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Joel’s Emotional The Last Of Us Return Broke Me (2×6 Review)

Television

Tessa Smith

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May 18, 2025

Joel’s Emotional The Last Of Us Return Broke Me (2×6 Review)

We knew this time would come, but that did not make Joel’s The Last Of Us return any less emotional. The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 6 review.

The Last Of Us season 2 episode 6 review recap

The Last Of Us season 2 episode 5 ended with a quick glimpse of Joel in what was clearly a flashback scene. Then, the teaser for this week’s episode showcased key sequences from the video games and I knew right then and there that this episode was going to break me.

The Last Of Us season 2 episode 6 is mostly flashback sequences, with only the end showing Ellie approaching the theater to meet up with Dina, Tommy, and Jesse after killing Nora. These revisit Ellie’s 15th, 16th, 17th, and 19th birthdays, as well as the last time she spoke with Joel before his untimely (and brutal) death.

Seeing Pedro Pascal Back As Joel Was Emotional

Getting to spend more time with Joel, and see once again just how much he cared for Ellie, was extremely difficult, but also cathartic in a way. After dying in such a brutal way, fans now get to see him (and Ellie) during happier times. She has lost the light in her eyes since he was killed, so it was nice to revisit a time before that.

Learning how much effort he put into making her birthdays special, even when she was being a moody and rebellious teenager and acting like she wanted nothing to do with it (something she surely regrets later on), adds deeper meaning to the bond between the two.

With the addition of Catherine O’Hara’s character, we have been able to learn a little bit more about what Joel is thinking in certain moments. This is important because you aren’t playing the character in the game, so allowing her to be the one to offer insight is a brilliant move. The Last Of Us season 2 episode 6 introduces Ellie’s moth dreams, and the messaging behind them. Something that is truly devastating if you ask me.

One of my personal favorite moments in The Last Of Us Part II (and I know I am not alone) is the museum sequence. Joel takes Ellie here as a surprise for her 16th birthday. He also gifts her a cassette tape that plays an actual space launch, which she listens to while sitting in a spacecraft. In this moment, the two of them are both genuinely happy. Seeing this scene adapted so perfectly brought tears to my eyes.

Later birthdays are not as happy, though, because Ellie hits that rebellious teenager stage and starts exploring drugs, tattoos, and sex. Something Joel is not too thrilled about. This is where their rift starts, but it becomes clear a lot of it stems from Ellie thinking (and being right about) that Joel lied to her about Salt Lake City.

Another new addition to The Last Of Us season 2 episode 6 is Eugene. He is Gail’s husband and has been spoken about several times, however we did not know the full story. Now we do and to say that it is devastating is an understatement. Ellie and Joel find him after he has been bit, but he begs them to bring him back to Jackson to say goodbye to Gail before he dies.

Joel promises Ellie that he will allow this, even though it is against protocol, if she goes and gets the horses. He looks her dead in the face and lies, because while she is doing this, he shoots Eugene. When they bring his body back, Joel lies to Gail in an attempt to make it a little easier on her, but Ellie exposes the truth. It is then that she knows Joel lied to her about what happened at the hospital, because he had that exact same look.

The Last Of Us season 2 episode 6 also includes the moment from the game that I knew I would never be ready for, and that is the deep conversation between Ellie and Joel about forgiveness. Ellie finally decided that she was ready to work on forgiving Joel, and that was the last time she was ever going to see him alive. Well, unless you count her watching him die.

This moment is especially difficult because you can see the two of them clearly care about each other. It is a tough one to get through and adds even more meaning to the special bond that they have. They might not be blood, but Joel is her father.

With just one episode left, it is apparent that the full events of The Last Of Us Part II are not going to be shown in this season. With The Last Of Us season 3 already greenlit, surely that is when we will explore more of Abby’s story and Ellie’s continued path of revenge.

The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 6 is now streaming on HBO Max.

NEXT: The Last Of Us Cast Teases What To Expect In Season 2

About The Last Of Us Season 2

Five years after the events of the first season, Joel and Ellie are drawn into conflict with each other and a world even more dangerous and unpredictable than the one they left behind.

Returning cast includes Pedro Pascal as Joel, Bella Ramsey as Ellie, Gabriel Luna as Tommy, and Rutina Wesley as Maria. Previously announced new cast includes Kaitlyn Dever as Abby, Isabela Merced as Dina, Young Mazino as Jesse, Ariela Barer as Mel, Tati Gabrielle as Nora, Spencer Lord as Owen, Danny Ramirez as Manny, and Jeffrey Wright as Isaac. Catherine O’Hara also guest stars.

THE LAST OF US, based on the acclaimed video game franchise developed by Naughty Dog for the PlayStation® consoles, is written and executive produced by Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann. The series is a co-production with Sony Pictures Television and is also executive produced by Carolyn Strauss, Jacqueline Lesko, Cecil O’Connor, Asad Qizilbash, Carter Swan, and Evan Wells; with writer/co-executive producer Halley Gross. Production companies: PlayStation Productions, Word Games, Mighty Mint, and Naughty Dog.

The seven-episode season two of The Last Of Us releases one new episode weekly through May 25 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on HBO and HBO Max.

The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 6 Shows Ellie’s Evolution Through Costume

Tessa Smith

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May 18, 2025

0

The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 6 Shows Ellie’s Evolution Through Costume

The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 6 focuses on flashback sequences. Costume designer Ann Foley breaks down the outfit evolution and more.

