whole but I have no issues with the individuals who are. Unfortunately, many others who are anti homosexuality are internet trolls whose goal is to stir up trouble. I can assure you that is not my intention. It is certainly not my intention of making anyone on here feel unwelcome as this is a public place for discussion and entertainment. I hope I do not come across as homophobic as I do not fear homosexuality and certainly don’t judge people who are homosexuals. That all being said I would like to respectfully respond to some of what you said in regards to your comment. In regards to the agenda point. I never said that all LGBTQ… people are involved in an agenda. I just think Naughty Dog has an agenda, one that has been more obvious ever since the Twitter post incident. I also use the term agenda lightly. I don’t think ND or any other company are sitting in a corner thinking to themselves, “how can we stir up controversy???”. I just know they are using their platform (and they have every right to do so) to spread their ideologies about certain topics. Once again there is nothing wrong with that but simply just stating a reason not to fully enjoy ND’s stuff. Doesn’t mean I don’t enjoy them. Just means I have a hang up about them. Nothing wrong with that just means we all think differently. I have a problem with cuss words but doesn’t mean I go around telling people they are wrong and should stop. I have learned to live with it. I also think there is a common misconception that people with my views hate people of that lifestyle. This is simply not the case. Perhaps maybe some do. But others don’t. I love each and every person I come in contact with. Some I may like more than others but those opinions are reserved for what their character is. Not based on who they are and/or life decisions. There are things about other people I don’t like but that is okay because we are all different. Being different is not a bad thing. Also there are things about me I am sure others don’t like as well. As far as the unnecessary sex part of my comment. There is a notion I’m sure you and most people have heard called, “Sex sells”. Meaning people throw in romantic scenes or scantily clothed people in mediums that don’t make since or have no business being there to begin with. This is why I praise The Last of Us Part 1 pre-dlc because it shows that sex doesn’t always have to sell. As far as whether or not it is heterosexual or homosexual, I simply don’t care, it was nice that a successful story existed without any form of romance since romance and “sex” are many stories. By your comment we have common ground in that woman have been overly sexualized in our society. This is why it was refreshing not having any of that in Part 1. I never played part 2 but I did see leaks and IMDb parental guidance page and apparently there is nudity in part 2. I think that is unnecessary. As far as episode 3. It was a story that would have been more necessary had Joel and Ellie actually interacted with one or both Bill and Frank. The fact they were dead made that story feel pointless for the over-arching story. The idea of “surviving isn’t necessarily living” is I guess in that episode, yes; however, because it didn’t really directly impact the main characters directly, makes it pointless for them for them to bring up. Having Joel and Ellie both see the happiness and “living” Bill and Frank had, would have connected better and more impactful, rather than the letter. I don’t know if you remember but a few episodes ago I posted my review of that episode. I praise it as it’s own standalone story and would not be opposed if it was its own thing that took place within the Last of Us universe. But as a Joel and Ellie Last of Us adventure it falls flat in my opinion. Really the only issue I had with your entire comment is the hang-up on the word lifestyle. I don’t understand why that one word gets people hung up. (I’ve had a similar discussion before and I used lifestyle and they too were not happy with it.) when I look up the word “lifestyle” here is what I get: “the way in which a person or group lives.” No where in that definition do I see the words choice or implied choice. Now I do personally view sexuality as a choice. But it is a choice based off of your own personal context. If you are raised around heterosexual people, often times you will most likely be heterosexual. If you are raised around homosexual people, chances are you will most likely be homosexual. This isn’t always the case but to me that implies that the individual has a choice to go against what is the norm in their context. But going back to the word Lifestyle. I ask you not get so hung up on that word as it is a word I would prefer to say in over queer community. I was raised where calling someone queer always was bad. It was never good to call someone a queer as it is often used to make fun of someone. Saying Lifestyle is easier for me to say as I am not using it to determine whether or not sexuality is a choice or not. In conclusion to this response but not necessarily this discussion as I am truly enjoying this discussion, I want to address anyone who might be listening (or in this case reading our conversation). If you are a member of LGBTQ… please do not be offended or take what I say as belittling your existence. You are a precious creation formed by the hands of an incredible God. Perhaps a little misguided (from my perspective) but we are all misguided in some way shape or form. “We all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.” Even though I view homosexuality as a sin, as stated in the Bible, people tend to gloss over the other sin that is surrounded by homosexuality. There are other sins in that list that I am surely guilty of and need repentance on a daily basis as well. I am just as guilty. Sin is sin. As far as me being a hypocrite. Absolutely. But I am a hypocrite that is trying to do better each and every day. I don’t expect this to change your life. I can only hope it does. Because there is a savior who does care deeply for all of us. Even those who don’t believe. Jesus hates the sin but he loves the sinner. “For God so loved the WORLD, that He gave His only Son, that WHOSOEVER BELIEVES in Him will NOT PERISH. But have EVERLASTING LIFE” - John 3:16. So many people always use that verse to say that God only loves His children. It clearly says that He loves every one of us. Even non-believers. The only part that is “exclusive” is the whosoever believes part. Those who believe will receive eternal life. It really is quite that simple. Unfortunately, those who don’t believe, if they die before believing, will spend an eternity in hell. This is the absence of the presence of God Himself. This is the eternal death that is spoken of. Heaven is so great because the Presence of God is on full display there. There is no concealment of this, like on Earth. There are times on Earth that feel heavenly. There are also times when it feels hellish. God is always there but sometimes He pulls back the feeling of His presence for many different reasons. This is why we as Christians want people to know this. I don’t want people to go to Hell. I want them to live with me and God in paradise for all eternity. Even just 1 sin is enough to condemn every single one of us to hell. This is why we need Jesus in our hearts.

