Endure and Survive

I probably could've watched sooner like most everyone else but I prefer the live version and not into the Super Bowl. Anyways this was so damn good best episode yet! Lamar Johnson's performance was sublime, the directing was perfection throughout, and so much engaging entertainment that should be praised for years. The epicness of Endure and Survive stands out like an episode of Breaking Bad with similar masterful vibes throughout! The coordination of planning to get out of town, calmness, and action that will have you on your toes. I must say I don't say I don't understand the complaints of episode 3 even that was well made at least this episode 5 here makes up for any mixed vibes.

I'll try and stop my complaining that this episode came out on a Friday, and I almost didn't catch on it release. And, aside from that, there is a lot of good this episode does. It remains faithful (perhaps the most faithful yet, and certainly more faithful than ep. 3, so for those of you who hated that episode for not telling the exact story told in the game, first, grow up, and second, you should be happy with this one), and is also just really good and emotional. Perhaps the antagonist characters got too much screen time, but whatever. Overall, great performances, great writing, great story. Great show.

A huge improvement NO SPOILERS Episode 5 Endure and Survive brings back the tense and fast paced tone found in various scenes in prior episodes, while providing a balance throughout the episodes with emotional tones and themes. In this episode, it continues on the cliffhanger featuring Henry and Sam, and we see them in a much bigger role than their two second cameo in the previous episode, as well as seeing Perry and Kathleen again.

While many people disliked the introduction of Kathleen and Perry as original characters, I felt it brought more depth to the rebels, who weren't featured in much detail in the games. Many people also shared their dislikes with Melanie Lynskey's performance, criticising her soft and "un-frightening" demeanor and voice, however I liked this, as it goes against the cliche of all antagonists being callous and rough.

This episode has much more narrative and story then the two previous episodes and was a great continuation of the adventure of Joel and Ellie in the last episode.

10/10.

Episode five is for sure the episode that underwent the most changes compared to the game. The screenwriters ended up avoiding certain events and maybe it was the right choice. The main element of this episode is the introduction of Henry and Sam which has an excellent development. All their construction manages to make you become attached to the characters. I dare say that the characters are better in the series compared to the game. Ellie's relationship with Sam is all built up in just one episode and yet it's compelling and well-developed. This is definitely the best episode of the series so far.

As a non gamer , I was absolutely thrilled by this episode. We are introduced to two new characters "Henry and Sam" . Exploring their back story and their issues with hunters. Needless to say this episode featured one of the best action sequences till date. If that wasn't enough the ending absolutely was not expected. This episode also shows how the people that are not infected are as bad as the infected. Joel is actually softening up and as the episodes progress he is more accepting of people. Ellie is honestly the best part of the show. The actors that portrayed Henry and Sam really did a good job. But this episode really offered a glimpse of what is to come I am expecting huge action sequences in the end of the season. We need to see how that works out and Joel and Ellie's relation really is the best part for the show.