The Last Of Us series continues to feel as if it was ripped right out of the video games, thanks to the impressive set design, costumes, hair and makeup, and writing. The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 6 is spent mostly in flashbacks, celebrating Ellie’s birthdays over the years and showcasing her evolution. While several moving parts come together to accomplish this, costume designer Ann Foley has a lot to do with it.

We spoke with Foley about the series as a whole, but also The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 6 in detail. Not only is a fan favorite scene (the museum) brought to life on screen, but we really see the progression of Ellie over the course of several years, highlighted by what she is wearing.

Breaking Down The Costumes In The Museum Sequence

Tessa Smith: The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 6 really allows viewers to see the evolution of these characters as we explore several of Ellie’s birthdays. Can you talk about the progression you included in this episode?

Costume Designer Ann Foley: We started with Ellie at 14 turning 15, so the clothes are baggier. T-shirts are baggier and bigger and so are the pants. There was color and pattern because Ellie was in a happier place and as you see the episode progress, you see it getting bluer and a little bit darker. That was definitely intentional to show that not only is she getting older, but she’s changing a little bit emotionally, as well. You even see that with Joel a little bit too. You see him moving into a bluer palette as well.

In the second season, as Ellie’s journey progresses emotionally and physically, you get the idea that she’s turning into Joel a little bit. The choices that we did with her costumes were intentional for that. But one of my favorite moments in episode six is when they go to the museum. It’s such a special moment in the game and because Neil Druckmann directed that episode, I wanted to make it as special as I could as well. That’s why we recreated that t-shirt for Ellie at the museum. I made my own little changes, mainly because in the game, she’s in a tank top, but I felt it was more important to have her in a baggy t-shirt to show that kid vibe. The tank top felt more adult to me so I wanted her to feel more like a kid.

But yeah, we screen printed that t-shirt in-house to make it match exactly what was in the game. A lot of Ellie’s clothes this season are custom-made because I wanted them to have a very, they’re Ellie’s, they’re nobody else’s, they’re Ellie’s. Even the jeans, Levi’s made those jeans for her. Fifty pairs. We had so many stages of aging throughout the season. It was bananas. We have riding doubles, stunt doubles. So we found a really great pair of Levi’s that we loved, but we couldn’t get them in the length that we needed them so Levi’s was kind enough to make them for us and make them at this perfect length that we needed. We needed so many because every episode, something else happens, so you have to build on top of that. I don’t remember how many stages Ellie ended up having, but there are multiple stages, at least six or seven, I think.

Ellie & Joel’s Evolution Are Heavily Displayed By Their Clothing

The Last Of Us Costume Designer Breaks Down Season 2 Episode 6

Tessa Smith: There is a time jump between The Last Of Us seasons one and two. How did you use costumes to help tell the story of what happened between Ellie and Joel over these years?

Costume Designer Ann Foley: With Joel, what I started to play with was what if he tucks his shirts in like Tommy does? Because Tommy is the pillar of the community and Jackson. And he is a dad. So Pedro Pascal and I talked about that in the fitting. It’s like, let’s maybe tuck the shirts in this time, because you’re trying to emulate your brother. You’re a pillar in the community as well, and you’re a dad now. So we started doing that and I think it’s those little subtle changes that make a big difference.

For Ellie, that was a much larger shift and a larger change, because we needed to show the difference between Ellie as a 14-year-old child to a 19-year-old young woman. Those conversations started really early with Bella, with Craig and Neil, and even with some of the artists over at Naughty Dog, because when I started illustrating with Imogene Chayes, who’s my costume concept illustrator, we wanted that information from Naughty Dog about how did you guys get to where you got to? And then we can use that information to inform where we need to go moving forward. That was always incredibly helpful.

It also helps us stay true to the characters, even if we have to make some subtle changes. But when we started illustrating Ellie, it was things like, we’re gonna narrow the jeans. We’re going to shorten the t-shirts a little bit, even the hem on the sleeve of the t-shirt and where it hits on her arm. Same with the shirts. They’re going to be a little closer to the body, not as baggy. It’s playing with the silhouette. Even the hiking boots that she wears going into Seattle, those lift her up a little bit and they lengthen that silhouette. It’s just little changes and little touches like that, that help us with that transition from teenager to young adult.

The Costumes In The Hospital Basement Were Actually Built Into The Set

The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 5: Ellie Is Out For Revenge

Tessa Smith: In The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 5, the basement of the hospital is stunning. How does creating the clothing that is, quite literally, in the walls, work?

Costume Designer Ann Foley: That Cordyceps room was stunningly beautiful. Don McCauley, our production designer. Barrie Gower, special effects makeup genius. Oh my god. That was one of the most beautiful sets I’ve ever walked onto and into. It was incredible. And getting to collaborate with them and building the clothes into the wall was such, it was gorgeous. It’s disgusting on one hand, but it’s beautiful on another. I would say it’s disgustingly beautiful.

The clothes were sort of built into it and then the actors step into it. It was a very cool collaboration. Barrie Gower and his team, thank god, they were right next door to us in our warehouse, where our department was, so we work so closely with them in creating the infected. They make all the cordyceps pieces for us that we then incorporate into the clothing. At the beginning of the season, there was a big conversation with Craig and Neil about that we really want to take it to the next place, the next level this season with the integration. So let’s see what that really looks like when the cordyceps starts to come through the fibers of the fabric, like fungus would do in real life.

So we started doing a lot of research about how that would happen, and it was such beautiful work that my team did. They’re like art pieces. That’s a 10-day process of getting all of that cordyceps integrated into the fibers for each Clicker. And then all of the painting over it so it looks like it’s dripping and sort of oozing. Like I said, disgustingly beautiful.

