Exploring Iconic Locations in The Last of Us: Season 2

The Aquarium: A Symbol of Contradiction

As HBO's The Last of Us season 2 prepares to dive into the highly contentious moments from The Last of Us Part II, it is set to showcase the iconic aquarium located on Seattle's coastline. This location holds significant emotional weight for both Abby and Ellie as they navigate through its smaller, yet impactful areas such as the gift shop and the shark exhibit. For Abby, the aquarium serves as a poignant backdrop to unravel her tangled relationship with Owen, delving into both their past romance and the aftermath of their breakup. It is here that Abby shares her pursuit of vengeance for her father's death with Owen, setting the stage for her relentless quest for retribution.

Abbey takes in the massive aquarium in The Last of Us Part 2 with Owen in front of her

In stark contrast, the aquarium becomes a chilling setting for Ellie's ruthless confrontation with Mel and Owen. Driven by her overwhelming rage and grief over the loss of Joel, Ellie's actions are portrayed as instinctual and raw, emphasizing the depth of her emotional turmoil. The haunting sequence of events unfolds as Ellie grapples with the consequences of her actions, showcasing the complex and conflicting nature of her character. By weaving the aquarium scenes into the narrative, The Last of Us season 2 has the potential to draw a compelling parallel between Abby and Ellie, amplifying the intricate themes of loss, revenge, and redemption.

Abby standing over a bleeding Ellie in The Last Of Us Part II video game

The Museum: A Glimpse of Joy Amidst Tragedy

One of the most beloved sequences from The Last of Us Part II, the museum flashback, is poised to play a pivotal role in season 2. This poignant moment captures the rare instance of joy in Ellie's tumultuous journey, as Joel takes her to a science and history museum for her birthday. The heartwarming scenes unfold as Joel and Ellie immerse themselves in the exhibits, culminating in a touching moment as Ellie listens to a cassette recording of a rocket launch. This flashback serves as a poignant reminder of the profound bond between Joel and Ellie, offering a glimpse into the cherished relationship that was tragically cut short.

Joel and Ellie look at a dinosaur skeleton in The Last of Us Part II

The inclusion of this heartfelt flashback early in the storyline serves to underscore Ellie's grief and the depth of her loss following Joel's demise. It provides a poignant exploration of Ellie's emotional turmoil, shedding light on her unprocessed feelings and unresolved conflicts with Joel. Furthermore, this pivotal scene presents an opportunity for fans to delve deeper into the dynamic performances of the actors, further enriching the emotional resonance of the series.

Pedro Pascal as Joel and Bella Ramsey as Ellie in a scene from The Last of Us.

The Theater: A Violent Culmination of Revenge

In a stark departure from the poignant moments at the museum, the theater emerges as a violent and pivotal location in The Last of Us Part II. This setting serves as the backdrop for the intense rivalry between Abby and Ellie, culminating in a brutal one-on-one confrontation. It is here that their individual quests for revenge converge, leading to a visceral and consequential showdown that shapes the trajectory of their intertwined fates.

Ellie and Joel in The Last of Us episode 3

The theater sequence encapsulates the raw brutality of their rivalry, as Abby's actions establish her as a formidable adversary to Ellie and her loved ones. The gripping melee that unfolds backstage serves as a testament to the unyielding cycle of revenge that permeates their harrowing journey. This pivotal moment not only showcases the depth of their animosity but also serves as a crucial decision-making juncture for Ellie, shaping the course of her relentless pursuit of retribution.

Ellie wears an astronaut's headgear as she smiles at Joel in The Last of Us Part II.