This was a hard one to watch. If you are struggling to watch this show please know that is normal. I hope my commentary can bring you some comfort. Please see the description for any resources you may need. Endure and survive.❤ If there is something missing from this episode that you'd like me to comment on let me know and I'll try and answer it in the comments or in next week's video. Thank you for being here! 👇
thats was a part of the episode that i though interesting henry looked up at the window and saw joel his eyes was in the middle of a orange light like a mask of a super hero
You skipped over the part where Perry was talking to Kathleen in her old room and he basically said that her brother was well loved, but nothing changed while he was in charge. She and her ruthlessness is what got things to change (even if not for the better). Was wondering what your thoughts were on that, and if that served as the foundation to everyones loyalty despite some of her more questionable choices.
@@Dilligff This is a great question! When someone or a group of people have been traumatised for so long, reaching for violence and ruthlessness makes sense. What did the KC freedom movement get from Kathleen that they couldn't get from her brother? Why follow her? I would love more of a analysis of her character!
Fun Fact: Perry (the guy with the beard) was the voice actor for Tommy in the game. They actually do this a lot throughout the series. The voice actor for Joel shows up in episode 8 and the voice actors for Ellie and Abby (from part 2) show up in episode 9. Sadly, the voice actress for Tess passed away recently.
Ellie becomes more and more fine with violence while Joel is becoming more "tired" of it. Their emotions moving in opposite directions is quite interesting, and setting up their characters in part 2. Love TLOU so much!
"If you turn into a monster, is it still you inside?" is such a good line. Sam already knows he's been bitten, but turning into a monster isn't the part that scares him. What scares him is the fact that the fungus will most likely take control of his brain, turning him to a mindless creature with no control over his own body. It hits especially hard considering that as a deaf kid, loss of autonomy is something he's all too familiar with.
This comment has split the community. Many believe Yes you are aware but unable to do anything. Many others think that the Fungi is the Only thing present and your 'True Self' is utterly gone. It is heart breaking.
If the Cordyceps that takes over humans works the same as that which controls ants, then it actually never enters the brain. It takes over every other tissue in the body and sends signals to muscles directly, but the brain remains unaffected. The infected are probably fully conscious and aware of everything their body is doing but are helpless to stop themselves from killing everyone they love
@@davidedwards1705 the show runners discussed this exact point, and gave a definitive answer, from a 'lore' point of view. Their discussion is available on the accompanying podcast for episode 5. Thought I'd pass it along.
@@davidedwards1705 The fungus doesn't 'think' for you. If you are locked in, self-aware but unable to stop your body from behaving in a certain way, then what is controlling that behaviour and how is it stopping you from exerting your own control? It only makes sense if the fungus has consumed the 'individual' and the body is running on basic brain-stem level, biochemical drives - run, breathe, climb, feed etc. edited to add, it's also important to remember that this is fiction. Cordyceps infects insects, not mammals and certainly not humans with our huge brains and antibody-mediated immune systems. It's pure fantasy. The science is superficially plausible, but it does not withstand any scrutiny.
Joel protecting Ellie from afar and panicking when he thought she was in danger was one of my favorite parts of this episode. That and his immediate response after Sam is shot was to ask her if she was ok and step forward to go comfort her. The bond that they’re continuing to develop is so amazing to watch, even in such tragic circumstances.
After Ellie got out of the vehicle to escape the contortionist/gymnast/ child clicker, she noticed Henry and Sam being attacked and look up at Joel and they both knew right away that she was going help them while he provided cover. Ellie and Joel's connection is indeed strong. By the way, Joel is an excellent marksman.
@@robincraft4682 Yeah, Joel and Tommy probably grew up plinking guns in Texas. Joel wasn't military like Tommy, but he had the same instincts by flanking the shooter. He also finished Bryan with one cut along the ribs instead of against the ribs, which tells us he is probably a good hunter as well.
@@robincraft4682 having grown up on the farm, hunting was a big part of my life when I was young. I love that they show Joel missing some shots as well, since even the best Marksman doesn't make every single shot. Particularly when he was shooting at the truck they showed him missing several times which seems very realistic shooting at a moving Target from long distance
Cute thing: the 9 year old gymnast (Skye Newton) was a bit scared of the big Infected (Adam Basil), so they took pains to introduce them, show Adam with his head piece off, etc. I found that story endearing.
I'm glad you pointed out the way Henry translates for Sam and allows him to be part of the conversation rather than speaking for him and denying him autonomy. I think that was a really important detail for them to include. I also appreciate that they cast an actual Deaf kid as Sam, apparently they only had 5 people sign up to audition because they were specifically looking for a Deaf Black boy ages 8-11. It's always nice to see good disability representation
This was one of my favourite parts of the episode, and why I'm glad they made this change from the game. Disabled people are not often represented well in media, and therefore people consume media and their understanding of disability and how to react to and engage with disabled people is learned from these weak representations. Either the depiction of says disability is inaccurate (and usually cast by an actor who has no lived experience with it) or we learn to infantilize or disregard disabled people (at least as an autistic person this is my experience in viewing media with disabled characters, it's something I think about pretty often). The simple act of casting a deaf actor and giving his character that autonomy in the story is so great in a show as big as TLOU. Representation matters.
What was interesting about this episode was that it gave some insight into what it is like to look after a child in the middle of a warzone. Millions of children go through this each year.
I think the reason Ellie leaves the grave first is because of her guilt. Joel previously told Sam that children have it easier because they have no responsibility to others. But Ellie has taken responsibility for Sam here and thinks she has failed. Ellie really has a mission now. Indirectly get through her feelings of guilt. She wants her blood to work. Before that, she was someone who had no control over anything. Others have determined where she grows up and where she has to go now. "I didn't ask for this" were her words in episode 2. Now that has changed. Now conviction plays a role and she takes control. She wants to save the world so that there are no more Sam's. And while Joel gradually finds his humanity again and lets people into his life again, Ellie loses a little more of herself and she takes the lead here in the end.
While watching this episode a second time ,I thought to myself “wonder if Sam deliberately turned his back to Ellie when she fell asleep.?” Knowing he could not hear her he wouldn’t attack her when if he turned but would’ve if he turned while she was in sight
How come the granny gained mobility in the first episode and Sam didn't gain his hearing? Tho then I'm thinking he physically can't, coz he's deaf irl. He's a great little actor and will get more future roles in stuff :)
@@potatosky_7777 It's possible that chronic pain was the reason Granny Adler wasn't walking, rather than an actual physical disability (like paraplegia). The fungus could have rewired her brain to ignore the pain receptors, acting on adrenaline. For example, my mom could barely walk because of a bad hip. She could do it if she had to, but it was debilitatingly painful. Eventually she got it replaced and is now fully mobile again. I don't think we're supposed to think the fungus infection magically healed granny, but rather it was pushing her past her physical limits in service of its need to spread itself to other hosts.
@@annemoore3590 The game makes it clearer that people who recently turned are in a lot of pain, but the drive to attack and spread the infection significantly overpowers that.
One thing I think this episode did brilliantly was show the burden Ellie is feeling regarding her immunity and how that relates to finding a cure. Whether or not she genuinely thought her blood could heal Sam, it's clear that she felt she needed to try, just in case. And it's totally understandable that she'd be afraid of ending up alone, because as things stand now, if everyone gets bit tomorrow, then she's the only person she knows of -- possibly the only person in the world -- who will not turn. That kind of solitude, being the last person left on Earth, is terrifying.
The moment when Ellie turns around and walks away broke me. Shes starting to really embody the same characteristics that Joel has because hes been the role model/ example of how to deal with death, and violence. Such a hard episode to watch.
I got to say, that las part before Henry commits suicide... broke me, the face and the little sad sound Ellie makes, truly, truly broke me... Bella Ramsey is one hell of an actress, damm hard episode to watch
Did you notice at the end there when Joel was looking at the “I’m sorry” note Ellie left Sam that he’s realizing what he said before about children having it easier is wrong? He realized that children can have people that they feel rely on them like how Ellie felt that Sam relied on her.