Ann Foley References The Last Of Us Games Constantly

The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 4 review recap

Tessa Smith: How often do you go back and look at scenes from the The Last Of Us video games?

Costume Designer Ann Foley: Oh, constantly. I had boards in our office for every episode. We would literally pull all the characters in from the game and put them on boards for us in order of how we were shooting it in the episode, so that we had a complete visual reference of who the characters were and how they were dressed.

Not only is it helpful for me, it’s helpful for the cast. Everyone wants to know. Jeffrey Wright wanted to know, what does Isaac look like in the game. Well, here you go. This is what was in the game. Here’s the boards. It’s important. It’s important to me. It always has been. Every project that I work on, I always go directly to the source material and see what that source material is. Then I always try to stay as true to it as possible. Because it’s important to the fans and it’s important to the creators as well.

NEXT: Joel’s Emotional The Last Of Us Return Broke Me (2×6 Review)

About The Last Of Us Season 2

Five years after the events of the first season, Joel and Ellie are drawn into conflict with each other and a world even more dangerous and unpredictable than the one they left behind.

Returning cast includes Pedro Pascal as Joel, Bella Ramsey as Ellie, Gabriel Luna as Tommy, and Rutina Wesley as Maria. Previously announced new cast includes Kaitlyn Dever as Abby, Isabela Merced as Dina, Young Mazino as Jesse, Ariela Barer as Mel, Tati Gabrielle as Nora, Spencer Lord as Owen, Danny Ramirez as Manny, and Jeffrey Wright as Isaac. Catherine O’Hara also guest stars.

THE LAST OF US, based on the acclaimed video game franchise developed by Naughty Dog for the PlayStation® consoles, is written and executive produced by Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann. The series is a co-production with Sony Pictures Television and is also executive produced by Carolyn Strauss, Jacqueline Lesko, Cecil O’Connor, Asad Qizilbash, Carter Swan, and Evan Wells; with writer/co-executive producer Halley Gross. Production companies: PlayStation Productions, Word Games, Mighty Mint, and Naughty Dog.

The seven-episode season two of The Last Of Us releases one new episode weekly through May 25 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on HBO and HBO Max.

Bring Her Back Review: An Unsettling & Disturbing (But Fantastic) Horror Movie

Movies

Tessa Smith

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May 16, 2025

0

Bring Her Back Review: An Unsettling & Disturbing (But Fantastic) Horror Movie

Bring Her Back is a worthy follow-up to Talk To Me. It is unsettling, disturbing, and difficult to watch, which is exactly what makes a horror movie great.

Talk To Me is one of those movies that has stuck with me for quite a while after watching it, so I should have known that Bring Her Back was also going to mess with my head. Danny and Michael Philippou are brilliant writers and directors who truly understand horror and what they need to do to get under viewers’ skin.

It was clear early on that I was going to feel some kind of way about this movie because I am a parent. Without giving too much away, Bring Her Back follows a young girl named Piper (Sora Wong) and her brother Andy (Billy Barratt) when an unexpected tragedy forces them into a foster home.

Right from the start, their foster mother, Laura (Sally Hawkins) is weird. Something is off, and it doesn’t take long before it is clear to the audience that a bizarre and terrifying ritual is underway. The longer the movie goes on, the more that is revealed. Even if you have an idea of where things are going, you will never expect the full extent of it. I promise you that.

Bring Her Back is a devastating exploration of grief. As a mother, this one really came at me from multiple angles. Early on we learn that Laura has lost her daughter, the literal worst nightmare of any parent. Would I do anything to bring my child back? I would do a lot, but I don’t know that I would do ANYTHING.

Seeing things from the perspective of Piper, Andy, and Laura’s foster child who is already living there when the siblings arrive, Ollie (Jonah Wren Phillips), sent me through another wave of feelings. I consider myself an empath as well, which means that Bring Her Back was quite the experience for me. I watched a whole lot of it through my fingers, but I have to admit, I really love this movie.

Horror films have always been my jam. They are often a lot of fun, and for one reason or another, I enjoy squirming in my seat. I am not sure what that says about me, but here we are. This movie, however, takes things to a whole new level. There are certain scenes I cannot think about without it sending shivers down my spine.

I was also pretty sure I wasn’t going to eat for a full week after watching Bring Her Back – and not just because of the visuals – the sound design is on a whole new level. You know the sound of nails on a chalkboard? Think that times one thousand.

Bring Her Back evoked a lot of emotions from me. I found myself watching through my fingers with my shoulders up around my ears as I hid in my seat. I was disgusted, disturbed, and absolutely terrified — but all in the best way possible. The body horror elements are off the charts, and while I love twisted body horror, this movie was so much more for me.

There are a lot of heavy themes in this movie, which is expected from horror movies. There is grief, of course, and not just Laura’s, that is explored throughout. At the same time, we see a sibling bond that is something that made me smile. I have two children of my own, and I would certainly hope they would be there for each other through thick and thin, always looking out for one another.

Related: Until Dawn Movie Review: A Bloody Good Time!

Perhaps it is because I am coming at this from a parent’s point of view, but there are beautiful moments layered through the terrifying and unsettling ones. The ending is earned, and my feels were through the roof, especially after some truly devastating scenes.

There are jump scares and horrifying visuals and sounds that will haunt your dreams, but when you boil it all down, Bring Her Back is an exploration of grief. One that will have a lasting impact on me. One that made me rush home and hug my kids. This one is going to be in my brain for a long time. That said, I can’t wait to see it again.

Bring Her Back comes to theaters on May 30.