[@MidnightWolfSDJ]

Lol I really need to proof read my messages (let me know if I need to clarify something that has poor grammar/spelling.)

[@Hustlemandalorian]

So I was weak and couldn’t wait and watched the game story on KZbin, including game 2 and regarding game 2………… I. AM. DEVASTATED. 💔🥺😢😭🤢🤮😢😭💦🌊 I have one question for Neil Druckman……..”Who hurt you?”

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

HAHAHAHAHAHHA NOOOOO! Listen - it took us a while to put our emotions aside and focus on the story that was being told. But yes, we are traumatized, and not ready to see it happen on screen 😭😭😭 Not sure who hurt Druckmann, but we know he hurt us 😂

[@Hustlemandalorian]

@@OfficialMediaKnights Game 2 spoilery- I’m too scared someone who doesn’t know might click on this message by accident so I’ll try being vague. I’m glad I went ahead and watched it so that I’ll have until season 2 comes out to prepare myself although that still probably won’t be enough time. But yeah, I know a certain person isn’t innocent but I like them so much and especially seeing it done in live action to an actor person who is one of my favs is gonna be rage inducing but I shall try to stay cool lol. I know that they tried to make us see it from the other person’s point of view but it didn’t work on me, cuz there was a nicer way for this person to have done it instead of tiger woodsing it over and over 😭. Not ready to see it. Ngl when that happened I was totally going to the dark side a bit 😂.

[@JasperAyeee]

i agree with the criticism of the show. what the producers and showrunners have said, essentially, is that we need to sell the audience on the setting, and the characters, and the drama of TLOU. clearly, it would be a bridge too far to try and recreate the combat mechanics from the game SO let's remove that from the equation entirely. and ultimately, for the audience, it becomes a conversation of: there's only 3/2/1 episodes left--how are they going to do this in a satisfying way?.. we shall see.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Precisely. There's always a way to find a balance between a character piece and honoring some of the iconic action sequences. That being said, the show overall is still fantastic and we are looking forward to the next episodes!

[@pavelmyshov464]

I actually do agree, I was thinking the same, that for a zombie movie there are too few zombies/infected out there. Don't get me wrong, those infected that were presented to us are great and done flawlessly. And yes, even in the game exactly the people are the most dangerous enemies. However in the game nevertheless the world belonged to infected. In the series it feels that infected are rare and its mostly emptiness & bad people. I'd also like to see more of the beautiful desolated world, cities drowning in greenery. That being said, the show is absolutely amazing, all of it: actors, decorations, love to detail and dedication to the original story. I probably like the actors acting even more than in the game, all of them are just crushing it. So far 9/10

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Yess absolutely agreed! The show is still sensational, we still love it - the story, the characters, actors, the cinematography; this is the only gripe we really have. There were so many moments with the infected that were so incredible and iconic that also showed us what Joel is like and his growing protectiveness over Ellie, it would have served the purpose of both adding higher stakes and tension, whilst building their character arcs. But alas, this is what we got thus far. Also, definitely agree with you on the infected, overgrown post apocalyptic world's scenery - like the collapsed buildings, nature taking over again etc. Hopefully we'll see more in the last two episodes!

[@TARS20]

