Picking up about five years after the events that changed everything, The Last of Us returned with its second season, bringing fans back to the post-apocalyptic world that remains after a fungal pandemic ruined mankind. In season one, viewers became invested in the show’s earnest yet complicated characters all dealing with the loss of family or the life they once knew. Now, with season two in full swing, Complex and Max partnered to create a communal experience by hosting a private screening event and panel discussion for the season’s third episode.

Hosted by Kylie Mar, the event took place Thursday night (April 24) at L.A’s NYA Studios. Attendees enjoyed a cocktail hour with popcorn and sliders before immersing themselves in the upcoming third episode. After the screening, Mar conducted a live Q&A panel discussion with several members of the cast including Gabriel Luna, Isabela Merced, Danny Ramirez, Tati Gabrielle, and Ariela Barer.

Yet, before Mar posed a question about the third episode, the cast had to discuss the pivotal second episode in which Pedro Pascal’s beloved character Joel met his demise. Ariela Barer, who plays Mel, details just how much work went into filming. “We shot that scene for a week.

It was really intense,” the 26-year-old actress said. “You know, it was sad to see. Pedro was ending a legendary run on this show and his relationship with Bella.

It's all so beautiful to witness and to be a part of this is an honor. So, I was just overwhelmed and it felt appropriate for the scene. It was a beautiful day of filming.” During the Q&A, topics such as justice, revenge, hurt and anger were all explored.

Mar posed a question to the entire cast and asked if they could speak to the characters they play, what do they think would be their character's motivation that justifies their actions. For Danny Ramirez, he thinks Manny, is motivated by the hope of a better tomorrow. "There was a potential for a worldwide vaccine," Ramirez said.

But not before Isabela Merced, who plays Dina, made note of one key factor. "Heavy on the potential side," she said. "She did not consent.

She had no power to consent. They lied to Joel about the mission." The upbeat, lively discussion served as a nice balance to some of the heavier themes from the show.

Attendees saw some of their favorite actors react to the third episode in real time, which only added to the cultural impact The Last of Us is continuing to build. The Last of Us HBO series is based on the acclaimed video game franchise developed by Naughty Dog for the PlayStation® consoles. The show is written and executive produced by Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann.

Check out some highlights from the event below.