Ellie's fascination with guns is driven by her desire to be self-sufficient and capable of defending herself in the post-apocalyptic world.
The encounter with a previously attacked enemy causes Ellie to question her own violent impulses and highlights that not all enemies are inherently evil, but products of a harsh and survival-driven world.
Deep dives
Ellie's fascination with guns
Ellie is infatuated with guns and is drawn to their power. She sees them as a symbol of survival and capability in the post-apocalyptic world. Through her questions to Joel about killing and shooting, she demonstrates her desire to be self-sufficient and capable of defending herself. Her fascination with guns is not out of fear, but rather a desire to walk the path of power like Joel does.
The humanization of the enemy
In an effort to ground violence and showcase the humanity in every character, the podcast episode explores the moment when Ellie and Joel encounter an enemy they previously attacked. They realize the person they hurt is just as human as they are. This encounter affects Ellie deeply, making her question her own violent impulses. It reminds the audience that not all enemies are inherently evil, but rather products of a harsh and survival-driven world.
The bond between Joel and Ellie deepens
Joel and Ellie's relationship continues to evolve as they face challenges together. Joel starts to let his guard down and embraces his role as a father figure to Ellie. He recognizes her strength and gives her a gun as a symbol of trust and empowerment. This marks a significant turning point in their dynamic, as they find joy and connection in their shared experiences, even amidst the harsh realities of their journey.
Host Troy Baker and Showrunners Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann walk through Episode 4, exploring key developments in Ellie and Joel’s relationship. They discuss a major antagonist of the show and tease Joel’s dark past. HBO’s The Last of Us podcast is produced by HBO and Pineapple Street Studios.