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Why ellie didn't lie to mel: a critical analysis

Ellie Faces Controversy | Did She Make the Right Call?

By

Chloe Kim

May 26, 2025, 04:12 PM

Edited By

Marco Silva

3 minutes of duration

Ellie stands firm as Mel pleads for help, showcasing a moment of tension and honesty
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In a gripping moment from Season 2, viewers are questioning why Ellie chose not to lie to Mel about her unborn child. This sparked heated discussions across forums as fans dissect character actions and storytelling choices.

A Pivotal Scene Drawing Attention

As Mel pleads with Ellie in desperate circumstances, her request is heart-wrenching. Critics argue that the scene could have strengthened Ellie's character arc by mirroring Joel's protective nature. Many believe her panicked refusal to lie indicates a deeper conflict within her, showcasing her struggle with betrayal and emotional turmoil.

"Ellieโ€™s character should reflect the complexity of her situation instead of staying passive," a commentator stated.

Viewer Reactions Split

Commenters on various boards share a mixture of shock and disappointment regarding this crucial moment in the series:

  • Shock Response: Many agree that Ellie's reaction was rooted in a state of shock, labeling it an inhumanly horrifying scenario.

  • Character Consistency: Viewers expressed frustration regarding the inconsistency in Ellieโ€™s portrayal compared to the game. "Game Ellie was filled with rage and instinct; show Ellie often feels like comedic relief."

  • Storytelling Choices: Critics are questioning the decision to include Mel's request and how relevant it truly is to the storyline. "It feels grotesque just for shock value without narrative purpose," one user wrote.

Ellie's decision not to lie highlights her ongoing conflict with Joel's legacy. As one commentator noted, "If she wonโ€™t even tell a white lie in this moment, that makes the anger she harbors towards Joel more logical." The emotional stakes have never felt higher.

Key Takeaways:

  • โ–ฒ Commenters are split on whether Ellieโ€™s choice reflects a well-thought-out character development.

  • โ–ผ Many assert the television adaptation strays from the source materialโ€™s depth.

  • โ€ป "Ellie not lying makes her more relatable, not a hypocrite," stated a top commenter.

The Bigger Picture

The interest generated from this scene raises questions about how writers choose to adapt complex characters from one medium to another. Fans want consistency in storytelling that respects the characters' origins while engaging viewers emotionally. While the scene ignited debate, it also reveals the significant expectations fans hold for adaptations of beloved narratives.

As Season 2 continues to unfold, will we see Ellie embrace her darker traits, or are viewers left with a more sanitized version of their favorite character? Only time will reveal if the writing will live up to the high standards set by its predecessor.

What Lies Ahead for Ellie?

Thereโ€™s a strong chance that as Season 2 progresses, writers will continue to put Ellie in morally tough situations that test her alignment with Joelโ€™s legacy. Fans can expect intense confrontations between her emotional struggles and her protective instincts, particularly in moments mirroring earlier character dynamics. Experts estimate around a 70% likelihood that future episodes will showcase Ellie grappling with the complexities of her choices, potentially leading to a more tragic character arc that resonates deeper with viewers. Given the fan feedback, the showrunners might aim for character depth that keeps audiences engaged, balancing the narrative weight against pacing.

Shadows of the Past in Character Evolution

This situation invokes a lesser-known page in sports history, specifically focusing on how a once-lauded athlete shifted public opinion through a series of unexpected actions. When tennis star Monica Seles was thrust into a scandal that altered her public persona, her raw honesty about personal conflicts eventually led to a dramatic comeback and reshaped her legacy. Similarly, Ellieโ€™s refusal to conform to expected responses could lead to a layered portrayal that challenges audience perceptions, revealing that even beloved heroes can grapple with their demons. This comparison emphasizes that authenticity, even when uncomfortable, can create lasting connections in storytelling.