When We Are in Need

When We Are in Need is the darkest and most disturbing episode of the season, a very faithful adaptation of the corresponding part of the game and a haunting reminder of what the apocalypse will do to people that shows the infected aren't even close to being the worst monsters in this world.

This is the most faithful episode of the season, barely deviating from the game and only briefly enhancing the backstory of David's community (which works) with the rest being shot for shot and line for line. However by invoking the memory of the game it invites comparison to the source and obviously some of the scenes aren't as strong as the original but are still great here.

Bella Ramsey has always been really good at showing Ellie's warmth but here she really shines because of the horror and pain she convincingly portrays. Scott Shepherd is superb as David, his kindness is so off-putting and when he does show his true nature it's so horrifying to witness.

Ali Abbassi's direction is excellent, knowing when to show you the disturbing imagery and when to leave it your imagination. The episode also covers a lot of plot in less than an hour so it's a testament to the pacing that it doesn't feel rushed and knows exactly when to end.