I'm an anesthesiologist (also working in an ICU) and this may sound a little bit silly, but your insight really helps me in my work to understand better what my patients are feeling and why they are reacting the way they do. And it also makes me think more about how I am reacting to some behaviours. Thank you
@21:38. Seems to come back to this theme of humanity under all the horror of the infected world. When Sam asks Ellie, “When you become a monster, is it still you inside?” That question can be asked of Joel as well. Joel is a monster when he needs to be, but he pleads in that instant and just for once to be Joel.
Damn you pointed out two things I didn’t think about. How Kathleen had to also live with seeing her mothers grief and how Sam laid in the bed 😢 Dope ✊🏾
There’s so much to unpack. I wish I could dive into even more. I’m just so glad this show is here for us all to learn from (the actors make it so meaningful) and watch
the person who said you were infantilizing Ellie should acknowledge that she IS a child. being forced to grow up because of her environment does not change the fact that she is very much a child. neither does being around a bunch of guns and violence.
The way Sam crawls into the bed was such a nice touch.. and exactly why this show has great writing. They pay attention to all of the details. Makes it feel like a real world lived in world with realistic characters.
The one moment that sticks to me on this episode the most is that final cry-sigh that Ellie gives when Henry shoots himself. That's an emotional breaker for me. And again, a very on-point explanation and breakdown of emotional states, human interactions and needs. Only found your channel today, but I feel I need to back track a lot of video's here.
I think I found this channel on a whim when she began breaking down the series 'Wednesday' and was blown away. I've looked back at her breakdowns of 'Euphoria' 'Wednesday' and now this. Definately worth going through the vids.
I will say it’s refreshing to see some empathy for Kathleen. Most people don’t know the strong emotions and desire for revenge that come when a family member is taken by another person. I know how Kathleen feels and I understand the desire to not let Henry get away after causing Michael’s death. I think this show has done an amazing job of showing that no one is a true villain and most people have rational justifications for their sometimes irrational actions.
This was a hard one to watch. The performances, holy crap, so amazing!!! These kid actors, wow! The little boy portraying Sam is gonna get so much work after this, the actor for Henry too. Just incredible! I was so impressed. I, like so many, just fell in love with Sam! Like you said, the writing is so so good. This show better get all the awards next year.
Thing is, with something like a bloater you always know its a monsters. With a human you dont. Plus a human can formulate much more complicated and far reaching plans if they want to off you (and then theres the use of firearms, traps etc).
That whimper Ellie gives after the gunshot is so viscerally realistic. I know this sounds hyperbolic, but that _noise_ is probably one of the best acting moments I've seen in anything, seriously.
30 years ago my mother ended her own life (though thankfully not with a gun). I was just a teenager at the time. It's been a long time and with time, distance, and therapy I've moved forward with my life and it's no longer part of my day-to-day emotional life. But man, the end of this episode came out of the blue and really hit me right in the trauma. I was sobbing and shaking for a good 15 minutes afterwards. Just a reminder, I guess, that we never completely "get over" those things, we just learn to live with them. Funnily enough, while I certainly cried at Frank and Bill's mutual suicide because it was beautiful and sad, I wasn't triggered by it at all. Very different circumstances. Regardless, thank you for making these videos - you always provide some very good insight.
Sorry you had to go through that. They say time heals all wounds but I don't believe that. Some things hurt so deep they never heal. We simply learn to live with the scar.
I watch A LOT of TLoU reaction videos, but yours have a unique touch. As a long-time gamer who's largely desensitized to the violence, I enjoy your perspective.
The big thing with Ellie not killing Bryan was the most blatant example of Ellie having her innocence preserved as a child. I don't know wtf that guy was on saying you were infantilizing her. There's a duality within her.
I would *love* a deep dive from you on sibling protectors, particularly comparing Henry/Sam and Vi/Jinx. How the older siblings assume this role without their parents around and even how it stunts their own development having to always "live for" their younger sibling. Henry & Vi would have lived much different lives in their post-apocalyptic worlds if they didn't have so many decisions to make for their sibling, but also they wouldn't have the strength that having someone look up to you gives.
This episode shows the beauty of The Last Of Us. It's not always a simple choice of "This is the bad guy". You can't always even tell who the "'bad guy" is. IF we look at Henry, he did everything he could to be a good big brother to Sam. He was Sam's Hero. Yet, to protect him and save him, Henry became the villain in Kathleen's story. Joel does everything he can to protect Ellie. By doing so, he became the villain in Bryan's story. No matter how hard we try to tell ourselves 'Well, they deserved it, they attacked first', or that we wouldn't retaliate or we would let it go, when emotions take over, logic goes out the window. When Panic takes over, empathy flies out the window. This is why I love watching your channel, because you put into words what I'm thinking
I absolutely love your reactions. I'm going into this show blind, my bf has watched gameplay but doesn't spoil anything for me, just let's me know how things play out in the game as the show continues. This episode broke me. Like I couldn't stop crying. I just kept seeing Henry's face as he processed what he just did and I think that's what broke me. He dedicated so much to take care of his brother and it's like it was for nothing. I can't imagine having to live in this world and make those tough decisions to keep someone safe and just when there's hope it's gone. And then I think about all the people living in war zones and while they don't have the threat of a zombie disease I can imagine hope is constantly being ripped away from people and that hurts. I'm pretty sure this show is going to absolutely destroy me. I tear up over a lot of things but this show guts me. There are tears running down my face before I can fully process what I just watched. And your reactions add so many more layers that I cry more when I go back and rewatch the episodes.
100%! honestly they are doing a WAY better job of that in the TV show, presumably because they weren't sure where the story was going when they wrote the first game.
The dreadful irony is that Kathleen’s (in)actions are what lead to Sam and Henry’s ultimate fate. If she had been able to put aside her need for vengeance and focus on the the underground Infected her and Perry saw last episode Sam wouldn’t have gotten bit at that time and in that way. Kathleen ultimately got what she wanted. She just also happened to die for it.
It’s important to notice that Joel giving the Old Man a chance to surrender and live is a significant character change induced by his time spent along Ellie. He’s slowly regaining some of his humanity-his compassion, empathy, and fear. From the moment he watched Sarah die in his arms he turned soulless, but Ellie is reminding him of what it meant to be human, and more so a father.
“When we walk into our bedrooms, most of us..” that little pause brought me to tears. I’m happy you went on to explain it but I also didn’t need you to. Now that I’m an adult who gets to live alone in an apartment designed precisely to my comfort, I am so grateful that this bed I bought for myself makes me feel safe and comfy. every night. It really is a privilege.
The writing is impeccable. Almost everything the characters do has a follow up. Payoff, purpose, symmetry, opposites, its everywhere. I promise, im sorry. Im a child, im a caretaker. Henry, Kathleen. Im a ruthless man, who doesnt want to be ruthless. Joel walking away, Ellie walking away.
God, I love your reactions and your insight. I can understand a lot of things when it comes to the emotions of these characters and even their main purpose but your thoughts about these makes it even better! For me, the worst part about Ellie saying: "My blood is medicine." is that she actually believed that she can heal Sam. And if you're familiar with the games it makes it even sadder.
Looking forward to your reaction to this episode, Doc, especially about the grayness of the situation. This one’s a doozy of an episode/pivotal moment in-game.
"Well kids die, Henry. They die all the time - You think the whole world revolves around him? That he's worth everything?" That scene of Henry and Sam's demise was incredible, but this was the low-key best line of this episode. Gets to the overarching theme of the series so directly.
