The White Lotus Season 3: Has It Gone Too Far?

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Summary

  • Season 3 of The White Lotus is the longest yet with a late-night cliffhanger leading to a full-moon party.
  • Could new characters like Chelsea and Victoria provide the comic relief fans are missing?
  • Mike White’s engagement with themes of money, monkeys, and messiness is at its peak in Season 3.

The third season of “The White Lotus” on Max will feature eight episodes, marking it as the longest yet. Typically, each episode covers an entire day at the hotel, but Season 3, Episode 4 titled ‘Hide or Seek’ concluded with a suspenseful cliffhanger just before the infamous ‘full-moon party’, a monthly all-night beach celebration that takes place in Thailand in real life. As various plotlines are reaching their boiling point at the halfway mark, viewers can expect an explosive continuation. Let’s examine the crucial story developments up to Episode 4 and compare it to where the series stood midway through its previous two seasons, as this season thus far has been more about setting the stage than delivering action.

The current episodes seem a bit slower due to fewer humorous segments, as Jennifer Coolidge’s character, Tanya, was a significant source of comedy in the past. Could it be possible that a new character is stepping up to fill Tanya’s comedic shoes this season? Characters like Chelsea, played by Aimee Lou Wood, and Victoria, portrayed by Parker Posey, are potential candidates for this role. Viewers haven’t quite decided yet who the standout character is at this point, but they are certain about a few things regarding Writer-Director Mike White: he’s often grappling with financial issues, has an unusual fondness for monkeys, and enjoys creating chaos. Given these traits, White appears to be thriving in his current situation.

Mike White Is Embattled By Money

In Seasons 1 and 2 of the show, Tanya acted as a magnet for all sorts of events. Specifically, in Season 1, Episode 4 named ‘Recentering’, Tanya casually proposes a business partnership to Belinda, a character portrayed by Natasha Rothwell who is a wellness expert. This opportunity could have been trivial to Tanya, but it could have meant everything to Belinda. However, Tanya eventually withdraws from the deal, claiming she wanted to avoid “transactional relationships”. Interestingly, while doing so, she was involved in a relationship with Greg, who turned out to be less than honest.

As a devoted viewer, I can’t help but reflect on Tanya’s significant role in the comedy series, particularly during Season 2. She wasn’t just a source of humor, but she personified the awkward display of wealth that the show consistently critiques. It was fitting, therefore, that her character met her end at the close of Season 2, even though it was hard to accept her departure forever. The anticipation among fans in the lead-up to Season 3 was palpable as we wondered who would step into Tanya’s shoes and fill her role on the show.

In Season 3, I find two intriguing substitutes for Tanya’s wildcard character that bring a fresh twist. One is Chelsea, who manages to stay cheerful and hopeful despite the series of unfortunate events befalling her, such as being threatened with a gun and bitten by a snake, even before we reach the halfway point. Then there’s Victoria, a unique blend of intelligence and folly, vehemently resistant to any tests that might measure her cognitive abilities. She’s always dispensing advice, yet in a peculiar twist, she attempts to mimic Chelsea’s mindset using excessive medication.

As the story unfolds, both their characters promise growth, particularly Victoria, as her husband, Tim (played by Jason Isaacs), spirals out of control and steals her prescription pills. The evolution of these characters is something I eagerly anticipate!

In the first season, Greg is portrayed as an endearing elderly man who develops feelings for Tanya. However, viewers won’t find out until later that he’s actually a ruthless killer disguised as a government land manager. Despite the audience’s initial lack of knowledge, his arrival at the hotel was impactful. It is important to note that Greg claims to work for the government, but it seems unlikely given his position at the luxurious White Lotus hotel, catering exclusively to the super-rich.

In the second season’s pivotal episode ‘In the Sandbox’, viewers are introduced to a group of gay friends on a yacht, who become fond of Tanya. These friends, whom Tanya calls “the gays,” turn out to be a band of criminals plotting to kill her as they enjoy her company and help her relax.

