The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 4 Review: Does Ellie and Dina’s Seattle Adventure Redefine HBO’s Masterpiece?

HBO’s The Last of Us Season 2 continues to captivate audiences, and The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 4 Review is buzzing with praise and critique. Titled “Day One,” this episode follows Ellie (Bella Ramsey) and Dina (Isabela Merced) as they venture into a ravaged Seattle, delivering a mix of heart-pounding action, emotional depth, and stunning visuals.

Critics and fans alike are weighing in on whether this installment pushes the series to new heights or stumbles in its adaptation of the beloved video game. Here’s a deep dive into the reviews, highlighting what makes this episode stand out and where it falls short.

What Makes Episode 4 a Standout in Season 2?

Critics are raving about the chemistry between Ellie and Dina, which many consider the episode’s heartbeat. Push Square calls it a high point, noting that “Isabela Merced’s understanding and cautious Dina plays off excellently with Bella Ramsey’s brash Ellie”. This dynamic drives the narrative, balancing Ellie’s thirst for revenge with Dina’s grounding presence.

The episode’s set design also earns high marks. A moss-covered tank and dilapidated record stores create a hauntingly beautiful post-apocalyptic Seattle, with HBO flexing its budget to deliver “post-apocalyptic eye candy”. Rotten Tomatoes reviews highlight moments of “pure horror” and “fantastic flashes” from both new and existing characters, particularly in a subway sequence that’s been described as “incredible”.

Bella Ramsey’s performance continues to shine, with Forbes noting that “this version of Ellie is finally growing on me,” especially in a poignant scene where she plays A-Ha’s “Take on Me” on guitar. This moment, described as a “rare and fleeting moment of calm,” resonates deeply with viewers, showcasing the show’s ability to find grace amid chaos.

How Does Isaac’s Introduction Impact the Story?

The introduction of Isaac, played by Jeffrey Wright, adds a new layer to the narrative. Reviews praise Wright’s “intimidatingly quiet presence,” with Push Square noting that his flashback scenes provide intriguing backstory to a character who was underdeveloped in the game.

Rotten Tomatoes adds that Isaac’s transformation of “a gesture of love into a weapon of hate” underscores the show’s recurring themes of morality and retribution.

However, not all reviews agree on the execution. Some feel the episode tries to juggle too much, with IndieWire suggesting it “can have a lot going on, but it can also feel empty”. The focus on setting up the war between the W.L.F. and Seraphites, while ambitious, leaves some plot points underdeveloped, raising questions about pacing as the season nears its end.

Does Episode 4 Surpass the Game?

A bold claim from Push Square asserts that Episode 4 is “the first time the show surpasses the game”. The episode recreates key moments from The Last of Us Part II, but some adaptations don’t land as powerfully. Fans on X, like @sighaboutlife, note that the show is “finding its footing” by moving away from constant game comparisons, allowing the story to breathe on its own.

However, not all fans are convinced. Some IMDb user reviews criticize the episode for feeling too much like a video game, with one stating it “feels like a video game, and not in a good way”. Despite this, the episode holds a strong 7.8/10 on IMDb based on over 4,000 user ratings, making it the second-highest-rated episode of Season 2.

Why Are Fans and Critics Divided?

The episode’s reception isn’t without controversy. While critics give Season 2 a 95% on Rotten Tomatoes, the audience score has dipped to 51%, partly due to review-bombing targeting Bella Ramsey’s casting as Ellie.

Collider reports that this issue extends beyond Rotten Tomatoes, with Metacritic user scores also reflecting discontent. Despite this, IMDb’s high rating for Episode 4 suggests a strong core fanbase remains invested.

X posts reflect a mix of enthusiasm and critique. @WesleyW626 calls it “powerful and storytelling at its finest,” while @EconomicTimes highlights the buzz around the episode’s reception. The divide often stems from expectations set by the game, with some fans feeling the show rushes key moments, while others appreciate its fresh take.

What’s Next for The Last of Us Season 2?

With only three episodes left, reviews suggest HBO faces a challenge in sticking the landing. Push Square expresses cautious optimism, noting that “we’re not entirely convinced yet that the show will stick the landing, but with each new episode we get just a bit closer”. The emotional weight of Ellie and Dina’s journey, combined with Isaac’s looming presence, sets the stage for a potentially explosive conclusion.

Some Closing Thoughts:

The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 4 Review underscores a series that’s unafraid to take risks, blending stellar performances, gripping action, and moral complexity. While it doesn’t satisfy every fan, its ability to evoke strong reactions proves its impact.

As the season progresses, all eyes are on how HBO will tie together its ambitious narrative.

Catch new episodes Sundays at 9 p.m. ET on HBO and Max, and join the conversation about whether this episode truly redefines the series.