“The Last of Us” returned in April 2025, two years after the release of the first season. The second season of this apocalyptic drama is based on half of the 2020 Naughty Dog game, continuing the story five years later. Creator of the game, Neil Druckmann, and showrunner, Craig Maizin, have both returned to work on the project.

 While “The Last of Us” season two is only halfway done, it is incredibly successful in its characters, directing, and production design. The sets, makeup, and clothes make the show come to life. Scenes go from being close and warm to wide and cold, representing tonal shifts throughout the show. The infected creatures in the show are as terrifying as ever, as the practical effects used on them make them grotesquely beautiful.

The best performances in the show are given by Bella Ramsey as Ellie, Pedro Pascal as Joel, and Kaitlyn Dever as Abby. Bella Ramsey portrays Ellie’s complex emotions and mental status with a level of care that shows how they truly understand their character. Similarly, Pedro Pascal gives an amazing performance as he shows Joel’s struggle to navigate his familial relationship with Ellie. Kaitlyn Dever gives a cold but rageful performance as Abby and gives monologues with such talent that the audience is hanging onto her every word.

Season two also explores complex themes of grief, revenge, and perspective. This story is important to many people because of these themes, along with its portrayal of LGBTQ+ individuals. Bella Ramsey, an openly non-binary actor, portrays Ellie, and Isabela Merced, a queer actress, plays Dina. The two portray a sapphic relationship in a post-apocalyptic environment. 

Season two unfortunately falls short in its pacing. While they are only midway through the season, more needs to be done with the story. Season one had a faster pace that allowed for the audience to feel like the characters were working hard for their journey to succeed.  This pacing is almost non-existent in season two. The second episode of the season is a masterpiece in storytelling, but the rest of the season, at this point, is slow, with little to nothing happening. 

Overall, the first half of this season is good, while it has its flaws it is still able to achieve the charm that the first season had. This season will only contain part of the story from the second game, but viewers don’t have to worry because the show has been renewed for a third season.