In a way that leaves viewers clueless about their true malevolent nature, these characters are introduced early on, yet their entrance proves significant in hindsight. In ‘The Sandbox’, Quentin, the mastermind of the wicked troupe, tells Tanya she’s like the lead in an Italian opera, to which she questions if it means her fate is sealed. He replied that it didn’t, but he was deceitful, hinting at future instances where characters might reveal their true intentions.

In Season 3, Episode 5, who might we see as new characters that appear harmless yet could pose a threat? It’s believed Belinda’s son will make his appearance in the upcoming episode, but isn’t he just her innocent lad? We’ve already witnessed him slipping away from gunfire during the series’ signature opening scenes. However, given the show’s penchant for ambiguous morality, it’s hard to tell if he’s truly a good kid anymore.

In reference to the storyline about avenging a father’s death, Rick, portrayed by Walton Goggins and Chelsea’s partner, is on a mission to find the man responsible. It seems that his dad went to Thailand before Rick was born with the intention of preventing The White Lotus from mistreating locals. Whether this story is accurate or not remains uncertain, which adds to its intrigue, despite its consistent structure. The characters in The White Lotus are known for their unpredictable and dynamic motivations.

Mike White Is Obsessed With Monkeys

In the movie ‘Recentering’, Steve Zahn’s character, Mark Mossbacher, takes a float in the children’s pool alongside his son, Quinn. Moments earlier, Mark had received a grimly humorous phone call revealing that his father lived a secret life and actually passed away from AIDS rather than natural causes, as he had been led to believe all this time. Quinn then confides that under the influence of alcohol, Mark had compared making love with Quinn’s mother to eating a plate filled with live worms. Regretting his words, Mark decides to be honest and clear the air, still somewhat intoxicated, much like his father never managed to do about his double life with Quinn.

In Season 1, comedy and honesty moved in perfect sync, creating a balance that subsequent seasons have struggled to maintain. Now, Mike White is delving deeper into the dramatic elements of suspense and mystery. However, this doesn’t mean that Season 1 was shallow with heavier topics; instead, it offered moments of lightness for viewers to breathe as characters grappled with deeper issues, such as when Mark bravely navigated a heartfelt conversation.

Mark admits to Quinn that he had betrayed Quinn’s mother in the past, a deed he later described as a prolonged period of suffering, likening it to hell. However, he managed to learn and grow from this experience. Using a distinctive analogy by Mike White, Mark explains, “At first, you might act like a mindless monkey, but you’ll feel the regret.” He continues, “There are two parts to you – the rational man and the impulsive monkey. You need to muster up the courage to confront your impulses as a man.

In the beginning of Season 3, a subtle but significant scene places the Ratliff siblings – Patrick Schwarzenegger as Saxon, Sarah Catherine Hook as Piper, and Sam Nivola as Lochlan – in a way that mirrors the traditional image of the wise monkeys who symbolize ‘see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.’ Saxon wears sunglasses, Piper has headphones on, and Lochlan drinks from a bottle. This ancient Chinese proverb usually signifies guarding one’s spirit to avoid negativity, but it can also refer to people turning a blind eye to wrongdoing. When considering the incestuous inclinations of Saxon Ratliff in light of his parents’ perspective, this parable comes to mind.

In the hotel room of the troubled Ratliff family, you’ll find monkeys – both figurines and real ones. The statues depict chimpanzees, while the live ones, mentioned in Season 3, Episode 1, are known for their aggressive behavior. This is a side note made by a meditation instructor who encourages tranquility to tame our restless, monkey-like minds.

Previously, during Season 1, around the halfway mark, Mark Mossbacher, under the influence of alcohol, confided in his son that they are essentially sophisticated monkeys residing in ‘monkey pods’, driven by primitive urges to establish hierarchies and engage in physical intimacy. Later on, at White Lotus Hotel’s manager Armond’s desk, a statue symbolizing ‘see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil’ could be found.

