The Last of Us Episode 5: Something in the Air
3 minute readPublished: Monday, May 12, 2025 at 2:00 am
The Last of Us Episode 5 Recap: Airborne Cordyceps and a Revenge Quest
"The Last of Us" episode 5, "Something in the Air," dives deeper into the complexities of the second season, focusing on Ellie and Dina's relentless pursuit of revenge in Seattle. This installment introduces a terrifying new threat: an airborne strain of the cordyceps fungus, capable of infecting anyone who breathes it in. This adds a chilling layer of danger to the already perilous world.
The episode sees Ellie and Dina facing off against "smart infected" who work together and set traps, showcasing the evolving nature of the cordyceps threat. While the action sequences are intense, the narrative primarily centers on Ellie's single-minded goal of avenging Joel's death. This focus, however, makes the story feel more straightforward, and at times, thinner than the cross-country journey of season one.
Dina's past trauma is explored, revealing her own history of violence and the cycle of revenge. Despite the dangers and the potential for a future with Dina, Ellie remains fixated on her quest. The episode also features a harrowing sequence in a hospital, where Ellie confronts the airborne infected and encounters Nora, Abby's sidekick. This encounter highlights Ellie's immunity and raises questions about Abby's actions.
The episode's closing moments offer a poignant glimpse into Ellie's past with Joel, reminding viewers of the emotional core of the story. While the episode delivers thrilling action and introduces new threats, it also underscores the destructive nature of revenge and the difficult choices faced in a post-apocalyptic world.
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