All 10 Love, Death + Robots Volume 4 Episodes Ranked

Television

Tessa Smith

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May 15, 2025

0

All 10 Love, Death + Robots Volume 4 Episodes Ranked

Netflix’s Love, Death + Robots Volume 4 is, once again, a great season filled with incredible shorts. Here are all 10 Love, Death + Robots Volume 4 episodes ranked.

Love, Death + Robots Volume 4: Zack Snyder's Lost Episode?!

Love, Death + Robots Volume 4 features ten incredible shorts. Ranging from comedy, horror, and Sci-Fi, there is something here for everyone. While not each episode is everyone’s cup of tea, there are sure to be at least a few that hit home for viewers.

Love, Death + Robots Volume 4 Episodes Ranked

Personally, I love all ten episodes that were released this season. So much so that I think this is my favorite season besides the first. Still, when push comes to shove, I can choose favorites.

Here are all 10 episodes of Love, Death + Robots Volume 4, ranked from worst to best.

Can’t Stop

Synopsis: A unique take on the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ legendary 2003 performance at Slane
Castle, Ireland, with band members Anthony Kiedis, Flea, Chad Smith, and John Frusciante recreated as string-puppets. Directed by David Fincher, who originally made his name with music videos in the 1980s and early ’90s, before segueing into unforgettable feature films.

Review: Can’t Stop looks incredible in terms of the animation. The puppets look exactly like their singer counterparts, which is extremely impressive. I love going to concerts, and this short certainly captures the vibe of attending a live event. However, it is ranked last on the list, but it is simply just the performance of a song, and nothing more.

Close Encounters of the Mini Kind

Synopsis: Tiny terror is unleashed in this mini alien apocalypse as directors Robert Bisi and Andy Lyon pay loving tribute to classic sci-fi stories of alien invasion and human stupidity using tilt-shift techniques that make the end of the world look almost cute.

Review: I really enjoyed this episode of Love, Death + Robots Volume 4. The high-pitched voices help to create the illusion of the tiny humans and aliens. I can only imagine that this episode took a very, very long time to create. It is a lot of fun, but this is such a stacked season that this lands at number nine.

Golgotha

Synopsis: In a rare live-action entry in Love, Death + Robots, a conscientious vicar – played by Rhys Darby, (What We Do In The Shadows) – plays host to an emissary of an alien race who believes their messiah has been reborn on earth… as a dolphin. So, uh… yeah, Dolphin-Jesus. Directed by Tim Miller.

Review: This is one of the most intriguing stories being told this season, and feels like something we could all be better off watching. While it focuses more on the way we treat animals from the sea, we could certainly apply this to how humans treat the environment, each other, and all animals. Rhys Darby is as brilliant as ever, but the live-action versus impressive animation in other shorts puts this one at number eight on my list.

Smart Appliances, Stupid Owners

Synopsis: From an angry toothbrush to an overworked smart showerhead and an intelligent toilet, various household appliances divulge tales of bemusement, scorn, and wonder about their human owners. Directed by Patrick Osborne, of Vol. 3 favorite “Three Robots: Exit Strategies.”

Review: A charming, cute, and fun episode, it lets us know what our smart appliances are really thinking. There are some that get a bit risk-ay (but honestly, those are the best ones). It made me laugh with each and every appliance, and provides the comedic relief in between a couple of intense episodes.

400 Boys

Synopsis: In a post-apocalyptic city where warring gangs follow a bushido-like code of honor, a new gang, the 400 Boys, forces them to unite. A blend of beauty and brutality from Canadian director Robert Valley, whose LDR episode “Ice” won the Emmy for Outstanding Short Form Animation.

Review: I love a post-apocalyptic world, and always will, so I really like the story being told here. The identity of the 400 Boys is a shock, but a fun one that adds an element of comedy to the short. The action sequences are done extremely well.

The Other Large Thing

Synopsis: From the mind of prolific writer John Scalzi comes the story of a cat who plans world domination. Sanchez, as his puny human “pets” know him, is helped by a new robotic butler (voiced by Last Week Tonight host John Oliver) who can hack into the World Wide Web and is eager to help his new master.

Review: Anyone who has, or has had, a cat will absolutely be able to relate to this one. The depiction of Sanchez is spot on, which makes this one of the funniest Love, Death + Robots episodes. The animated fur is also pretty impressive and the voice acting is great. I laughed out loud multiple times.

The Screaming of the Tyrannosaur

Synopsis: On a space station orbiting Jupiter, decadent aristocrats gather to witness a brutal contest of genetically modified gladiators — fierce combatants riding deadly, engineered dinosaurs. A tale of visceral violence and unlikely emotion, directed by Tim Miller, based on a short story by Stant Litore.

Review: This episode is another one that helps to shine a light on real-life issues. Sure, on the surface it is dinosaurs and modified slaves in space, but it is so much more than that. Showcasing the unfair dynamic between the rich and the powerful and those that are just trying to get by the best they can, not to mention animal abuse, makes this a short that will likely hit home with a lot of viewers.

Spider Rose

Synopsis: A return to the fantastic cyberpunk universe of “Swarm” (Vol. 3), created by visionary sci-fi author Bruce Sterling and directed by Jennifer Yuh Nelson. On a remote asteroid mining operation, a grieving Mechanist gets a new companion and has a chance to avenge herself against the Shaper assassin who killed her husband.

