Unveiling Ellie’s Heartfelt “Take on Me” Moment in The Last of Us Season 2 Episode 4: A Scene Breakdown

In The Last of Us Season 2 Episode 4, HBO delivers a moment that resonates deeply with fans of both the show and Naughty Dog’s acclaimed video game. Ellie’s tender performance of A-ha’s “Take on Me” in a dilapidated Seattle music shop is a poignant highlight, blending raw emotion, character development, and a nod to the game’s legacy.

This article dives into a detailed scene breakdown and analysis, exploring its significance, execution, and impact on Ellie and Dina’s evolving relationship. From the haunting acoustics to the unspoken love in Dina’s gaze, we uncover why this moment is a standout in the series.

What Makes Ellie’s “Take on Me” Performance So Iconic?

Ellie’s rendition of “Take on Me” in The Last of Us Season 2 Episode 4 is a near shot-for-shot recreation of an optional scene from The Last of Us Part II. As Ellie (Bella Ramsey) and Dina (Isabela Merced) seek shelter in Valiant Music Shop while en route to Seattle, Ellie discovers a pristine acoustic guitar sealed in its case.

She tunes it and begins strumming the 1985 A-ha hit, transforming the upbeat pop classic into a somber, heartfelt ballad. The scene, bathed in dappled light filtering through a hole in the wall, captures a fleeting moment of peace in a post-apocalyptic world.

This moment is iconic because it balances fidelity to the game with fresh emotional depth. In the game, players must explore the music shop to trigger the scene, making it a rewarding discovery. The show ensures this moment is unmissable, amplifying its emotional weight for a broader audience. Bella Ramsey’s earnest vocals and Isabela Merced’s expressive reactions create a chemistry that feels authentic, making the scene a fan favorite.

How Does the Scene Reflect Ellie’s Grief and Connection to Joel?

The guitar in The Last of Us Season 2 Episode 4 is more than an instrument—it’s a bridge to Ellie’s past. Joel, her late father figure, taught her to play, and every chord she strums carries his memory. After performing “Take on Me,” Ellie remarks that Joel’s lessons “paid off,” a subtle acknowledgment of his enduring influence. This line, paired with Ramsey’s vulnerable delivery, underscores Ellie’s complicated grief following Joel’s brutal death earlier in the season.

Unlike the game, where Ellie briefly plays Pearl Jam’s “Future Days” before switching to “Take on Me,” the show omits the former to streamline the narrative. This choice shifts the focus to the romantic tension between Ellie and Dina but still honors Joel’s legacy through Ellie’s guitar skills. The scene becomes a tribute to Joel, showing how Ellie channels her loss into music, finding solace amidst her quest for revenge.

Why Is Dina’s Reaction So Pivotal to the Scene?

Dina’s presence elevates the scene in The Last of Us Season 2 Episode 4 from a musical interlude to a defining moment in their relationship. As Ellie sings, Dina watches from across the room, her eyes welling with tears.

Isabela Merced’s performance conveys a mix of awe, affection, and sorrow, hinting at Dina’s growing love for Ellie and her empathy for Ellie’s pain. Fans on X noted Dina’s emotional response as a raw depiction of music’s power to touch the heart.

Director Kate Herron emphasized that this moment marks a turning point for Dina, who realizes she’s in love with Ellie. Unlike the game, where their romance progresses faster, the show crafts a slow-burn dynamic, making Dina’s tearful reaction a culmination of unspoken feelings. This authenticity, supported by intimacy coordinator Katherine Kadler, ensures the scene feels earned and deeply moving.

How Does the Scene’s Cinematography Enhance Its Impact?

The visual execution of the “Take on Me” scene in The Last of Us Season 2 Episode 4 is meticulous, with cinematographer Catherine Goldschmidt and director Kate Herron recreating the game’s aesthetic.

The Valiant Music Shop, filled with vinyl records and Pearl Jam posters, is lit by soft, natural light streaming through a broken wall, creating a serene yet melancholic atmosphere. The camera lingers on Ellie’s fingers on the fretboard and Dina’s expressive face, emphasizing their emotional connection.

Goldschmidt noted the importance of replicating the game’s framing to honor its fans, while Herron used subtle techniques—like a lantern partially obscuring Dina’s face—to immerse viewers in Ellie’s perspective. These choices make the scene feel intimate and immersive, contrasting the horror of Seattle’s warring factions and infected hordes that dominate the episode.

What Do the Lyrics of “Take on Me” Reveal About Ellie and Dina’s Story?

The lyrics of “Take on Me” in The Last of Us Season 2 Episode 4 take on new meaning in this context. Lines like “Needless to say / I’m odds and ends / But I’ll be stumblin’ away / Slowly learnin’ that life is OK” reflect Ellie’s resilience and hope despite her grief. The phrase “I’ll be comin’ for your love, okay” hints at the budding romance with Dina, foreshadowing their intimate moment later in the episode.

Stripped of its synth-pop origins, the acoustic cover amplifies the song’s emotional core, aligning with the show’s theme of finding light in darkness. This choice resonates with fans, who praised the scene on X for capturing the “silent love and loss” between Ellie and Dina, making it a pivotal moment in their journey.

Why Does This Scene Stand Out in the Series?

The “Take on Me” moment in The Last of Us Season 2 Episode 4 is a masterclass in balancing adaptation and innovation. It pays homage to the game while deepening the emotional stakes for TV audiences.

Some Closing Thoughts:

Bella Ramsey and Isabela Merced’s performances, combined with thoughtful direction and cinematography, create a scene that’s both a nostalgic Easter egg and a fresh exploration of love and loss.

As Ellie and Dina navigate Seattle’s dangers, this quiet interlude reminds us of the human connections that make The Last of Us so compelling.

Whether you’re a gamer or a newcomer, this scene is a testament to the show’s ability to weave heart-wrenching moments into a brutal world.

Share your thoughts on Ellie’s performance below, and let’s discuss how The Last of Us Season 2 Episode 4 continues to redefine storytelling in video game adaptations.