Movies

‘The White Lotus’ Season 3: Dark, Devilish and Dangerous

BBG News

WARNING: Mild spoilers ahead.

On this swelteringly humid day in Bangkok, Thailand, the red carpet is rolled out for Max’s “The White Lotus” season three premiere. The actors arrive by boat much like the characters in the story would at their fictional resort, sailing down the Chao Phraya River as a tribute to the Thai people. After all, they had spent several months living and shooting scenes in various parts of this lush tropical nation, and they all concur that the warm-hearted hospitality and unwavering generosity of the Thais left an indelible mark on the cast and crew dynamics.

In season three, the show The White Lotus delves deeply into spiritual themes, imbuing Thailand with a fresh vitality. Much like how New York City becomes a character itself in HBO’s Sex and the City, Thailand takes on a life of its own within this series. The country’s rich spiritual sites, interwoven seamlessly into the lives and culture of its people, make it an ideal backdrop for Mike White’s vision.

In the first episode, the stage is carefully established for the relationships that will unfold throughout the eight-episode series. Making her acting debut, BLACKPINK’s Lalisa Manobal takes on the role of Mook, a girl living next door and the White Lotus’ health mentor, perfectly embodying the character. Tayme Thapthimthong’s Gaitok, a resort security guard, harbors feelings for his colleague, much like many other staff members, but chooses to protect rather than pursue. Returning from season one is popular actress Natasha Rothwell as Belinda Lindsey, who travels from Hawaii to Thailand on a work exchange program and follows the guidance of Pornchai, portrayed by Dom Hetrakul, a member of the resort’s wellness staff. The group is led by Sritala Hollinger, co-owner of the resort and pioneer of its health program, played by renowned Thai actress Lek Patravadi, who is married to American Jim Hollinger (played by Scott Glenn).

This season at the resort, the Ratliff family, headed by Jason Isaacs as Timothy, the troubled financier, and Parker Posey as Victoria, his wife and mother, are traveling east. Among them are their three children: Saxon (Patrick Schwarzenegger), an older son working for his father, Piper (Sarah Catherine Hook), a middle child and daughter writing her college thesis on religion, and Lochlan (Sam Nivola), the youngest, who is a shy high school senior. Upon arrival, Timothy and Saxon clash with Walton Goggins’ character Rick Hatchett, a mysterious individual linked to Jim Hollinger. Rick’s only relief from his troubled mind is Chelsea (Aimee Lou Wood), his much younger girlfriend, who brings humor and a fresh perspective to the group with her charm. The main cast also includes Leslie Bibb, Carrie Coon, and Michelle Monaghan as Kate, Laurie, and Jaclyn, old friends on a girls’ trip that may lead to discussions about their strained relationships.

Behind-the-scenes, the cast perceives the grandeur of shooting at the luxurious Four Seasons hotels and resorts not only as opulence, but as an opportunity to narrate a tale. Each character is multifaceted; Schwarzenegger emphasized that Saxon was crucial to be more than just a “flat, obnoxious character.” Posey’s Victoria grapples with her inner turmoil and apprehensions in loving her children, while Rothwell’s Belinda, post-season one events, retains her essence, though somewhat restrained. Patravadi, who returned from retirement for the series, viewed Sritala as a chance to absorb fresh insights from White. She even purchased Max solely to watch the first two seasons. For this esteemed actress, she felt a sense of responsibility as a Thai individual to contribute to a story that unfolds in her homeland.

It turns out that Isaac was correct; audiences aren’t interested in watching wealthy individuals enjoying their vacations. Instead, they prefer to witness their downfall in real-time. While the show’s absurdity was always apparent, the popularity of its first two seasons granted White the freedom to delve deeper and probe more questions concerning humanity during season three. The inclusion of spirituality and challenging themes such as existence, mortality, and ego in season three provide a richer viewing experience by raising the question: Who are you when all facades are removed?

The White Lotus season three is available to stream now on Max.

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2025-02-18 12:56

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