Most importantly going forward I think is how Joel responded to this whole situation. He's had to reckon with Ellie being in mortal danger after they bonded, and even more frightening for him than taking potshots at infected getting in her way is having to stand and do nothing in those split seconds when Henry is pointing a gun at him, preventing him from rushing over to Ellie and protecting her from the infected Sam. Shakily asking her whether she's okay and having to watch a child die in front of him again, it's bringing all those feelings back to the surface again... And then Henry shoots himself. This is something hinted at with the old sniper Joel shoots... Begging him "please don't", recognizing that the old man is about to intentionally get Joel to kill him ("suicide by cop" as the showrunners called it), it's something Joel recognizes because of COURSE he's had suicidal thoughts since Sarah died and in the game it's even more heavily implied that he has attempted suicide. And to watch Henry go through with that and do the dirty deed to himself... He's realizing that if Ellie were to die like that, a possibility that seems to be growing more real by the day, he might not be able to take it, he might experience that all over again and is he emotionally prepared to take that chance with her?...
You can also add the Eli is still has a child like mentality because of the way she tries and basically blood transfusions with Sam. It’s something a little kid would do and see as a solution
Your outro was so valued. It's hard to not look at amything other than bleak darkness when you wake up each day. But the point is you DID wake up. Taking care of myself more and more these days and allowing myself to be vulnerable, to be healed, to be myself. Breathe in and breathe out. The world is in this moment. 🌎
I'm glad you keep in the action sequences and other non mental health related things. It's a great show and I like seeing your reaction to all of it. The lens through which you review the eps is great too! No doubt.
Great reaction as always, Courtney! Something I find interesting is Kathleen's hesitation both times when confronting Henry, she looks remorseful and almost has to psyche herself up to shoot. When she says she knows why he did what he did, I think she means every word. Henry and Kathleen are essentially two sides of the same coin who would have done anything for their siblings. Had the roles been reversed, she would have the done the exact same thing Henry did to save her brother and she knows it. Coupled with the fact that her brother told her to forgive, and that she may have been on good terms with Henry and Sam before all of this, it's easy to see how the only thing fuelling her would be debilitating grief more than anything. And rest in peace to Henry and Sam. Sam couldn't survive, and Henry couldn't endure. 🪦
This really enhanced the episode for me. I was a little cold on the episode itself initially (especially compared to the last few)--but your unpacking, discussion, tying it in to the larger story threads (and seriously the editing where you include clips of footage from previous episodes as you discuss is effective) made it all click a lot better. I especially like how much you drove home that people were making inhumane decisions because of the inhumanity of the conditions they exist in, how a need for safety and security takes priority. I dunno, some of the writing and contrivances when I watched the episode itself seemed heavy-handed but I really like how you built it out and connected it, made it more human.
This show keeps hitting hard with so many emotional punches, that it's hard to catch your breath. The thing I've been enjoying about this show, when compared to the game, is that it's giving more time to explore each of these characters on a more human level. What is Good and Evil? What is the human condition? What are we willing to do to survive? Can we even cling to that bit of hope and humanity in such tragic and dire times. I've been really enjoying your analysis of this show and how each character is broken down to their emotional core. The show and videogame may have sad and tragic storylines, but the genius of the writing is that it's presenting a look into how humanity would react in desperate situations. Kindness, love and understanding are usually the best roads to travel, but as human beings we tend to get lost and need to find that bright shining light to help us get back onto the correct path.
@@the.truth.doctor I'm glad I found your channel. I watch some other similar channels on YT that have analyzed this show, but you are very thorough when it comes to the whole show (episode to episode). I really appreciate that and so do your followers.
@@Doctor2285 interestingly enough, with that last line, would be the importance of the Firefly's slogan "when lost in the dark, look for the light" I agree completely about the difference between the show and the game. The way they're able to expand the characters and show a bit more keeps me very engaged and more informed. Even asking more questions than the games did. Can't wait to see what they do with Part 2.
Can we PLEASE get this channel more viewings!? This has been invaluable for me to understand my feelings ever since Playing the game for the first time 10 years ago and why I’ve felt so attached to the show recently
"No matter how much time you spend with someone, when they pass away, it feels like it was just a single moment" My dog passed away from old age a few days ago, and that's exactly what it's like. We've had him for 18 years and when he passed it felt like I hadn't had enough time with him, like he was here, then in the blink of an eye, he was gone. It will never, ever feel like it was enough time, no matter how much you're given.
18:37 You touched a point I had not considered when I watched the episode: if Kathleen's mom's grief played a role in Kathleen's decisions too. Interesting take, I like that!
i always look forward to your reactions, i struggle w bpd/c-ptsd so this episode was difficult for me, despite being my favorite. u always help me process my feelings about the episode, thank u💕
32:59 another thing I find interesting is how Joel via being with Ellie for the last while seems to have regained some of his humanity and lost some of his hard shell while Ellie on the other hand due to the deaths of Henry and Sam has now lost some of her own humanity and has seemingly begun to develop a hard shell of her own.
😢. In the Last of Us 2, I had hard feelings about a character. But watching this show with you. Not never played the 1st game. So seeing it with all this depth. And then you breaking down all these emotional points I never considered! I'm rethinking EVERYTHING. and I'm not sure I like it. 😕 but points are being made. Thanks for this break down of the show.
I think I may know the character you're speaking of, but for the sake of not spoiling anything for anyone else reading, i wont mention names or situations. If you havent played or seen the first game, a bit more connection will come by the end of the season, and the ending always had a huge conversation which Part two leans into heavy and is honestly a catalyst for the story. I hope by the finale I see you comment again and we could possibly have a better conversation about things. Hope you keep enjoying/watching the show. Stay great.
That kindergarten was actually one of the most heart-breaking places to go through in the game. Nothing plot-wise, but... they left notes and things that told a story, advancing it piece by piece. And then to come across the infected and realize who they were...
The part where you were talking about revenge and the realistic (per the circumstances that these characters live in) and beautiful insight that you have about why someone would even consider revenge and what we would do if we found ourselves in that same predicament makes me excited about your insights on season 2 if they go in the direction I think they are.
Eloquent response to the comment about infantilizing. And your final thoughts about communicating who you are watching with, I completely agree, it doesn't even need to be said because this show just influences and brings that part out of people if you even have a portion of sympathy. It's so well done~
I think the show was interesting because it humanized Kathleen even though it also made her a villain. The writers made a point of humanizing her by showing her sadness about her brother's death. Then, contrasted that with her willingness to kill an uninfected and innocent child. This makes her different than any other character we've seen. All the other characters ,who have killed children regretted it. Thank you for watching this show with us, even though it can be difficult.
I feel like you are someone who truly understands the true complexity and moral conflict and emotional depth and meaning of this show - it is validating to watch as some one who also loves this story so much and amazing to learn from your perspective
What also happens is that the show (and game) primes you for "this character gets introduced, and then they die", which desensitizes you from trying to form a relationship with the next person to show up, which is exactly how the characters feel.
The moment I watched the episode I knew that your reaction was gonna be priceless! I always watch these episodes during daytime precisely because of all the emotions they can evoke. I can process them better and then I just go to sleep at night kinda "cleaned up" from all the rollercoaster of feelings 😗
Not sure if you noticed (not at that part) but when Henry looks out the window you see the orange in the building across from him reflect in the window so it appears across his eyes in the same way he gave Sam his hero face paint. Henry is Sam's hero.
I very much enjoy your videos as companion pieces for the episodes. It's such an amazing, but dark show and your analysis and commentary is very insightful for understanding the characters even better. Thanks!
Bill and frank was a true watershed moment.. in terms of translating a game to the screen this was even better...this was jaw droppingly amazing.... Tbh can say that for most episodes..each one has that feel..
Although some of these events take place a little bit differently in the game, you touched on the point of needing to process, which is remarkable. I never thought that just might be the reason those who watch this, or have played the games, have built such a community and connection with each other and the content. Having to discuss these moments and curiosity of how others reacted or took them in, to be able to express our own thoughts abd work them. These aren't gratuitous moments for the sake of them, but they do build to something and are very heavy in the lore/world being built and story told. This makes me think of times when I played part 2 and had to stop after moments and take a day or two break, or call someone just ti talk to them and seek out ppl who were playing it at the same time I was. It's not just the memories and personalization that can happen, but the connection with the characters as you become them and have agency over them as you're playing this story bringing it to life, it all compounds and hits hard. This game, and now I'm certain the show will to, have garnered so many think pieces and analyzations for a reason. The most profound thing is that there isn't really a wrong or right with them, mostly perspective and understanding. I'm enjoying you're journey through the show and insight being given to me. Looking forward to the last few, and as always, stay great!!!!
