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White Lotus proves it can still shock in surprising and flawless third season

BBG News

White Lotus season 3 episodes 1-3 were available for review.

Back in the day, around two and a half years ago, watching the season finale of White Lotus felt like being part of a groundbreaking TV moment for the digital era. It sparked a wave of internet buzz, with memes popping up left and right, deep conversations, and a massive movement on social media, proclaiming Jennifer Coolidge’s character, Tanya Macleod, as the queen we never knew we needed.

Given the triumph of a third season, it seemed an obvious choice. Yet, like any critically acclaimed series, a hint of apprehension arises before the next episode, praying that the high-quality experience hasn’t deteriorated.

As a gaming enthusiast, I can’t help but feel excited! Mike White’s thought-provoking series is back, and it’s just as captivating as ever. His witty dialogues and intricate storylines are as sharp and sleek as the best video games out there, keeping me on my toes with unexpected twists and tantalizing moments that I can’t help but savor.

In the third season, we find ourselves at yet another breathtaking White Lotus resort nestled in Thailand, where tranquility and rejuvenation are prioritized.

Similar to previous installments, the initial scene features another character meeting an untimely end in a chilling manner – a body floating peacefully in a serene healing pool surrounded by a Buddha statue, while gunfire echoes in the distance. The suspenseful moment concludes, leaving the number of victims undisclosed for now, and we’re transported back to a week prior when White welcomes his fresh ensemble for their vacation.

Initially appearing is a recurring character, Natasha Rothwell’s Belinda, who was the spa manager at the Maui resort during season one. Now, she’s transitioned to this East Asian paradise as part of an exchange program. She remains the cheerful Belinda, showing signs of cautious optimism and carrying remnants of hurt from Tanya’s business deceit in season one.

Once more, she serves as a mirror reflecting our shared humanity, given her history in hospitality. Her consistently kind behavior towards staff stands out, contrasting sharply with some less-than-gracious visitors at the resort.

At the forefront are the Ratcliffs, a Southern family of five who are quite captivating, yet embody typical characteristics of affluence. Their matriarch, Victoria (Parker Posey), seems perpetually medicated, reaching for a pill at even minor discomforts, while Timothy (Jason Isaacs) serves as the family’s financial cornerstone, keeping his business dealings discreet from the rest of the family.

Patrick Schwarzenegger, the eldest sibling, predictably works under their father and has a reputation for being inappropriate, often engaging in conflicts with his sister Piper (Sarah Catherine Hook), who prides herself on her commitment to a spiritual, authentic lifestyle.

She casually remarks that the hotel’s guests resemble a luxurious, bohemian Disneyland for wealthy individuals from Malibu, usually seen in LuLuLemon yoga wear. Though she might not realize it, she herself is part of this elite group. Interestingly, both siblings are trying to influence their youngest brother Lochlan (Sam Nivola), who bears a resemblance to Fred Hechinger’s character Quinn from the first season, as they struggle to find their place in life.

In season two, we were introduced to the gay characters; in season three, we meet the female leads who serve up equal doses of tantalizing wit. The trio – Jaclyn (played by Michelle Monaghan), Laurie (Carrie Coon) and Kate (Leslie Bibb) – are long-time friends reuniting following their separate life journeys.

In a nostalgic throwback to their high school cheerleading squad days, Jaclyn emerges as the uncontested leader, her success in Hollywood financing their getaway. They display unwavering camaraderie and overly saccharine affection towards each other, but any attempt at independence triggers an awkward silence that leaves two of them giggling uneasily. Undercurrents of rivalry and comparison are always present, hinting at a potential confrontation reminiscent of the guests in White Lotus.

Completing the cast are the adorable couple, Rick (well-known as Walton Goggins from ‘Fallout’) and Chelsea (humorous Aimee Lou Wood from ‘Sex Education’). This season, it’s Chelsea who brings the laughs, playing an optimistic character who manages to brush off Rick’s constant jabs and persevere through a challenging relationship. Despite the toxic nature of her current situation, she dreams of experiencing the luxurious hotel life.

Rick appears incredibly uncomfortable and even skeptical in the wellness environment, showing an attitude that seems insincere or exaggerated, yet his decision for lodging has a purposeful intention hidden behind it.

Regardless of the large number of characters involved, their stories seamlessly connect and keep viewers hooked, much like the first two seasons. These characters, however, might be the most detestable group yet, full of self-centeredness, vanity, and occasionally cruel to each other. Yet, it’s entertaining to watch them, and the anticipation of their inevitable downfall, hinted at by the enigmatic buddha statues scattered in nature, adds an extra layer of excitement.

Firstly, episode one delivers a stunning twist that seamlessly connects the season to the broader narrative of “White Lotus” and showcases White’s continued knack for surprising viewers. The same elements of drama and formula are present, but they’ve proven their worth and now have a permanent residence, as season three hints at even more depth in this intriguing, darkly humorous series.

Season three of “The White Lotus” is scheduled to debut in the United States on HBO and Max on February 16, and in the UK on Sky and NOW on February 17. If you want to catch up on seasons one and two, they are currently available for streaming on Sky and NOW.

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2025-02-11 19:49

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