'The Last of Us' Review: In the Season 2 Premiere, the Monsters Are Already Here - Spoilers
Briefly

In the premiere of 'The Last of Us' Season 2, titled "Future Days," the evolving dangers, both external and internal, are underscored. Joel's simple explanations to his nephew contrast sharply with the sinister realities surrounding them. As the town faces new, evolving threats like Stalkers and a vengeful Abby, the complexity of human relationships and truths among characters is explored, particularly Joel's deceit regarding past events. This sets a tone of ambiguity and tension for the season, with the characters navigating their fears and uncertainties in a world full of monsters.
"What's that?" Joel asks, and Benji replies, "The fence!" "And what's inside?" "People!" "And what's outside?" "Monsters." See? Simple. The fence protects the people because the fence keeps monsters out.
Throughout the Season 2 premiere, "Future Days," writer and director Craig Mazin repeatedly makes clear that the monsters are moving in, if not already here. There's the stretching, straining tendrils of malevolent fungus living in the town's pipes.
Episode 1 begins by repeating the very last scene of Season 1. Five years ago, Ellie is suspicious of Joel's story about what happened in Salt Lake City. Were there really other immune people who could help the scientists find a cure?
Joel is floating between monster and man. His story is a lie, and he lies again when Ellie asks him to swear to its veracity. Even when he does, she remains dubious.
Read at IndieWire
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