The difficult to process what is meant by Henry saying "What did I do?" because of the fact that he just shot his younger brother. But he also was wondering about his actions when it comes to Kathleen's brother, Michael, which he already had great guilt over and at that moment possibly sending a great man to his death for nothing.
The analysis found here.... for this series... is... stunning... BUT for this episode... humanity itself... is being peeled back... meaningful layer, by layers of meaning... and illuminated like nothing else... Extraordinary. Tears.
14:55 I have listened to the HBO podcast. The directors noted that when doing children there is a tendency to make them too old or too young. The phrasing they used to describe the teenage years that Ellie is experiencing is a "fuck you"/"tuck me in" period of life. Where they are rebelling and trying to experience their independence but still have a need to be cared for and be a kid. Personally I think you have done a wonderful job of getting these characters, partly because they are so well written, allowing you to treat them as authentic humans subject to all the psychological dynamics that your profession enables you to examine. The other aspect, I do consider you a good and insightful psychologist. Lastly, just want to express my gratitude for covering the important topic of enabling and empowering communities, such as deaf culture, to act as agents rather than doing things on their behalf.
I played the game so I knew roughly how things were going to go with Sam and Henry, and they did follow it pretty closely, so I thought I was steeled enough to handle it. I wasn't. Especially now, in the years between playing the game and seeing the show, I have seen sudden violent death happen not a foot away from me, and the acting in this episode was very raw and authentic feeling. I am okay now, but I wasn't for a few days after. Glad that you release these a little later in the week so we have some time to process first. Thank you.
I always love listening to your commentary about these phenomenal pieces of media, pointing out details I wouldn't normally notice while giving us an even deeper insight of the physcology of these incredibly written characters, great video as always
14:33 Thank you for addressing this. Ellie is still a child through and through I agree. That comment is so wrong wtf.... I really enjoy these videos. Keep up the good work :)
I feel that, besides the fact that she's basically still a child, Ellie tries to play and engage and bond with Sam in the way she does because she feels deeply protective of him and wants him to feel safe. She sees this younger and objectively more vulnerable child and willingly takes on the role of big sister. Which makes what comes so incredibly heartbreaking.
I've now watched the reactions of five episodes and I'm absolutely thrilled. Your explanations are great and very informative. I'm learning a lot, understanding a lot more and realizing how much I've seen alike. Now I'm really excited to see how you explain my favorite passage in the next episode. It tears me up inside whenever I see it.
I’m so grateful for these videos. Thank you; though, I skipped to the end then back to the beginning just to get that scene over with. Love the show, but sometimes it really hurts to watch.
As a player of the games, and enjoying the show, the world of The Last of Us holds no punches. It truly helps to have discussions though, which I feel is the most remarkable thing about both.
When you mentioned Sam getting onto the bed, it sparked a thought. They no longer live in a world where you take your shoes and clothing off to go to sleep, because anything can happen. It's really the tiny details.
Thank you so much for your reactions. I've been watching this show in such a different light than any other show. You make so many small yet very important things clear and connect so many things that have been said or have been done in previous episodes with those that follow. And it's that connecting the dots that make this show so much deeper and real than I otherwise would have thought and experienced.
Well, I don't know about anyone else, but I think you're brilliant. There are a lot of therapists in my family so I know the gig pretty well. What I really appreciate is that you gently mix your professionalism with your personal reaction and your artistic appreciation. I imagine you're also quite a writer.
i have played this game to completion at least 8 to 10 time. i play it at least once a year. and the one thing that i love that they did with the show is that they are showing use all sides of the character. showed us Kathleen and her story, they extended Bill and franks story and giving them a true happy ending, or at least a happy ending for the world they are in. expanding on henry and Sam People sometimes like to think that because this is a "Zombie" Show, that there should be more Zombies. but this show and even the game isnt about Zombies, its about the human condition, relationships and the connections between them. They are showing us that not all the "Bad Guys" are actually bad, at least not through there eyes Also i love your channel
This was another heart breaking episode. Hearing Henry take his life but focusing on Elie watching it happen was painful. Living in this world it is likely Elie has seen people die, maybe end their life but from her reaction it is possible this is the first time it is someone she has a real connection with. Her talk about her blood healing was just as painful, partially cause of the trope of superblood that can cure anything, but her learning that it doesn't work hurts more. If Joel gets infected than she has no way to help him and now she understands this to be true. I honestly wonder if she is starting to doubt that she can help save anyone even if they find these doctors. The fireflies believe so but we never saw any medical equipment or labs for them to test. Only a belief that they can find a cure and like Joel said, we heard that before. Just because she hasn't turned in to a monster doesn't mean she is immune, it could be just a genetic mutation or some type of birth defect in her brain that prevents the fungus taking hold. One thing the game never answered was how she was resistant and I am curious if this show will have an answer.
Okay Doc, I'm really enjoying your perspective on these scenes. You're making me think about things that never crossed my mind. And then you go and start accurately predicting what characters are thinking before they say it (Kathleen's whole thing with what's the point). Not bad Doctor. Fine, I'll subscribe. You got me.
This was a hard one to watch. If you are struggling to watch this show please know that is normal. I hope my commentary can bring you some comfort. Please see the description for any resources you may need. Endure and survive.❤
If there is something missing from this episode that you'd like me to comment on let me know and I'll try and answer it in the comments or in next week's video. Thank you for being here! 👇
thats was a part of the episode that i though interesting henry looked up at the window and saw joel his eyes was in the middle of a orange light like a mask of a super hero
You skipped over the part where Perry was talking to Kathleen in her old room and he basically said that her brother was well loved, but nothing changed while he was in charge. She and her ruthlessness is what got things to change (even if not for the better). Was wondering what your thoughts were on that, and if that served as the foundation to everyones loyalty despite some of her more questionable choices.
@@Dilligff This is a great question! When someone or a group of people have been traumatised for so long, reaching for violence and ruthlessness makes sense. What did the KC freedom movement get from Kathleen that they couldn't get from her brother? Why follow her? I would love more of a analysis of her character!
this episode is a bridge for s2 and s3 which will cover the 2nd game.
Fun Fact: Perry (the guy with the beard) was the voice actor for Tommy in the game. They actually do this a lot throughout the series. The voice actor for Joel shows up in episode 8 and the voice actors for Ellie and Abby (from part 2) show up in episode 9. Sadly, the voice actress for Tess passed away recently.
It's heartbreaking how every single episode slowly takes away a tiny bit of Ellie's innocence.
Absolutely.
Spoiler Alert
*The Last of Us Part 2 flashbacks*
Ellie becomes more and more fine with violence while Joel is becoming more "tired" of it. Their emotions moving in opposite directions is quite interesting, and setting up their characters in part 2. Love TLOU so much!
But it is slowly opening Joel up so that is a positive.
ellie's not that innocent to begin with, tho.
"If you turn into a monster, is it still you inside?" is such a good line. Sam already knows he's been bitten, but turning into a monster isn't the part that scares him. What scares him is the fact that the fungus will most likely take control of his brain, turning him to a mindless creature with no control over his own body. It hits especially hard considering that as a deaf kid, loss of autonomy is something he's all too familiar with.
This comment gave me chills.
This comment has split the community. Many believe Yes you are aware but unable to do anything. Many others think that the Fungi is the Only thing present and your 'True Self' is utterly gone. It is heart breaking.
