This article contains spoilers for Episode 3 of Season 2 of “The Last of Us.”

Opening Scene Analysis

In a deeply emotional scene from the opening of Episode 3, Tommy, portrayed by Gabriel Luna, mourns his brother Joel (Pedro Pascal), whose body is displayed in a makeshift morgue in Jackson. The poignant line, “Give Sarah my love,” captures Tommy’s profound grief as he remembers both Joel and their deceased sister, Sarah, who once repaired Joel’s broken watch as a birthday gift, symbolizing the loss that haunts the brothers.

Luna’s Personal Connection

Luna drew from his personal experiences with grief, recalling the passing of his grandfather to bring authenticity to the scene. “I remember being the only one in that chapel… that’s what I had in my mind when I was shooting the scene,” he shared. This poignant recollection allowed him to channel real emotions, enhancing the depth of Tommy’s farewell.

Episode Themes

Contrasting with the action-heavy Episode 2, Episode 3 offers a reflective and introspective narrative. While Episode 2 depicts unrestrained violence and chaos—evident through Tommy’s fiery confrontation with the bloater and Abby’s menacing actions—Episode 3 emphasizes the weight of emotional loss and the complex choices facing the characters.

Behind the Scenes

Following the airing of Episode 2, Luna experienced an overwhelming reaction from fans. “It’s been a tornado of a couple of days,” he remarked, recalling the excitement and buzz surrounding the episode. The collaborative efforts of directors such as Mark Mylod and the creative minds behind the show, Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, were pivotal in shaping these crucial moments.

Tommy’s Role Evolution

Luna discussed the significant alterations made to Tommy’s character arc, particularly his absence during Joel’s death in the show, contrary to the video game. His input in reshaping the scene allowed for a more meaningful portrayal, highlighting Tommy’s emotional turmoil as he weighs his allegiances to his family and his community against personal desire for vengeance.

Character Dynamics and Themes of Forgiveness

A pivotal scene between Tommy and his wife, Maria, played by Rutina Wesley, showcases Tommy’s internal conflict between familial duty and the urge for revenge. Luna pointed out, “My responsibilities to my wife, to my son, to this city… supersede my desire to go and help with my brother.” The narrative navigates themes of forgiveness and the consequences of one’s choices, revealing a deeper understanding of love and sacrifice.

Cultural Representation

As a Mexican American actor, Luna emphasized the importance of representation in media. “I wasn’t going to play a narcotraficante,” he stated, expressing his desire to defy stereotypes and portray characters that contribute positively to diverse storytelling. His roles, including those in “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.” and “Terminator: Dark Fate,” reflect a commitment to representing a broader spectrum of experiences.

Conclusion

Luna’s depiction of Tommy in “The Last of Us” resonates with viewers, not only for its emotional depth and narrative intricacies but also for its exploration of human fragility and resilience amidst chaos. As the series unfolds, the ongoing themes of love, loss, and moral choices continue to captivate audiences, reaffirming the show’s place in contemporary television history.