Movies

Unscripted Drama: The Real-Life Scandals of ‘The White Lotus’ Filming

BBG News

Indulging in the latest installment of the darkly humorous show “The White Lotus” certainly ranks among the most indulgent of secret enjoyments.

Could anything be more intriguing than observing the wealthy elite – who are often dishonorable, questionable, superficial, and lacking in substance – navigate their life-altering and at times fatal vacations amid breathtaking scenery?

Back in 2021, I found myself utterly captivated by this murder mystery-cum-social satire that unfolded against the breathtaking backdrop of a luxury resort in tropical Hawaii. This show was an unexpected global sensation, drawing in a staggering ten million viewers per episode! The accolades rolled in like waves on a Hawaiian shore, with the series scooping up dozens of prestigious awards. It’s no wonder why I couldn’t tear myself away from the screen every week!

In the year 2022, the second series that aired was equally successful and significantly boosted the acting career of the talented Briton, Leo Woodall, who is now shining in the cast of Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy.

Now begins the third season of our show, which starts airing from Monday. It was shot at the stunning Four Seasons resort on Koh Samui, along with other breathtaking spots across Thailand.

This time around, the main actors are Jason Isaacs, known for his role as Lucius Malfoy in the Harry Potter series; Patrick Schwarzenegger, fittingly muscular son of actor-bodybuilder Arnold; and Lisa, a singer from the popular South Korean band Blackpink.

From my perspective as a lifestyle expert, I must share that the on-screen events involve a captivating mystery surrounding the discovery of a body in a tranquil meditation pond. The actors involved have all agreed to multiple confidentiality clauses to preserve the enigma of the deceased’s identity and the circumstances behind their demise. Moreover, anticipation is building for the arrival of a notable guest star who will make an appearance during the series run.

However, the behind-the-scenes account of the show’s production – filled with cast disputes, excessive drinking, and temperatures so scorching that a crew member’s Crocs fused to the floor – makes for quite a captivating tale, minus any fatalities.

Isaacs, 61, revealed that there had been outbreaks of dengue fever and food poisoning on set.

During the eight-week shooting period, the interior of the 5-star hotel, serving both as their residence and filming location, occasionally took on a palpable intensity. Later, they shifted locations to film in Phuket and Bangkok.

He described it as something akin to an opulent prison, during a recent interview. There’s no doubt that at times it can be utterly fantastic, but other times it feels like being trapped in the chaotic world of ‘Lord of the Flies’.

He commented: “The experience was a blend of a theater workshop and a semi-open detention center. We were constantly interacting with each other. There were strains and complications; I can’t say for sure whether they carried over from the stage to real life, or if they would have arisen regardless.

As an ardent fan, I can tell you, my journey was filled with shifting allegiances, fleeting romances, and friendships that came and went. Time spent apart from loved ones seemed endless, yet the thrill of the exotic locale – Thailand – offered a never-ending party scene to keep me going. The open bar was always there, encouraging the wildness that only this enchanting land could inspire.

Isaacs confessed: ‘I can’t pretend I wasn’t involved in some off-screen drama.’

In an interview with The Guardian, he clarified that such incidents during the filming of The White Lotus were not unusual. Previously, producers Dave Bernad and show-runner Mike White had encountered similar situations.

During the filming of season two, there were whispers about tension among the cast, with Aubrey Plaza and Michael Imperioli, who appeared as guests, being mentioned. However, these allegations were all firmly dismissed by them.

During the production, Woodall and Meghann Fahy developed feelings for each other and have remained a couple ever since. Isaac commented: ‘As for Bernad and White, I can’t confirm their thoughts, but it seems plausible that they believe it enhances the on-screen dynamics, and they could very well be correct.’

It seems that the heat played a role in creating cracks. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone once more [at the premiere], and I’m certain we’ll be embracing and greeting each other warmly, cherishing those moments. However, there were instances when things weren’t quite as pleasant.

As someone accustomed to this environment, I found myself growing familiar with it, but after a fortnight, my wife – who had previously been an actress and was accompanying me on set – expressed her surprise by saying, “Some of these individuals are truly eccentric.” I replied, “Not at all, dear. They’re simply actors, far from home, reminding you of the peculiarities of our profession.

In an interview, Bernad stated, “Regardless of whether it’s done unconsciously or intentionally, individuals often embody the characteristics of their roles. Similar to any work environment, prolonged interaction can lead to frustration towards each other.

In typical situations, after working, you return home to your loved ones. Here too, you work, and at the end of the day, you head back to the very same people.

According to Isaacs, a significant challenge was managing the heat since they needed to turn off the hotel’s air conditioning for filming purposes.

As the temperature soared to 30 degrees Celsius, accompanied by an intense heat radiating from the lights, it grew almost unbearably scorching. Actors were given rehydration packets and ice packs during breaks, but despite this, numerous crew members started feeling sick as time passed.

