Episode 7 of HBO’s “The Last of Us,” titled “Left Behind,” is a poignant flashback episode that primarily explores Ellie’s backstory, specifically her relationship with her best friend Riley while both were living in the FEDRA boarding school in Boston. The episode reveals how Ellie learned of her immunity and grapples with themes of love, loss, and the harsh realities of their post-apocalyptic world.
The Core of “Left Behind”: Love Amidst the Apocalypse
“Left Behind” pivots away from Joel’s immediate condition to illuminate Ellie’s character through a deeply personal lens. The episode unfolds primarily within a single, extended flashback, showcasing the bond between Ellie and Riley Abel, a young girl who mysteriously reappears after being absent for several weeks. Riley, now a Firefly, takes Ellie on a clandestine adventure to an abandoned mall, a relic of the world before the infection.
The episode isn’t just about childhood fun. It’s about the blossoming of a powerful connection, a connection that transcends friendship and hints at romantic feelings between the two girls. As they explore the mall, engaging in playful antics like riding a carousel, playing arcade games, and donning silly masks in a photo booth, a clear affection develops. This joy, however, is tragically short-lived.
Their exploration eventually leads them to a group of infected, and a desperate struggle ensues. Both Ellie and Riley are bitten. Knowing their fate, they make a pact to stay together and “wait it out,” facing the inevitable turning. Of course, viewers know Ellie doesn’t turn, revealing the origin of her immunity. This devastating conclusion solidifies the episode’s central theme: the crushing weight of loss and the fleeting nature of happiness in a world ravaged by the Cordyceps fungus.
Exploring Key Scenes and Moments
The mall setting is vital. It symbolizes a lost world, a world of normalcy and entertainment that Ellie and Riley can only experience vicariously. Each activity they engage in – the arcade game, the photo booth, the carousel – highlights the stark contrast between their present reality and the pre-apocalyptic life they never knew. The power outage at the mall serves as a literal and figurative representation of the fading hope and the ever-present darkness surrounding them.
The scene with the Halloween masks is particularly poignant. The masks allow them to momentarily escape their identities, to become someone else, to imagine a world where they aren’t defined by their circumstances. This escapism underscores their yearning for a life free from fear and the constant threat of infection.
Riley’s Departure and Return
Riley’s initial absence and subsequent return as a Firefly is crucial to understanding her character and her influence on Ellie. Her time with the Fireflies exposes Ellie to the idea of fighting for a better future, a concept that resonates deeply with her. Riley’s decision to show Ellie the mall can be interpreted as both a gift and a burden; it grants Ellie a moment of joy and connection but ultimately leads to unimaginable pain. Riley leaving FEDRA is a pivotal act that shows her commitment to a cause and her willingness to risk everything for what she believes in. This act clearly inspires Ellie.
The Bite and Its Aftermath
The attack by the infected is a brutal reminder of the ever-present danger. The scene is chaotic and frantic, effectively conveying the terror and desperation of the moment. The girls’ decision to stay together after being bitten is a testament to their bond and their refusal to face the horror of turning alone. This act of defiance, this choice to face death together, is the emotional core of the episode.
FAQs: Unpacking the Details of “Left Behind”
Here are some frequently asked questions about episode 7, providing further insight and context:
FAQ 1: Why is Ellie so important to Joel?
“Left Behind” provides a crucial context for understanding Joel’s connection to Ellie. He sees in her a chance to heal from his past trauma, particularly the loss of his own daughter. He sees her not just as cargo, but as someone he cares about. Ellie, in turn, is grieving over what happened to Riley, as the loss informs how she builds relationships and protects those she loves, as evidenced by how she prioritizes Joel’s safety and recovery.
FAQ 2: What is significant about Riley being a Firefly?
Riley’s involvement with the Fireflies introduces Ellie to the concept of resistance and fighting for a better world. This exposure plants a seed in Ellie’s mind, influencing her later actions and beliefs. It also contrasts with the oppressive control of FEDRA, highlighting the complexities and moral ambiguities of their world.
FAQ 3: What does the mall symbolize in the episode?
The abandoned mall is a potent symbol of the world before the outbreak. It represents a time of normalcy, consumerism, and carefree fun. The girls’ exploration of the mall is a bittersweet experience, a reminder of what has been lost and a glimpse into a past they never fully experienced.
FAQ 4: Does “Left Behind” exist as a separate game or DLC?
Yes, “Left Behind” was originally released as a downloadable content (DLC) expansion for “The Last of Us” video game. It is often included in remastered and definitive editions of the game. The DLC fleshed out Ellie’s backstory, and the HBO adaptation closely follows the original narrative.
FAQ 5: How does “Left Behind” impact the overall narrative of “The Last of Us”?
“Left Behind” significantly enhances the emotional depth and understanding of Ellie’s character. It provides crucial context for her resilience, her fear of being alone, and her determination to make her life meaningful. It underscores the profound impact of loss and the importance of human connection in a post-apocalyptic world.
FAQ 6: What is the significance of the photo booth scene?
The photo booth scene is a lighthearted and intimate moment between Ellie and Riley. It allows them to express themselves, experiment with identities, and capture a memory together. The photos serve as a tangible reminder of their bond and the fleeting joy they experienced.
FAQ 7: What kind of infected attacks Ellie and Riley?
The infected that attack Ellie and Riley are runners, the most common type of infected. Runners are newly infected individuals who still retain some semblance of their human form and can move relatively quickly. They are generally less dangerous than the later stages of infection, like Clickers or Bloaters, but they are still a significant threat, especially in groups.
FAQ 8: Why don’t they just amputate the infected limbs?
The Cordyceps fungus spreads incredibly rapidly throughout the body. Amputation, while potentially effective in certain cases, is generally considered ineffective due to the speed of the infection. By the time someone realizes they have been bitten, the fungus has likely already spread too far. This is explicitly stated in the series and the game.
FAQ 9: What are some differences between the game and the TV show’s version of “Left Behind”?
While the TV show is remarkably faithful to the game, there are minor differences. The duration of certain scenes might be altered, and some dialogue may be slightly adjusted. The overall story and emotional impact, however, remain largely the same. The show aims to enrich certain moments that were only implied in the game.
FAQ 10: How does “Left Behind” affect Ellie’s relationship with Joel?
The loss of Riley fuels Ellie’s deep-seated fear of abandonment and her fierce protectiveness of those she cares about. This understanding is crucial for appreciating the weight of her bond with Joel. She sees him as a surrogate father figure and is terrified of losing him.
FAQ 11: What does Riley mean by “Wait it out”?
“Wait it out” refers to their decision to stay together and face the inevitable progression of the infection. They choose to spend their final moments together rather than succumbing to fear and despair alone. It’s a pact, not a plan.
FAQ 12: What does “Endure and Survive” really mean in the context of the show?
“Endure and Survive” is the motto of the Fireflies. In the context of the episode, it’s ironic. Despite their attempts to endure and fight, Riley ultimately succumbs. However, it emphasizes the themes of resilience and the will to keep fighting for a better future, even in the face of overwhelming odds. Ellie carries this motto forward, embodying the spirit of perseverance in a world that constantly tests her limits.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Loss
“Left Behind” is a masterclass in storytelling, seamlessly weaving together moments of joy and heartbreak to create a profound and unforgettable experience. It enriches the viewer’s understanding of Ellie’s character, her motivations, and her enduring resilience. The episode underscores the importance of human connection in the face of unimaginable loss and solidifies its place as one of the most emotionally resonant installments of “The Last of Us.” The tragic outcome of Ellie and Riley’s adventure will shape Ellie’s character for the remainder of her journey.