Review: There is a lot to love about this episode of Love, Death + Robots Volume 4. The design of Spider Rose is not just pretty freaking cool, but it seems to represents how she feels about herself. She is in a dark place, allowing herself to be consumed by revenge. Her relationship with Little Nose For Prophits changes her, which is a complete joy to watch play out on screen. The ending is powerful and emotional. A great episode, all around.

For He Can Creep

Synopsis: London, 1757. A poet confined to an insane asylum believes Satan wants him to write a verse that will end the world. And the only thing standing between him and the Prince of Darkness (voiced by Dan Stevens) is his cat, Jeoffry. Emily Dean directs this wildly inventive period adaptation of Siobhan Carroll’s short story.

Review: Another cat-focused episode, it is the stunning animation in this episode that allows it to stand out so much. I love the art style here, especially when it comes to Satan in his true form. The story is great and really reminds me of Edgar Allan Poe. Easily a favorite of the entire franchise, not just this season.

How Zeke Got Religion

Synopsis: B-17 Flying Fortress Liberty Belle has the oddest mission of World War Two: a journey into occupied France to bomb a church before the Nazis can raise an ancient evil. John McNichol’s short story of blood, fallen archangels, occult magic, and ultraviolence is directed by Diego Porral (lead animator on previous LDR classic “Kill Team Kill”).

Review: Something about this episode immediately resonated with me. I am not religious at all, but I certainly would be if I went on the same journey that Zeke did. The animated blood and gore are top notch in this short, and the story it tells is captivating from start to finish. That is why it lands at the top of my Love, Death + Robots Volume 4 ranking.

NEXT: Love, Death + Robots Volume 4: Zack Snyder’s Lost Episode?!

About Love, Death + Robots Volume 4

Dinosaur gladiators, messianic cats, string-puppet rock stars, it can only be Love, Death & Robots. The fourth volume, presented by Tim Miller (Deadpool, Terminator: Dark Fate) and David Fincher (Mindhunter, The Killer), sees Jennifer Yuh Nelson (Kung Fu Panda 2, Kill Team Kill) return as supervising director for ten startling shorts showcasing the series’ signature, award-winning style of bleeding-edge animation, horror, sci-fi and humor. Buckle up.

Love, Death + Robots Volume 4 is now streaming on Netflix.

Final Destination: Bloodlines Is One Of The Franchise’s Best

Movies

Tessa Smith

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May 13, 2025

0

Final Destination: Bloodlines is one of the franchise’s best, offering up gnarly, unforgettable kills, more detailed lore, and a fitting farewell to Tony Todd.

Final Destination takes that saying of “if you see a gun on screen, it has to go off at some point” and turns it completely on its head. That is what I love so much about this franchise. It shows audiences the danger in, well, everything. I would be lying if I said I didn’t leave my screening of Final Destination: Bloodlines looking around me, making sure that I was safe. The pace at which I walked down the stairs to enter the building – slower than a turtle.

Bloodlines is easily one of the best of the franchise. I would rank it firmly behind the first film, which likely has a lot to do with nostalgia and the fact that Final Destination was the start of it all – you really can’t top that. These kills are gnarly. They are unforgettable. This movie does not hold back on the gore, which is much appreciated.

The opening sequence always sets the tone for Final Destination films, which is exactly what the one in Bloodlines does. It seems like with each movie, this sequence gets bigger and bolder. Well, hold onto your pennies (you will get this when you watch it) because this is one of the most terrifying openings ever.

If you are like me, and you refuse to ever drive behind a log truck because of the trauma that this franchise has caused you, then you are about to never want to take an elevator up higher than any human should go, as well. I used to love the idea of dinner with a view, but nope, this is no longer something I strive to do.

Here is where we meet Iris (Brec Bessinger). She is not in the movie a lot, but if she didn’t nail that role, no one would be interested in seeing where things go. Of course, she does exactly that, making the audience fall in love with sweet Iris, which only makes it more entertaining to see the older version of her later on, and learn what she has been through over the years.

The CGI might not be perfect in this scene (or in most of the death scenes, for that matter), but it is pretty darn good and accomplishes exactly what it needs to. There is blood, there is gore, and there are moments that will have you cringing and laughing at the same time.

Not only do we instantly care about Iris, but the rest of the cast is pretty likable too. Kaitlyn Santa Juana leads as Stefani, as she is great, but for me, Richard Harmon stole the show as Erik. He might look hard on the exterior, but he is a big softie who loves his family on the inside.

He provides a lot of the comedic relief with his sarcasm and well-timed jokes. Plus, his chemistry with Owen Patrick Joyner, who plays his brother Bobby, is off the charts. They are so much fun to watch on screen together.

One of my favorite things about Final Destination: Bloodlines is the death scenes. See the photo above this paragraph? Yeah, that was my face for most of the movie as well. This is something the franchise has always done well, but it feels like they really raised the bar this time around.

Tony Todd’s monologue in Final Destination: Bloodlines almost feels as if he wrote it himself as a goodbye to his fans. He mentions being sick, and that he is now just going to live life to its fullest until death comes for him. Watching this after his devastating passing is a whole new level of emotional intensity that I never thought I would experience during a Final Destination film.

To no one’s surprise, he nails the role. It might be a small part, but it is not only impactful, he delivers some important lore that is sure to bleed into rest of the franchise as it goes on.

Final Destination: Bloodlines is fantastic. The characters are great, the deaths are brutal, and the blood and gore is off the charts. I am so happy to see this franchise at the top of its game again with an expansion of the lore without it feeling like it is jumping the shark.

Final Destination: Bloodlines comes to theaters on May 16 and believe me when I tell you, you absolutely have to see this one in theaters. As with all movies in this franchise, it is all about he communal experience of discovering what death has in store for these characters.