As the sun sets, I find myself unwinding from my action-packed days by embracing an evening ambiance that’s more reminiscent of a festive gathering than a typical night’s rest.

Isaac stated: ‘Many people are far from home, and it seems there’s plenty of wild, festive behavior happening. I’m not betraying confidences. Simply put, adults are indulging in their pleasures. Thailand is known for its lively celebrations, and we’re no exception.’

Externally speaking, there’s hardly anything more beautiful than the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui. It sprawls across a vast 43-acre expanse of verdant, hilly terrain that cascades towards the tranquil Gulf of Thailand.

Naturally there is an infinity pool and a bar, CocoRum, plus a spa, The Secret Garden.

In a recent statement, actor Sam Nivola, who is the real-life son of Emily Mortimer and Alessandro Nivola and portrays Isaac’s fictional son in this series, expressed his amazement: ‘I’ve never before encountered such extravagance while filming a show. It was absolutely astounding, and it has set our standards for luxury unattainably high for all future productions.’

The show was filmed there last February and March, with the hotel closed to outside bookings.

However, as the enthusiasm for the White Lotus series has soared to unprecedented heights, the hotel’s manager, JJ Assi, reveals that they often needed to halt drone flights and boat anchoring attempting to catch a glimpse, due to the influx of curious onlookers.

Some tourists even turned up, at the resort insisting that they wanted to be a part of the cast.

A woman from Israel circled the cliff edge thrice, expressing her desire to join the performance, he stated. On one occasion, she sustained an injury and began bleeding.

The White Lotus is an original creation by Mike White, a past reality TV competitor and actor who later transitioned into writing and directing. During the early stages of the pandemic, executives at HBO requested a project that they could film in isolation for COVID-19 safety measures, and this led to the concept of a witty murder mystery being developed by White.

The production, shot at the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, resonated deeply with viewers longing for a vacation, especially one as lavish as that.

The popular series introduced iconic characters like the disheveled heiress Tanya McQuoid, played by Jennifer Coolidge, whose performance brought life to humorous, off-the-wall dialogues such as: “Deep down, she’s just a hardcore, booze-addled lunatic!” and “Check out this view! I wonder if anyone has ever taken a leap from here.

In the second season, which was shot at the Four Seasons San Domenico in Sicily, there was quite a stir surrounding British actor Theo James’ on-screen nudity. Later on, James confessed that he wore a fake penis during those particular scenes.

This time around, who are the guests at the White Lotus? The Ratliffs, hailing from North Carolina, have arrived by boat.

In the role of the wealthy family’s patriarch, Timothy, is actor Jason Isaacs, while Parker Posey portrays his character’s wife who relies on medication.

Or more informally:

Actor Jason Isaacs plays the part of wealthy family head, Timothy, and Parker Posey takes on the role of his medicated wife.

In the cast, Patrick Schwarzenegger portrays the eldest sibling Saxon, a charismatic older brother figure, while Sam Nivola takes on the role of Lochlan, a character who appears to be smitten with his brother. The part of daughter Piper is filled by Sarah Catherine Hook.

In the series, both Schwarzenegger and Isaacs often make appearances without clothes. Isaac humorously comments about his full-frontal scenes: “I’ve gone ahead and done it, so go ahead and enjoy while you can.” Conversely, Schwarzenegger mentions that as the series progresses, there are certain episodes he won’t be watching alongside his parents or relatives.

It seems I might need to step away during episodes five and six for a few bathroom breaks, though I could potentially skip those episodes. However, I’m not entirely sure yet, so let’s wait and see. But my family is really looking forward to it!

I believe that my trust in Mike is quite substantial overall. After all, considering his history with suggestive scenes, as you know, and his penchant for challenging boundaries while maintaining an air of excitement, I never had a moment’s doubt about it.

Additionally, three actresses – Michelle Monaghan, Carrie Coon, and Leslie Bibb – portray three sun-loving friends on a vacation in Thailand during this series.

However, the harmonious bond of their girls’ getaway gradually fades due to lingering grudges and an excess of cocktails.

Their girls’ trip initially seemed perfect, but as old resentments resurfaced and drinks flowed freely, the unity began to unravel.

Additionally, the character Rick, portrayed by Walton Goggins, along with his youthful hippie companion Chelsea (played by Aimee Lou Wood from Sex Education), are expected to make an appearance on Koh Samui as well.

The origin story of series three is appropriately filled with drama. As Mike White recounts, the concept struck him following his hospitalization in Chiang Mai, a place where he had been searching for locations, due to a bout of bronchitis.

He was put on a nebulizer and says that he ‘dreamed’ the entire plot overnight.

It’s uncertain if he has struck gold once more, but given its intriguing nature, the series may well endure in the minds of those involved. As he put it: ‘There’s a hint of the Eagles’ Hotel California in this show – though you may join, you’ll never really depart from it.’

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2025-02-16 05:35

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