There is a scene that I think wasn't a good decision: the shown of the infected. To show that earlier means a lot of viewers sort of can't enjoy the emotional scenes after due to anxiety of anticipation for when the infected would show up. So the scenes after the infected waking up don't really deliver emotional impact as much...But on the other hand, this show doesn't rely on jump scares (which I hate about most horror shows), to suddenly show an infected out of nowhere attacking them is kinda lame and sort of like cheap horror movie...so it's a dilemma. But overall, it's a good episode. Not my favourite, but good otherwise. This show is very smart in adding subtle dialogues of supporting characters that mirror Joel & Ellie's relationship. Like what Riley said to Ellie "you don't know how it feels like to have a family" Riley's sense of belonging with Fireflies because they chose her. Now reflected on Ellie, she now know how it feels like to have a family, and her sense in belonging with Joel because he chose her made her doesn't want to lose him. And then we had one dialogue from last episode which will mirror the future episode.. As for the infected, I think they did a good job of not overexposing them. They are a threat which needs to feel like a threat, because they're very dangerous and not shown very often everytime they were shown, there is a tension. The Walking Dead showed too much of the zombies that they were no longer a threat and rather an inconvenience. In a realistic setting, the infected are like crazed people that wouldn't stop at body shots...the stake is very high if you encounter them too often, you'd get exhausted eventually and your luck would run out. Average people wouldn't even be able to shoot at crazy moving target in the head accurately (as Joel said "it happened a lot more often than you think"), they lost Tess from just 2 clickers, if there were more, odds are the show ends at ep 2. Hence why they don't show too many of them. In ep 6, you really can't fit them in much... it's winter, and infected are very rare in rural areas, odds are the ones wandered around hid due to freezing temp outside...and Jackson people would've cleaned up the surrounding areas including the dam to eliminate potential threat (hence why they were out on a patrol or something). And the Fireflies would've cleaned up the city where they have a base at to eliminate potential threat, just like how FEDRA handled their city.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Love this comment!! It always makes us superhappy to see your comments pop up haha, thank you for your continued support! Definitely agree that it was a smart choice not to overexpose the infected, as it does help build anticipation and anxiety. That being said, as gamers and huge fans of the games, we know for a fact that they can show the infected more frequently and still make the threat feel so real. Obviously it's a different medium so they would have had to make different choices in order for it to work for a TV show. We truly love that they took the time to flesh out these beautiful characters that we adore so deeply, and their relationships to each other. That being said, it is a little bit saddening to see some of the most iconic sequences with infected were cut like this - obviously we know not all can be kept, but to just have a couple would have been great, especially considering that those action sequences could have served the purpose of building more into the characterization of those involved. Regardless we adore this show overall and cannot wait for the final two episodes coming up!

[@arislanis]

I enjoyed this episode overall - the settings, the dialogue, and the performance. However, I would have loved to see a longer cut of the battle with the infected or at least two or three of them. The action scene felt a bit too quick, unfocused, and similar to other episodes: similar in a way that characters are not aware of being stabbed or bitten until we see the reaction of someone.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Yeah, honestly, the attack of the infected on Riley and Ellie could have been a bit more - they still have two episodes to turn things around, so here's hoping!

[@vague_awake_1457]

I'll tell ya what's happening , it's all HBO that didn't take the risk and give a little more to this show , my opinion they did an amazing job, I've played this game when it first came out and played it constantly, and I'll tell ya this the show is better , in saying this the last of us will get it all for next season because of the ratings and this time you will see a lot of infected In my opinion when it comes to the screw ups of this is number 1 .. Kathleen , I love the actress but the lengths she went to avenge her brother was very poor writing,some didn't even make sense 2 it's not big but I thought the " I'm not her you know " scene was actually better in the show but the lead up to it was weak , her running away showed that she was deeply hurt Other than that everything else is A1 , Bella Ramsay is amazing her acting and facial expressions are out of this world, both her and Pedro are going to win it all , just with the infected you gotta remember they don't do to well in the cold temperatures

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

I agree! HBO played it safe with the budget. After episode 8 however I think they're on track to stick the landing. Hopefully season 2 will receive more love in the budget department. Can't wait!

[@idontwantyourcookiesc3276]

ima trailer watching hater, i know it already happened but still

[@Sawyer1982OAC]

I think this episode suffered from the "one and done" problem. Had they known the show would be renewed for a second season this would probably be shortened to fit into half an episode. That being said, I guess the next season will be more even paced and fleshed out (here´s a hope they´d split it into two parts)

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

That's an interesting point, it does feel a little like that, unlike Episode 3 which really also fleshed out the difference between surviving and living, which was then compounded by the way people live in Jackson. We're still very hopeful of how they'll handle the next season as the show as a whole really is incredible!

[@maramkura]

why would anyone want more joel?? who cares what happens to him. weird. it is the best episode because there is the least joel in it :D

[@Thealternate2022]

You opinion sucks!! 😀

[@kjek1]

Let’s call a spade a spade, they needed to squeeze this episode in so they could let Ellie have that moment that confirms she’s a lesbian. And they did so at the expense of the overall story which did feel a bit rushed at the end. There’s a reason left behind was DLC, it wasn’t crucial to the main story.

[@shep4life]

I disagree with you

[@peace4myheart]

I agree with you on the pacing. I didn't like how it started, but I do like how it ended, and yes, it is one of the weaker episode, minus the ending. The ending made me cried when the DLC did not. However, I like the DLC better in execution in running both present mall and past mall in parallel. I like how hard Ellie fought to find a way to save Joel, searching for medical supplies while fighting through infected and raiders. I also agree with you that the DLC made a stronger impact on me when I first played it. And in this show, episode 3 was so good that it overshadows Ellie and Riley relationship and made a lesser impact on me as a viewer. For me, episode 1,3,5 are top tier. Episode 2,4,6 are mid tier. Episode 7 is low tier. Still, the worst of the best is still great.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

I like the rating and I think it is accurate. I understand they wanted to go the “more emotional route” but for me that just sounds like a very convenient way of saving a few million dollars. Because like you said. The way that Ellie truly fights for Joel is not really reflected in this episode. She goes through hell to get him the supplies. Hopefully all the money they’ve saved by not adding these will be worth while in the next 2

[@Peak_there_is]

Ehhhh storm Reid is so mid as an actress