NEXT: Love, Death + Robots Volume 4: Zack Snyder’s Lost Episode?!

About Final Destination: Bloodlines

The newest chapter in New Line Cinema’s bloody successful franchise takes audiences back to the very beginning of Death’s twisted sense of justice. Plagued by a violent recurring nightmare, college student Stefanie heads home to track down the one person who might be able to break the cycle and save her family from the grisly demise that inevitably awaits them all.

Final Destination: Bloodlines comes to theaters May 16.

Snow White (2025): Gal Gadot Becomes The Evil Queen [EXCLUSIVE CLIP]

Tessa Smith

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May 12, 2025

0

Snow White (2025): Gal Gadot Becomes The Evil Queen [EXCLUSIVE CLIP]

[EXCLUSIVE CLIP] Gal Gadot, Rachel Zegler, and Andrew Burnap discuss how Gal brought the iconic Evil Queen to life in the new live-action Snow White.

Get ready for a royal treat! We’re thrilled to bring you an exclusive look at the making of Disney’s live-action Snow White. Join the powerhouse trio of Gal Gadot, Rachel Zegler, and Andrew Burnap as they sit down to discuss one of the film’s most captivating elements: Gal’s transformation into the unforgettable Evil Queen.

Snow White (2025) releases on digital May 13. It will be available to rent or purchase on digital platforms like Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home. The physical release on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD will follow on June 24, 2025.

Snow White Exclusive Clip: Gal Gadot Becomes The Evil Queen

This is your chance to hear directly from the stars about the magic behind the movie. In this must-see clip, Gal Gadot offers a glimpse into her approach to portraying such an iconic antagonist. Hear her thoughts on the character’s motivations and the overall experience of stepping into such formidable shoes.

Discover the nuances and dedication Gal Gadot brought to the role, offering a unique perspective on a character we all know and love to fear. From costume and makeup to finding the inner darkness, this exclusive glimpse reveals the meticulous work and passion that went into crafting her portrayal.

In this exclusive Mama’s Geeky clip, Snow White herself, Rachel Zegler, reveals what she thinks makes Gal Gadot the perfect Evil Queen. “Nobody would be expecting it,” she says. Andrew Burnap wholeheartedly agrees, adding a layer of intrigue by noting “the camera shuts off, and all that goes away.”

Gal Gadot looks stunning as one of Disney’s most iconic villains in Snow White (2025). If you missed her performance in theaters, or just want to see it again, get ready, because the film comes home on digital May 13.

NEXT: O’Dessa Review: Like Nothing You Have Ever Seen Before

About Snow White

Disney’s Snow White is a live-action musical reimagining of the classic 1937 film. Starring Rachel Zegler (“West Side Story”) in the title role and Gal Gadot (“Wonder Woman”) as her Stepmother, the Evil Queen, the magical music adventure journeys back to the timeless story with beloved characters Bashful, Doc, Dopey, Grumpy, Happy, Sleepy, and Sneezy.

Snow White (2025) releases on digital May 13. The film will be available to rent or purchase on digital platforms like Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home. The physical release on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD will follow on June 24, 2025.

Murderbot Review: Sure To Be Another Apple TV+ Hit Series

Television

Tessa Smith

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May 12, 2025

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Murderbot Review: Sure To Be Another Apple TV+ Hit Series

Apple TV+’s Murderbot is yet another hit from the streaming platform, which rarely misses. Alexander Skarsgård is brilliant, as is the rest of the cast.

I did not know exactly what to expect from Apple TV+’s Muderbot, as I went into it fairly blind. I avoided trailers and did not even know that the show is based on a book series until after I finished watching the first season’s final episode. All of that said, it took me less than one episode to become completely hooked, causing me to fly through all ten episodes in just two days.

Alexander Skarsgård leads the film as Murderbot, but he is surrounded by an incredible supporting cast (including David Dastmalchian, Sabrina Wu, and Noma Dumezweni), elevating the emotional journey he goes on throughout the season. The dry humor makes each episode extremely entertaining, but it is the second half of the season, when things really pick up and the stakes get high, that make this one more than worth checking out.

I am always partial to an exploration of a potential high-tech future, which is exactly what this series is. While at first, the show is about Murderbot trying to hide the fact that he has broken his governor chip, the second half is about the care and admiration that he starts to develop for his clients.

From the start, it is known that they did not even want to have a Security Unit with them, but they were forced to. They do not believe in imprisoning robots against their will, which is why things get extremely interesting once the cat is out of the bag.

These relationships between the humans and Murderbot had me feeling pretty emotional by the end of the season, especially with the events of the finale.

Skarsgård absolutely shines in this series. He perfectly delivers the lines and does a great job looking the part. How he remains so stoic, with almost no facial expressions, the entire time, is impressive and shows what a good actor he is. He is brilliant.

That said, David Dastmalchian gives him a run for his money as Gurathin in this series. His character might not be a robot, but he has a lot of robotic augmentations, making him the most like Murderbot. There is certainly tension between the two to start with, but the evolution of their characters and their relationship is one of my favorite parts of the season.

The same can honestly be said for the rest of the cast, however. The relationships and bonds evolve and change, making it easy to root for everyone by the end of the tenth episode.

Murderbot does a great job of blending several genres together. It is Sci-Fi first and foremost, but it is also quite hilarious. There are some epic action sequences and a whole lot of drama (and some romance). Apple TV+ is known for delivering some of the best series streaming today, and this one is no different.

