Warning: The following article contains important spoilers for The Last of Us episode 5, “Endure and Survive.”
Henry and Sam are getting their first full episode this week in 'Endure and Survive.' After all, The Last of Us is proving that it's best not to become too attached to characters.
With every episode of TLOU, the series draws closer to becoming a true masterpiece in storytelling. Once regarded as the best-of-the-best among video game adaptations, it has transcended the genre and is becoming a masterclass in how to handle a cross-media adaptation.
Each episode has been characterized by heartbreak. More specifically, it was one soul-crushing death after another. Tess made the ultimate sacrifice after she was infected. Episode three brought us to tears with Bill and Frank's tragic and heartfelt love story. Bryan's end while pleading Joel for his life was enthralling.
Those who meet Joel and Ellie and are vulnerable to all of the consequences, audiences were prepared for the worst. While our two protagonists made it through Kansas City, Henry and Sam had a different story.
What happened?
Kathleen and Perry received their expected comeuppance in the final battle with the horde of clickers. The clickers erupted from their underground FEDRA prison as Ellie, Henry, and Sam fled the Kathleen's army. Then a gigantic, near-indestructible bloater emerged from the hole and decapitated Perry. Just when Kathleen had the drop on Henry and Sam, a clicker pounced, killing her within moments.
Joel and Ellie appeared to have escaped the violence and recruited two additional members of their makeshift family in TLOU where happy endings do not exist. Henry was forced to shoot his brother because he was overwhelmed by guilt.
Joel and Ellie buried their newfound acquaintances in the final moments. Ellie leaves a note on Sam's grave, simply reading, "I'm sorry."
Due to the Super Bowl, episode five aired on Friday, but TLOU will re-start its programming next week, with episode six coming on Sunday at 9pm ET/8pm CT.