Episode 6 of The Last of Us Season 2, titled “The Price”, stands out as one of the most emotional and introspective chapters of the series. Directed by Neil Druckmann, the episode dives deep into Ellie’s past through a series of birthday flashbacks spanning from age 15 to 19 in Jackson, Wyoming. These scenes reveal the bond—and growing cracks—between Ellie and Joel.
A standout moment is when Joel surprises Ellie with a trip to a space museum, where she experiences a simulated Apollo rocket launch. This heartwarming scene, adapted from the original video game, evokes a rare sense of joy in an otherwise bleak world.
However, the emotional warmth soon gives way to tension. Ellie gradually begins to piece together the truth Joel had kept from her: the events at Salt Lake City, where Joel killed members of the Fireflies to save her—effectively destroying the hope of finding a cure. The revelation leaves Ellie devastated, feeling betrayed and stripped of purpose.
The episode’s climax takes place on the front porch of Joel’s house, where Ellie confronts him and demands the truth. Joel finally admits what he did and confesses that he has no regrets. Ellie, visibly shaken, responds that while she’s unsure she can ever forgive him, she’s willing to try.
The episode ends with Ellie returning to the theater after killing Nora, a brutal reminder that her path of revenge is far from over. By blending flashbacks and present-day scenes, the story masterfully explores the layered and painful relationship between Joel and Ellie, setting the stage for what’s to come.
With phenomenal performances by Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey, Episode 6 has been praised for its emotional depth, exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and the devastating consequences of choices in a post-apocalyptic world.