NEXT: Love, Death + Robots Volume 4: The Making Of “Spider Rose”

About Murderbot

In a high-tech future, a rogue security robot secretly gains free will; to stay hidden, it reluctantly joins a new mission protecting scientists on a dangerous planet even though it just wants to binge soap operas.

The first two episodes of Murderbot are scheduled to premiere on Apple TV+ on May 16, 2025. New episodes will be released every Friday until the season finale on July 11.

The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 5: Ellie Is Out For Revenge

Television

Tessa Smith

-

May 11, 2025

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The Last Of Us Season 2 episode 5 shows that Ellie truly is out for revenge, as she hunts down Nora. We also see just how brutal Seraphites are.

The Last Of Us Season 2 episode 5 gives fans a glimpse at Ellie’s descent into allowing revenge to fully consume her. While we see her happy at the start of the episode, joking around with Dina, all it takes is one look at Nora to snap her back into the darkness that she is letting take her over. One of the best things about this story is how she very closely mirrors Abby.

This episode is one of the best of the season, and while some things differ from the game, certain scenes feel like they are ripped right from it. This is something The Last Of Us has always been good at doing.

The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 5 Reveal: Jesse & Tommy Followed Ellie & Dina

Probably one of the biggest changes from The Last Of Us Part II this season was not having Tommy head out of Jackson first. I thought this meant he was not going to leave at all, but still assumed that Jesse would be hot on the tails of Ellie and Dina. However, Jesse confirms that he and Tommy came after the two girls.

While we do not see Tommy this episode, he is going to connect with them and Jesse at the theater. This has me intrigued, and also has me thinking that Tommy’s role in the revenge from the game is still going to happen.

Confirmed: The Seraphites Are BRUTAL!

One of my favorite parts of The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 5 is that viewers (especially those who do not know the games) got a look into just how brutal the Seraphites (also known as the Scars) are. We already knew that they like to hang people and disembowel them, but to witness it being done as someone pleads for their life this episode was actually insane to watch.

They are proving themselves to be a formidable foe, and I cannot wait to see more key moments from the game come to the screen.

Ellie Is Out For Revenge In The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 5

Being able to get a close up look at people becoming infected in the basement was also pretty incredible. The makeup and effects team has really outdone themselves. I am so glad that the show took the time for Ellie to get up close and personal with Leon, so that we could see the makeup and prosthetics.

But perhaps the biggest thing this episode is Ellie finally getting her chance to get revenge on one of Abby’s friends. Nora might not have killed Joel, but she was there, and her saying that he got what he deserved to Ellie certainly did not help her chance of survival.

While the chase scene was certainly shortened, a must for it to translate well to the screen from the game, we still got to see the key components of Nora’s death and the way Ellie seems to flip a switch, letting the happy girl go. It is sad to see, but a key part of the story.

The end of the episode, along with the teaser for next week, means it is finally time for a Joel flashback sequence. I cannot wait to see Pedro Pascal on the screen again. This is going to be an emotional one – as the astronaut / museum sequence is one of my favorites from the game.

The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 5 is now streaming on Max.

NEXT: The Last Of Us Cast Teases What To Expect In Season 2

About The Last Of Us Season 2

Five years after the events of the first season, Joel and Ellie are drawn into conflict with each other and a world even more dangerous and unpredictable than the one they left behind.

Returning cast includes Pedro Pascal as Joel, Bella Ramsey as Ellie, Gabriel Luna as Tommy, and Rutina Wesley as Maria. Previously announced new cast includes Kaitlyn Dever as Abby, Isabela Merced as Dina, Young Mazino as Jesse, Ariela Barer as Mel, Tati Gabrielle as Nora, Spencer Lord as Owen, Danny Ramirez as Manny, and Jeffrey Wright as Isaac. Catherine O’Hara also guest stars.

THE LAST OF US, based on the acclaimed video game franchise developed by Naughty Dog for the PlayStation® consoles, is written and executive produced by Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann. The series is a co-production with Sony Pictures Television and is also executive produced by Carolyn Strauss, Jacqueline Lesko, Cecil O’Connor, Asad Qizilbash, Carter Swan, and Evan Wells; with writer/co-executive producer Halley Gross. Production companies: PlayStation Productions, Word Games, Mighty Mint, and Naughty Dog.

The seven-episode season two of The Last Of Us releases one new episode weekly through May 25 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on HBO

Ben 10: The Complete Collection Box Set Coming To DVD

Tessa Smith

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May 10, 2025

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Ben 10: The Complete Collection Box Set Coming To DVD

Ben 10: The Complete Collection box set includes 227 episodes as well as 2 full-length movies. Available starting May 13.

Ben 10: The Complete Series Box Set Available On DVD

Cartoon Network’s Emmy® Award-winning animated sci-fi series is coming to DVD for the first time ever, with the release of Ben 10: The Complete Series on May 13, 2025.

Get ready to binge on all 227 episodes of the beloved series starring the alien-changing Ben Tennyson on his intergalactic alien-fighting adventures, plus 2 full-length movies Ben 10: Secret of The Omnitrix and Ben 10: Destroy all Aliens.

Follow Ben Tennyson’s epic journey from an everyday, average kid to a legendary teenage hero across four action-packed series. With the Omnitrix – a powerful device that lets him transform into incredible alien heroes – at his side and the help of his cousin Gwen, he battles powerful villains, uncovers hidden alien worlds, and saves the galaxy time and time again! Whether Ben’s facing classic goes, unlocking ultimate transformations or stepping into a new era, every adventure proves that it’s always Hero Time!