If the Cordyceps that takes over humans works the same as that which controls ants, then it actually never enters the brain. It takes over every other tissue in the body and sends signals to muscles directly, but the brain remains unaffected. The infected are probably fully conscious and aware of everything their body is doing but are helpless to stop themselves from killing everyone they love
@@davidedwards1705 the show runners discussed this exact point, and gave a definitive answer, from a 'lore' point of view. Their discussion is available on the accompanying podcast for episode 5. Thought I'd pass it along.
@@davidedwards1705 The fungus doesn't 'think' for you. If you are locked in, self-aware but unable to stop your body from behaving in a certain way, then what is controlling that behaviour and how is it stopping you from exerting your own control? It only makes sense if the fungus has consumed the 'individual' and the body is running on basic brain-stem level, biochemical drives - run, breathe, climb, feed etc.
edited to add, it's also important to remember that this is fiction. Cordyceps infects insects, not mammals and certainly not humans with our huge brains and antibody-mediated immune systems. It's pure fantasy. The science is superficially plausible, but it does not withstand any scrutiny.
Joel protecting Ellie from afar and panicking when he thought she was in danger was one of my favorite parts of this episode. That and his immediate response after Sam is shot was to ask her if she was ok and step forward to go comfort her. The bond that they’re continuing to develop is so amazing to watch, even in such tragic circumstances.
Yes yes yes. These were such pivotal moments!
After Ellie got out of the vehicle to escape the contortionist/gymnast/ child clicker, she noticed Henry and Sam being attacked and look up at Joel and they both knew right away that she was going help them while he provided cover. Ellie and Joel's connection is indeed strong. By the way, Joel is an excellent marksman.
@@robincraft4682 oh absolutely some of those shots were bold moves but he pulled them off 😅
@@robincraft4682 Yeah, Joel and Tommy probably grew up plinking guns in Texas. Joel wasn't military like Tommy, but he had the same instincts by flanking the shooter. He also finished Bryan with one cut along the ribs instead of against the ribs, which tells us he is probably a good hunter as well.
@@robincraft4682 having grown up on the farm, hunting was a big part of my life when I was young. I love that they show Joel missing some shots as well, since even the best Marksman doesn't make every single shot. Particularly when he was shooting at the truck they showed him missing several times which seems very realistic shooting at a moving Target from long distance
Cute thing: the 9 year old gymnast (Skye Newton) was a bit scared of the big Infected (Adam Basil), so they took pains to introduce them, show Adam with his head piece off, etc.
I found that story endearing.
I'm glad you pointed out the way Henry translates for Sam and allows him to be part of the conversation rather than speaking for him and denying him autonomy. I think that was a really important detail for them to include.
I also appreciate that they cast an actual Deaf kid as Sam, apparently they only had 5 people sign up to audition because they were specifically looking for a Deaf Black boy ages 8-11. It's always nice to see good disability representation
This was one of my favourite parts of the episode, and why I'm glad they made this change from the game. Disabled people are not often represented well in media, and therefore people consume media and their understanding of disability and how to react to and engage with disabled people is learned from these weak representations. Either the depiction of says disability is inaccurate (and usually cast by an actor who has no lived experience with it) or we learn to infantilize or disregard disabled people (at least as an autistic person this is my experience in viewing media with disabled characters, it's something I think about pretty often). The simple act of casting a deaf actor and giving his character that autonomy in the story is so great in a show as big as TLOU. Representation matters.
What was interesting about this episode was that it gave some insight into what it is like to look after a child in the middle of a warzone. Millions of children go through this each year.
So true and so heartbreaking. ❤️🩹
No one ever actually thinks about them. If they did, it would destroy us all. Thus PROPAGANDA
I think the reason Ellie leaves the grave first is because of her guilt. Joel previously told Sam that children have it easier because they have no responsibility to others. But Ellie has taken responsibility for Sam here and thinks she has failed.
Ellie really has a mission now. Indirectly get through her feelings of guilt. She wants her blood to work. Before that, she was someone who had no control over anything. Others have determined where she grows up and where she has to go now. "I didn't ask for this" were her words in episode 2.
Now that has changed. Now conviction plays a role and she takes control. She wants to save the world so that there are no more Sam's. And while Joel gradually finds his humanity again and lets people into his life again, Ellie loses a little more of herself and she takes the lead here in the end.
Yes yes!
While watching this episode a second time ,I thought to myself “wonder if Sam deliberately turned his back to Ellie when she fell asleep.?” Knowing he could not hear her he wouldn’t attack her when if he turned but would’ve if he turned while she was in sight
😮
How come the granny gained mobility in the first episode and Sam didn't gain his hearing? Tho then I'm thinking he physically can't, coz he's deaf irl. He's a great little actor and will get more future roles in stuff :)
@@potatosky_7777 It's possible that chronic pain was the reason Granny Adler wasn't walking, rather than an actual physical disability (like paraplegia). The fungus could have rewired her brain to ignore the pain receptors, acting on adrenaline. For example, my mom could barely walk because of a bad hip. She could do it if she had to, but it was debilitatingly painful. Eventually she got it replaced and is now fully mobile again. I don't think we're supposed to think the fungus infection magically healed granny, but rather it was pushing her past her physical limits in service of its need to spread itself to other hosts.
@@annemoore3590 She broke her leg when she run
@@annemoore3590 The game makes it clearer that people who recently turned are in a lot of pain, but the drive to attack and spread the infection significantly overpowers that.
One thing I think this episode did brilliantly was show the burden Ellie is feeling regarding her immunity and how that relates to finding a cure. Whether or not she genuinely thought her blood could heal Sam, it's clear that she felt she needed to try, just in case. And it's totally understandable that she'd be afraid of ending up alone, because as things stand now, if everyone gets bit tomorrow, then she's the only person she knows of -- possibly the only person in the world -- who will not turn. That kind of solitude, being the last person left on Earth, is terrifying.
Yessss especially since her biggest fear is ending up alone. Imagine being the only immune person left in the world…
@@xxxmochibaby The last of us, you might say...
The moment when Ellie turns around and walks away broke me. Shes starting to really embody the same characteristics that Joel has because hes been the role model/ example of how to deal with death, and violence. Such a hard episode to watch.
She’s becoming harder psychologically. Much like Joel
I got to say, that las part before Henry commits suicide... broke me, the face and the little sad sound Ellie makes, truly, truly broke me... Bella Ramsey is one hell of an actress, damm hard episode to watch
Did you notice at the end there when Joel was looking at the “I’m sorry” note Ellie left Sam that he’s realizing what he said before about children having it easier is wrong? He realized that children can have people that they feel rely on them like how Ellie felt that Sam relied on her.
I'm an anesthesiologist (also working in an ICU) and this may sound a little bit silly, but your insight really helps me in my work to understand better what my patients are feeling and why they are reacting the way they do. And it also makes me think more about how I am reacting to some behaviours. Thank you
@21:38. Seems to come back to this theme of humanity under all the horror of the infected world. When Sam asks Ellie, “When you become a monster, is it still you inside?” That question can be asked of Joel as well. Joel is a monster when he needs to be, but he pleads in that instant and just for once to be Joel.
Phew, this is gold.
Damn you pointed out two things I didn’t think about. How Kathleen had to also live with seeing her mothers grief and how Sam laid in the bed 😢
Dope ✊🏾
There’s so much to unpack. I wish I could dive into even more. I’m just so glad this show is here for us all to learn from (the actors make it so meaningful) and watch
the person who said you were infantilizing Ellie should acknowledge that she IS a child. being forced to grow up because of her environment does not change the fact that she is very much a child. neither does being around a bunch of guns and violence.
The way Sam crawls into the bed was such a nice touch.. and exactly why this show has great writing. They pay attention to all of the details. Makes it feel like a real world lived in world with realistic characters.
The one moment that sticks to me on this episode the most is that final cry-sigh that Ellie gives when Henry shoots himself. That's an emotional breaker for me.
And again, a very on-point explanation and breakdown of emotional states, human interactions and needs. Only found your channel today, but I feel I need to back track a lot of video's here.
