The Last of Us doesn’t exactly scream “rom-com.” In fact, it usually screams… a lot. But between the infected ambushes and the emotional wreckage, Season 2 throws us a curveball: a love story. And not just any love story – Ellie and Dina’s relationship shines like a flicker of candlelight in a cave full of Clickers. It’s sweet. It’s awkward. It’s real. And most importantly, it’s something this harsh world desperately needs.
A Slow Dance Before the Storm
Let’s start with the dance, shall we?
In the very first episode of Season 2, aptly titled Future Days, the show wastes no time tugging at our hearts. The winter dance at Jackson – complete with string lights and soft music – gives us a glimpse of what normal teen life might look like if the apocalypse took a night off.
Ellie and Dina meet in a swirl of flirtation, tension, and maybe a little whiskey in the air. It all leads to that kiss. Yes, the one from the game. The one that got Ellie flustered and fans cheering.
But then, bam. Reality crashes the party. Some drunk hurls a homophobic insult at them. Joel steps in, shoving the guy and igniting even more drama. Still, the moment between Ellie and Dina sticks. It lingers like the warmth of a fire after the embers die. The showrunners didn’t just adapt this scene from the game – they elevated it, giving it space to breathe and punch.
Patrols, Banter, and the Build-Up
As the season moves forward, so does their connection. Sure, they’re technically out patrolling for infected, but let’s be honest: they’re also falling in love. Slowly. Naturally. Adorably.
- Ellie cracks a joke. Dina rolls her eyes, but smiles.
- They swap stories. Some funny. Some heartbreaking.
- They face danger together, especially when a new breed of infected (say hello to the horrifying Stalker) makes an appearance.
Even in these life-or-death moments, their chemistry simmers. The flirtation doesn’t vanish in the face of fear. Instead, it anchors them.
Not Just for Hardcore Fans
Now, if you played the game, you’ve probably been waiting for this. And yes, the show sticks the landing. But what’s genius is how accessible Ellie and Dina’s romance feels even if you’ve never touched a controller.
The series walks a tightrope. It stays true to its source material while gently welcoming in newcomers who may be surprised (in the best way) by Ellie’s relationship.
There’s no big announcement. No dramatic “coming out” arc. It just is. And that quiet normalcy? That’s powerful.
Missed Weed Farm, Same Sweet Chemistry
Okay, yes. The game had that hilarious weed-farm discovery scene. The one with the joints, the giggles, and the subtle flirtation. Sadly, that part didn’t make it to screen. But does the magic suffer?
Not even a little. Because the core of what made Ellie and Dina click is still here: honesty, awkwardness, and emotional vulnerability.
Every shared glance feels loaded. Every shoulder bump says more than a monologue. And while the cannabis might be gone, the high of young love remains.
Love as Resistance
In a world as bleak as The Last of Us, love feels revolutionary. Ellie and Dina’s bond becomes more than just a subplot. It becomes a symbol.
- A symbol of what’s still worth fighting for.
- A reminder that joy can survive, even when nothing else does.
- A punch of color in an otherwise grey landscape.
Their story isn’t just about representation. It’s about hope. And hope, in this universe, is the rarest resource of all.
Why We’re All Rooting for Them
Honestly, it’s hard not to fall for these two. They argue like real teens. They laugh like best friends. They carry trauma, but still choose to open up.
Their romance doesn’t feel forced. It isn’t there just to check a box. It’s messy and lovely and perfectly paced.
And maybe, just maybe, that’s why we need it. Because in a show full of blood, grief, and loss, watching Ellie get to feel something other than pain? That’s everything.
Holding On to the Warmth
So what’s next for Ellie and Dina? That’s a question for the rest of the season. But for now, let’s savor the warmth.
Savor the blush on Ellie’s face after a joke. The twinkle in Dina’s eyes when she teases her. The quiet understanding between two young women just trying to find something beautiful in a world gone mad.
Because sure, the infected are terrifying. And yes, revenge will come knocking soon enough. But for now? Let’s dance.