The global juggernaut Ben 10 franchise debuted on Cartoon Network in 2005 and also includes Ben 10: Alien Force, and Ben 10: Ultimate Alien, Ben 10: Omniverse, as well as a series of television movies.

The franchise also spawned licensed retail merchandise that thrives around the world and continues its appeal from generation to generation.

Includes all 227 episodes created over the years from Ben 10, Ben 10 Alien Force, Ben 10 Ultimate Alien, and Ben 10 Omniverse, and 2 movies including Ben 10: Secret of The Omnitrix and Ben 10: Destroy All Aliens.

Purchase here.

NEXT: Regular Show: The Complete Series Available On DVD Now

Annie Broadway In Hollywood Review: A Magical Performance

Tessa Smith

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May 8, 2025

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Annie Broadway In Hollywood Review: A Magical Performance

Thanks to Broadway In Hollywood, Annie is performing at the iconic Dolby Theatre May 7 through 18, and it is a show you do not want to miss!

I know the story of Annie, but admittedly, I had never been to see the stage show until this week. There is something magical about allowing yourself to become completely immersed and lost in another world by watching a live performance in a theater. Thanks to an insanely talented cast, my 12-year-old daughter and I were laughing, cheering, and yes, even crying, at the Dolby Theatre on opening night.

The musical performances throughout the show had me tapping my toes and trying my hardest not to sing along. My daughter, who knew nothing of the plot or story, was completely captivated by the events happening on stage. So much so that she has been listening to the soundtrack on repeat since leaving.

To be perfectly blunt, you never know what you are going to get when a musical features this many children. Kids have off days (trust me, I have two of them), and sometimes it can be hard for them to roll with the punches if something unexpected happens. This cast of Annie is filled with little professionals. Not only were do the Orphans have amazing voices, they were so much fun to watch because they hit every mark and delivered perfectly timed comedic relief.

At one point, someone’s cell phone went off, and they surely heard it on stage, but no one missed a beat. Later on in the production, there was microphone interference during a key scene featuring Annie, but Hazel Vogel handled it like a champ. It is these moments that really stood out to me, because they show just how committed this cast is.

Hazel Vogel is exceptional as Annie. From the very first moment that she opened her mouth, it was clear she is a star in the making. She oozes the optimism and hope that fans have come to accept from the character, and it was an absolute joy to watch her commanding stage presence throughout the entire show.

Stefanie Londino has played Miss Hannigan for years now, which is very clear because she is phenomenal. Not only is she hilarious, but she is truly fun to watch. Christopher Swan is great as Oliver Warbucks as well, and Julia Nicole Hunter perfectly rounds out the main cast as Grace Farrell.

While I had a great time, there were some political themes that I had semi-forgotten about. Considering how close to home they are right now (especially the stuff about the Great Depression), it was a little difficult to watch. This is something my daughter did not really pick up on or get bothered by, but it made me emotional thinking about how close we are to going through that as a country again.

Annie is performing at the Dolby Theatre from May 7 to 18. Get your tickets here.

NEXT: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Has The Best Stage Production I Have Ever Seen

About Annie

Holding onto hope when times are tough can take an awful lot of determination, and sometimes, an awful lot of determination comes in a surprisingly small package. Little Orphan Annie has reminded generations of theatergoers that sunshine is always right around the corner, and now the best-loved musical of all time is set to return in a new production – just as you remember it and just when we need it most.

Annie, directed by Jenn Thompson, features the iconic book and score , written by Tony Award®-winners Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin. This celebration of family, optimism and the American spirit remains the ultimate cure for all the hard knocks life throws your way.

Annie is performing at the Dolby Theatre from May 7 to 18.

MAMA'S GEEKYAll Things Entertainment For Movie, TV, & Music Geeks

MAMA'S GEEKYAll Things Entertainment For Movie, TV, & Music Geeks

Seeing Pedro Pascal Back As Joel Was Emotional

NEXT: The Last Of Us Cast Teases What To Expect In Season 2

About The Last Of Us Season 2

Breaking Down The Costumes In The Museum Sequence

Ellie & Joel’s Evolution Are Heavily Displayed By Their Clothing

The Costumes In The Hospital Basement Were Actually Built Into The Set

Ann Foley References The Last Of Us Games Constantly

NEXT: Joel’s Emotional The Last Of Us Return Broke Me (2×6 Review)

About The Last Of Us Season 2

Related: Until Dawn Movie Review: A Bloody Good Time!

Love, Death + Robots Volume 4 Episodes Ranked

Can’t Stop

Close Encounters of the Mini Kind

Golgotha

Smart Appliances, Stupid Owners

400 Boys

The Other Large Thing

The Screaming of the Tyrannosaur

Spider Rose

For He Can Creep

How Zeke Got Religion

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About Love, Death + Robots Volume 4

NEXT: Love, Death + Robots Volume 4: Zack Snyder’s Lost Episode?!

About Final Destination: Bloodlines

Snow White Exclusive Clip: Gal Gadot Becomes The Evil Queen

NEXT: O’Dessa Review: Like Nothing You Have Ever Seen Before

About Snow White

NEXT: Love, Death + Robots Volume 4: The Making Of “Spider Rose”

About Murderbot

The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 5 Reveal: Jesse & Tommy Followed Ellie & Dina

Confirmed: The Seraphites Are BRUTAL!

Ellie Is Out For Revenge In The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 5

NEXT: The Last Of Us Cast Teases What To Expect In Season 2

About The Last Of Us Season 2

NEXT: Regular Show: The Complete Series Available On DVD Now

NEXT: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Has The Best Stage Production I Have Ever Seen

About Annie

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