I think I found this channel on a whim when she began breaking down the series 'Wednesday' and was blown away. I've looked back at her breakdowns of 'Euphoria' 'Wednesday' and now this. Definately worth going through the vids.
Thanks for being here! That moment was just so deeply human. It hit my heart, like really touched it. This show is wild.
I will say it’s refreshing to see some empathy for Kathleen. Most people don’t know the strong emotions and desire for revenge that come when a family member is taken by another person. I know how Kathleen feels and I understand the desire to not let Henry get away after causing Michael’s death. I think this show has done an amazing job of showing that no one is a true villain and most people have rational justifications for their sometimes irrational actions.
This episode hit me hard, and I've played the game. What really got me was Ellie's whimper. It absolutely broke me.
This was a hard one to watch. The performances, holy crap, so amazing!!! These kid actors, wow! The little boy portraying Sam is gonna get so much work after this, the actor for Henry too. Just incredible! I was so impressed. I, like so many, just fell in love with Sam! Like you said, the writing is so so good. This show better get all the awards next year.
Dr. Tracy: “In this world the people really are far more dangerous than the infected.”
Bloater: “Excuse me?!”
Yeah, I had a similar reaction.
"This opinion will last for about another 20 minutes." 😬
@@thomashiggins9320more like 20 seconds 😅
Thing is, with something like a bloater you always know its a monsters. With a human you dont. Plus a human can formulate much more complicated and far reaching plans if they want to off you (and then theres the use of firearms, traps etc).
A bloater’s kill is brutal but relatively quick. The things a human can do…
That whimper Ellie gives after the gunshot is so viscerally realistic. I know this sounds hyperbolic, but that _noise_ is probably one of the best acting moments I've seen in anything, seriously.
30 years ago my mother ended her own life (though thankfully not with a gun). I was just a teenager at the time. It's been a long time and with time, distance, and therapy I've moved forward with my life and it's no longer part of my day-to-day emotional life. But man, the end of this episode came out of the blue and really hit me right in the trauma. I was sobbing and shaking for a good 15 minutes afterwards. Just a reminder, I guess, that we never completely "get over" those things, we just learn to live with them. Funnily enough, while I certainly cried at Frank and Bill's mutual suicide because it was beautiful and sad, I wasn't triggered by it at all. Very different circumstances.
Regardless, thank you for making these videos - you always provide some very good insight.
Sorry you had to go through that. They say time heals all wounds but I don't believe that. Some things hurt so deep they never heal. We simply learn to live with the scar.
I watch A LOT of TLoU reaction videos, but yours have a unique touch. As a long-time gamer who's largely desensitized to the violence, I enjoy your perspective.
The big thing with Ellie not killing Bryan was the most blatant example of Ellie having her innocence preserved as a child. I don't know wtf that guy was on saying you were infantilizing her. There's a duality within her.
I would *love* a deep dive from you on sibling protectors, particularly comparing Henry/Sam and Vi/Jinx. How the older siblings assume this role without their parents around and even how it stunts their own development having to always "live for" their younger sibling.
Henry & Vi would have lived much different lives in their post-apocalyptic worlds if they didn't have so many decisions to make for their sibling, but also they wouldn't have the strength that having someone look up to you gives.
This is an excellent idea. Thank you so much!
@@the.truth.doctor Dean and Sam Winchester from Supernatural too
Vax and Vex in Legend of Vox Machina also.
Quite an underrated pair but Sean and Daniel from Life is Strange 2.
I'm shocked some folks think 14 year olds aren't children.
I really appreciate your commentary with this show. Thank you.
This episode shows the beauty of The Last Of Us. It's not always a simple choice of "This is the bad guy". You can't always even tell who the "'bad guy" is. IF we look at Henry, he did everything he could to be a good big brother to Sam. He was Sam's Hero. Yet, to protect him and save him, Henry became the villain in Kathleen's story. Joel does everything he can to protect Ellie. By doing so, he became the villain in Bryan's story. No matter how hard we try to tell ourselves 'Well, they deserved it, they attacked first', or that we wouldn't retaliate or we would let it go, when emotions take over, logic goes out the window. When Panic takes over, empathy flies out the window.
This is why I love watching your channel, because you put into words what I'm thinking
I absolutely love your reactions. I'm going into this show blind, my bf has watched gameplay but doesn't spoil anything for me, just let's me know how things play out in the game as the show continues. This episode broke me. Like I couldn't stop crying. I just kept seeing Henry's face as he processed what he just did and I think that's what broke me. He dedicated so much to take care of his brother and it's like it was for nothing. I can't imagine having to live in this world and make those tough decisions to keep someone safe and just when there's hope it's gone. And then I think about all the people living in war zones and while they don't have the threat of a zombie disease I can imagine hope is constantly being ripped away from people and that hurts.
I'm pretty sure this show is going to absolutely destroy me. I tear up over a lot of things but this show guts me. There are tears running down my face before I can fully process what I just watched. And your reactions add so many more layers that I cry more when I go back and rewatch the episodes.
the way she screams when he takes his life really hit me deep, such amazing acting! Bella definitely deserves breakthrough artist award
This episode does a great job of foreshadowing not only the end of this story but also the events of the second game's story as well.
I know right? So do actors for Frank, Bill, Henry and Sam but I don't know if hbo can nominate them all. So much talent here, they are all so good.
100%! honestly they are doing a WAY better job of that in the TV show, presumably because they weren't sure where the story was going when they wrote the first game.
The dreadful irony is that Kathleen’s (in)actions are what lead to Sam and Henry’s ultimate fate. If she had been able to put aside her need for vengeance and focus on the the underground Infected her and Perry saw last episode Sam wouldn’t have gotten bit at that time and in that way. Kathleen ultimately got what she wanted. She just also happened to die for it.
They probably would've died anyway. 15+ years worth of infected and they just learned about it days before? All they could've done is migrate maybe
It’s important to notice that Joel giving the Old Man a chance to surrender and live is a significant character change induced by his time spent along Ellie. He’s slowly regaining some of his humanity-his compassion, empathy, and fear. From the moment he watched Sarah die in his arms he turned soulless, but Ellie is reminding him of what it meant to be human, and more so a father.
“When we walk into our bedrooms, most of us..” that little pause brought me to tears. I’m happy you went on to explain it but I also didn’t need you to. Now that I’m an adult who gets to live alone in an apartment designed precisely to my comfort, I am so grateful that this bed I bought for myself makes me feel safe and comfy. every night. It really is a privilege.
The writing is impeccable. Almost everything the characters do has a follow up. Payoff, purpose, symmetry, opposites, its everywhere.
I promise, im sorry. Im a child, im a caretaker. Henry, Kathleen. Im a ruthless man, who doesnt want to be ruthless. Joel walking away, Ellie walking away.
"Whose life is more important?"
I love that you picked up on that.
God, I love your reactions and your insight. I can understand a lot of things when it comes to the emotions of these characters and even their main purpose but your thoughts about these makes it even better! For me, the worst part about Ellie saying: "My blood is medicine." is that she actually believed that she can heal Sam. And if you're familiar with the games it makes it even sadder.
Looking forward to your reaction to this episode, Doc, especially about the grayness of the situation. This one’s a doozy of an episode/pivotal moment in-game.
Thank you so much. And yes I spend most of this episode talking about the “grayness” of it all. Let me know what you think of my commentary!
"Well kids die, Henry. They die all the time - You think the whole world revolves around him? That he's worth everything?"
That scene of Henry and Sam's demise was incredible, but this was the low-key best line of this episode. Gets to the overarching theme of the series so directly.
Made me think of the ending of the game..
Most importantly going forward I think is how Joel responded to this whole situation. He's had to reckon with Ellie being in mortal danger after they bonded, and even more frightening for him than taking potshots at infected getting in her way is having to stand and do nothing in those split seconds when Henry is pointing a gun at him, preventing him from rushing over to Ellie and protecting her from the infected Sam. Shakily asking her whether she's okay and having to watch a child die in front of him again, it's bringing all those feelings back to the surface again...
And then Henry shoots himself. This is something hinted at with the old sniper Joel shoots... Begging him "please don't", recognizing that the old man is about to intentionally get Joel to kill him ("suicide by cop" as the showrunners called it), it's something Joel recognizes because of COURSE he's had suicidal thoughts since Sarah died and in the game it's even more heavily implied that he has attempted suicide.
And to watch Henry go through with that and do the dirty deed to himself... He's realizing that if Ellie were to die like that, a possibility that seems to be growing more real by the day, he might not be able to take it, he might experience that all over again and is he emotionally prepared to take that chance with her?...
You can also add the Eli is still has a child like mentality because of the way she tries and basically blood transfusions with Sam. It’s something a little kid would do and see as a solution
Your outro was so valued. It's hard to not look at amything other than bleak darkness when you wake up each day. But the point is you DID wake up.
Taking care of myself more and more these days and allowing myself to be vulnerable, to be healed, to be myself.
Breathe in and breathe out. The world is in this moment. 🌎
Joel softens as Ellie hardens
As soon as I saw this episode I was like oooo this gonna be such a great reaction I can’t wait. Was just as heartbreaking as the game
It was, and a little bit more impactful with how Ellie and Sam interacted here, and seeing some of the stuff that happened immediately after.
Yes! I’ve been waiting for this all week!
Yay! Thank you!
@@the.truth.doctorYou’re welcome! I’m really enjoying your analysis.
I'm glad you keep in the action sequences and other non mental health related things. It's a great show and I like seeing your reaction to all of it. The lens through which you review the eps is great too! No doubt.
Thank you so much!
thank you for not editing out your emotions. it makes it honest, heartfelt and of course entertaining. and obviously educational
Great reaction as always, Courtney! Something I find interesting is Kathleen's hesitation both times when confronting Henry, she looks remorseful and almost has to psyche herself up to shoot. When she says she knows why he did what he did, I think she means every word. Henry and Kathleen are essentially two sides of the same coin who would have done anything for their siblings. Had the roles been reversed, she would have the done the exact same thing Henry did to save her brother and she knows it. Coupled with the fact that her brother told her to forgive, and that she may have been on good terms with Henry and Sam before all of this, it's easy to see how the only thing fuelling her would be debilitating grief more than anything.
And rest in peace to Henry and Sam. Sam couldn't survive, and Henry couldn't endure. 🪦
Thank you for providing such thoughtful, value add analysis. It makes the experience richer.
My pleasure!
This really enhanced the episode for me. I was a little cold on the episode itself initially (especially compared to the last few)--but your unpacking, discussion, tying it in to the larger story threads (and seriously the editing where you include clips of footage from previous episodes as you discuss is effective) made it all click a lot better.
I especially like how much you drove home that people were making inhumane decisions because of the inhumanity of the conditions they exist in, how a need for safety and security takes priority. I dunno, some of the writing and contrivances when I watched the episode itself seemed heavy-handed but I really like how you built it out and connected it, made it more human.
Thank you so much
This show keeps hitting hard with so many emotional punches, that it's hard to catch your breath. The thing I've been enjoying about this show, when compared to the game, is that it's giving more time to explore each of these characters on a more human level. What is Good and Evil? What is the human condition? What are we willing to do to survive? Can we even cling to that bit of hope and humanity in such tragic and dire times. I've been really enjoying your analysis of this show and how each character is broken down to their emotional core. The show and videogame may have sad and tragic storylines, but the genius of the writing is that it's presenting a look into how humanity would react in desperate situations. Kindness, love and understanding are usually the best roads to travel, but as human beings we tend to get lost and need to find that bright shining light to help us get back onto the correct path.
This is such a beautiful comment. Those were all the questions going through my head too so far this series. It’s all consuming, in a good way.
@@the.truth.doctor I'm glad I found your channel. I watch some other similar channels on YT that have analyzed this show, but you are very thorough when it comes to the whole show (episode to episode). I really appreciate that and so do your followers.
@@Doctor2285 interestingly enough, with that last line, would be the importance of the Firefly's slogan "when lost in the dark, look for the light" I agree completely about the difference between the show and the game. The way they're able to expand the characters and show a bit more keeps me very engaged and more informed. Even asking more questions than the games did. Can't wait to see what they do with Part 2.
I've watched about a dozen reactions to this episode. Still tear up every time. Hugs, everyone.
Can we PLEASE get this channel more viewings!? This has been invaluable for me to understand my feelings ever since Playing the game for the first time 10 years ago and why I’ve felt so attached to the show recently
Thank you ❤️❤️
"No matter how much time you spend with someone, when they pass away, it feels like it was just a single moment"
My dog passed away from old age a few days ago, and that's exactly what it's like. We've had him for 18 years and when he passed it felt like I hadn't had enough time with him, like he was here, then in the blink of an eye, he was gone. It will never, ever feel like it was enough time, no matter how much you're given.
18:37 You touched a point I had not considered when I watched the episode: if Kathleen's mom's grief played a role in Kathleen's decisions too. Interesting take, I like that!
Very interesting. She's very good at noticing these details.
i always look forward to your reactions, i struggle w bpd/c-ptsd so this episode was difficult for me, despite being my favorite. u always help me process my feelings about the episode, thank u💕
32:59 another thing I find interesting is how Joel via being with Ellie for the last while seems to have regained some of his humanity and lost some of his hard shell while Ellie on the other hand due to the deaths of Henry and Sam has now lost some of her own humanity and has seemingly begun to develop a hard shell of her own.
😢. In the Last of Us 2, I had hard feelings about a character. But watching this show with you. Not never played the 1st game. So seeing it with all this depth.
And then you breaking down all these emotional points I never considered! I'm rethinking EVERYTHING. and I'm not sure I like it. 😕 but points are being made. Thanks for this break down of the show.
I think I may know the character you're speaking of, but for the sake of not spoiling anything for anyone else reading, i wont mention names or situations. If you havent played or seen the first game, a bit more connection will come by the end of the season, and the ending always had a huge conversation which Part two leans into heavy and is honestly a catalyst for the story. I hope by the finale I see you comment again and we could possibly have a better conversation about things. Hope you keep enjoying/watching the show. Stay great.
That kindergarten was actually one of the most heart-breaking places to go through in the game. Nothing plot-wise, but... they left notes and things that told a story, advancing it piece by piece. And then to come across the infected and realize who they were...
Ish is a great little Easter egg
The part where you were talking about revenge and the realistic (per the circumstances that these characters live in) and beautiful insight that you have about why someone would even consider revenge and what we would do if we found ourselves in that same predicament makes me excited about your insights on season 2 if they go in the direction I think they are.
Eloquent response to the comment about infantilizing. And your final thoughts about communicating who you are watching with, I completely agree, it doesn't even need to be said because this show just influences and brings that part out of people if you even have a portion of sympathy. It's so well done~
Thank you for highlighting Henry's including Sam in his communication, I didn't notice that the first time around, that's beautiful.
I love how much this show pulls me out of the black and white and forces me into the grey. And how much it makes me think about things.
I think the show was interesting because it humanized Kathleen even though it also made her a villain. The writers made a point of humanizing her by showing her sadness about her brother's death. Then, contrasted that with her willingness to kill an uninfected and innocent child. This makes her different than any other character we've seen. All the other characters ,who have killed children regretted it.
Thank you for watching this show with us, even though it can be difficult.
I feel like you are someone who truly understands the true complexity and moral conflict and emotional depth and meaning of this show - it is validating to watch as some one who also loves this story so much and amazing to learn from your perspective
What also happens is that the show (and game) primes you for "this character gets introduced, and then they die", which desensitizes you from trying to form a relationship with the next person to show up, which is exactly how the characters feel.
The moment I watched the episode I knew that your reaction was gonna be priceless! I always watch these episodes during daytime precisely because of all the emotions they can evoke. I can process them better and then I just go to sleep at night kinda "cleaned up" from all the rollercoaster of feelings 😗
Not sure if you noticed (not at that part) but when Henry looks out the window you see the orange in the building across from him reflect in the window so it appears across his eyes in the same way he gave Sam his hero face paint. Henry is Sam's hero.
I love that you noticed this!
@@the.truth.doctor I actually had to be told it, lol! I missed it on first watch.
That's interesting. I definately didn't notice that.
I came as fast as I could, I was waiting for this reaction
Wow thank you so much!!
I very much enjoy your videos as companion pieces for the episodes. It's such an amazing, but dark show and your analysis and commentary is very insightful for understanding the characters even better. Thanks!
Bill and frank was a true watershed moment.. in terms of translating a game to the screen this was even better...this was jaw droppingly amazing.... Tbh can say that for most episodes..each one has that feel..
Although some of these events take place a little bit differently in the game, you touched on the point of needing to process, which is remarkable. I never thought that just might be the reason those who watch this, or have played the games, have built such a community and connection with each other and the content. Having to discuss these moments and curiosity of how others reacted or took them in, to be able to express our own thoughts abd work them. These aren't gratuitous moments for the sake of them, but they do build to something and are very heavy in the lore/world being built and story told.
This makes me think of times when I played part 2 and had to stop after moments and take a day or two break, or call someone just ti talk to them and seek out ppl who were playing it at the same time I was. It's not just the memories and personalization that can happen, but the connection with the characters as you become them and have agency over them as you're playing this story bringing it to life, it all compounds and hits hard. This game, and now I'm certain the show will to, have garnered so many think pieces and analyzations for a reason. The most profound thing is that there isn't really a wrong or right with them, mostly perspective and understanding. I'm enjoying you're journey through the show and insight being given to me. Looking forward to the last few, and as always, stay great!!!!
👏👏 Beautifully put. This is exactly how I feel and why I love watching reactions and participating online in fandoms
The difficult to process what is meant by Henry saying "What did I do?" because of the fact that he just shot his younger brother. But he also was wondering about his actions when it comes to Kathleen's brother, Michael, which he already had great guilt over and at that moment possibly sending a great man to his death for nothing.
The analysis found here.... for this series... is... stunning...
BUT for this episode... humanity itself...
is being peeled back... meaningful layer, by layers of meaning...
and illuminated like nothing else... Extraordinary. Tears.
The way you broke it down made me cry more because I put myself in their positions
Great reaction and analysis as always. Really loved you pointing out how Henry did not agency from Sam, specifically when Ellie asked Sam's age.
I don't normally tear up when I watch this show alone. But when I watch your videos the raw emotions hit harder, I be at work just sobbing 😭
14:55 I have listened to the HBO podcast. The directors noted that when doing children there is a tendency to make them too old or too young. The phrasing they used to describe the teenage years that Ellie is experiencing is a "fuck you"/"tuck me in" period of life. Where they are rebelling and trying to experience their independence but still have a need to be cared for and be a kid.
Personally I think you have done a wonderful job of getting these characters, partly because they are so well written, allowing you to treat them as authentic humans subject to all the psychological dynamics that your profession enables you to examine. The other aspect, I do consider you a good and insightful psychologist.
Lastly, just want to express my gratitude for covering the important topic of enabling and empowering communities, such as deaf culture, to act as agents rather than doing things on their behalf.
I played the game so I knew roughly how things were going to go with Sam and Henry, and they did follow it pretty closely, so I thought I was steeled enough to handle it. I wasn't. Especially now, in the years between playing the game and seeing the show, I have seen sudden violent death happen not a foot away from me, and the acting in this episode was very raw and authentic feeling. I am okay now, but I wasn't for a few days after. Glad that you release these a little later in the week so we have some time to process first. Thank you.
I always love listening to your commentary about these phenomenal pieces of media, pointing out details I wouldn't normally notice while giving us an even deeper insight of the physcology of these incredibly written characters, great video as always
Perhaps the humanity of these episodes is I can see myself in each of them. And I shouldn't be afraid of that.
14:33 Thank you for addressing this. Ellie is still a child through and through I agree. That comment is so wrong wtf....
I really enjoy these videos. Keep up the good work :)
I feel that, besides the fact that she's basically still a child, Ellie tries to play and engage and bond with Sam in the way she does because she feels deeply protective of him and wants him to feel safe. She sees this younger and objectively more vulnerable child and willingly takes on the role of big sister. Which makes what comes so incredibly heartbreaking.
You and Georgia Dow are my favorite reactors to this show about the human condition. I always look foward to these
Playing the game I was heart broken and years later and having this show opened more wounds from my trama between the years
I've now watched the reactions of five episodes and I'm absolutely thrilled. Your explanations are great and very informative. I'm learning a lot, understanding a lot more and realizing how much I've seen alike.
Now I'm really excited to see how you explain my favorite passage in the next episode. It tears me up inside whenever I see it.
I’m so grateful for these videos. Thank you; though, I skipped to the end then back to the beginning just to get that scene over with. Love the show, but sometimes it really hurts to watch.
As a player of the games, and enjoying the show, the world of The Last of Us holds no punches. It truly helps to have discussions though, which I feel is the most remarkable thing about both.
When you mentioned Sam getting onto the bed, it sparked a thought. They no longer live in a world where you take your shoes and clothing off to go to sleep, because anything can happen. It's really the tiny details.
Thank you so much for your reactions. I've been watching this show in such a different light than any other show. You make so many small yet very important things clear and connect so many things that have been said or have been done in previous episodes with those that follow. And it's that connecting the dots that make this show so much deeper and real than I otherwise would have thought and experienced.
Well, I don't know about anyone else, but I think you're brilliant. There are a lot of therapists in my family so I know the gig pretty well. What I really appreciate is that you gently mix your professionalism with your personal reaction and your artistic appreciation. I imagine you're also quite a writer.
i have played this game to completion at least 8 to 10 time. i play it at least once a year. and the one thing that i love that they did with the show is that they are showing use all sides of the character. showed us Kathleen and her story, they extended Bill and franks story and giving them a true happy ending, or at least a happy ending for the world they are in. expanding on henry and Sam People sometimes like to think that because this is a "Zombie" Show, that there should be more Zombies. but this show and even the game isnt about Zombies, its about the human condition, relationships and the connections between them. They are showing us that not all the "Bad Guys" are actually bad, at least not through there eyes
Also i love your channel
I really hope both bella and pedro get emmy nominations from this show. They're both greatl.
Bella deserves an Emmy just for her reaction to Henry shooting himself. Incredible acting right there
This was another heart breaking episode. Hearing Henry take his life but focusing on Elie watching it happen was painful. Living in this world it is likely Elie has seen people die, maybe end their life but from her reaction it is possible this is the first time it is someone she has a real connection with. Her talk about her blood healing was just as painful, partially cause of the trope of superblood that can cure anything, but her learning that it doesn't work hurts more. If Joel gets infected than she has no way to help him and now she understands this to be true. I honestly wonder if she is starting to doubt that she can help save anyone even if they find these doctors. The fireflies believe so but we never saw any medical equipment or labs for them to test. Only a belief that they can find a cure and like Joel said, we heard that before. Just because she hasn't turned in to a monster doesn't mean she is immune, it could be just a genetic mutation or some type of birth defect in her brain that prevents the fungus taking hold. One thing the game never answered was how she was resistant and I am curious if this show will have an answer.
Okay Doc, I'm really enjoying your perspective on these scenes. You're making me think about things that never crossed my mind. And then you go and start accurately predicting what characters are thinking before they say it (Kathleen's whole thing with what's the point). Not bad Doctor. Fine, I'll subscribe. You got me.
The Doc gets it. Love these breakdowns.
Great commentary doctor, I appreciate the time you took to explain everything. Take care.
I’m so loving these. Your insights are making the show that much better. Thanks
So glad you played that full scene..