Midway through Season 1, an episode ends with Belinda unexpectedly discovering Armond involved in a sexually inappropriate act with one of his subordinates, fueled by cocaine. This revelation puts Belinda in a difficult position, forcing her to decide whether to confront her superior for the unprofessional and exploitative behavior she’s just witnessed. The dramatic twist is a standout moment in the series thus far, hinting at the intensity that lies ahead as the story progresses towards its climax.

Mike White Loves Making Messes

It’s not surprising that Parker Posey compares the Ratliffs to a family of mischievous monkeys. She emphasizes their playful and reactive nature, adding that it was crucial for her character to be humorous, offering wit and silliness. This observation could hold significance because the Ratliff family is undeniably chaotic, perhaps even on par with the families portrayed in Game of Thrones. Additionally, her comments might suggest a more boisterous side to her character as time goes on, becoming bolder without her medication, which could be a treat for fans who admire Tanya’s quirky humor.

Mike White has left no stone unturned in portraying the Ratliffs this season, presenting a troubling mix of fraud, drug use, and incest within their family. Moreover, there seems to be imminent danger ahead for the family as patriarch Tim resorts to stealing a firearm during his descent into chaos following a global money laundering scandal, fueled by his addiction to pills. Yikes!

At the moment, Tim’s wife Victoria appears to be acting somewhat questionably herself. She awkwardly denies knowing one of their three vacationing friends who claims they met at a baby shower 10 years ago. It seems strange to be secretive about a baby shower, but this group of potentially two-faced friends could hold hidden secrets that Mike White is interested in exploring further, as he has been intrigued by the idea of women in secret competition since his first season on The White Lotus.

In the middle episode of Season 1 titled ‘Recentering’, character Sydney Sweeney portrays Olivia Mossbacher, who tries to win over Paula’s boyfriend who performs flame dancing. Later, she falsely reveals that they are friends and expresses gratitude for their close bond. It is also revealed that Olivia, being wealthy, had brought along Paula, who isn’t, to the White Lotus hotel.

In the TV series “The White Lotus,” the first affluent family serves as an ideal representation of the show’s investigation into the wealthy versus the underprivileged, with Olivia expressing dissatisfaction despite her privileged status. Using her social standing, Olivia seeks validation by attempting to claim a portion of her less fortunate counterpart’s earnings, regardless of their source. The midway episode ‘In The Sandbox’ in Season 2 showcases a more selfless female friendship between Escort Lucia and musician Mia, but creator Mike White ultimately disrupts this concept in Season 3.

In consideration of Mia’s aspirations, Lucia motivates Mia to exploit the wealthy with her charm. Simultaneously, the relationship between Aubrey Plaza’s character Harper and her boyfriend Ethan is strained. This fragile bond becomes even more tense when Harper discovers a condom wrapper hidden in their hotel room cushions, with Lucia being the suspect. The wrapper was actually left behind by Cameron, a traveling companion of Ethan, portrayed by Theo James. Prior to this incident, Cameron had been testing the loyalty of Harper and Ethan, making advances towards Harper.

In Season 2, Cameron often creates distrust, leading to heated arguments and even a physical fight with Ethan later on. His portrayal of toxic masculinity is evident through his frequent lack of shirt and high sex drive, which negatively impact both his friendships and romantic relationships. Another character, Dominic (played by Michael Imperioli), unknowingly endorses Cameron’s extramarital affairs by encouraging Lucia to start an affair in the first place. These themes of infidelity mirror the problems faced by the Mossbachers in Season 1.

In a more relatable phrasing: Ethan and Dominic’s son, Albie, represent loyal men to a higher degree. However, their female counterparts show resistance in diverse ways against the traditional masculinity upheld by the good guys. At the end of ‘In the Sandbox’, Albie seeks comfort in a same-sex relationship, which was previously involved with both Cameron and his father. Once more, this situation creates complexity.

In Season 3, the trio of gossiping friends, played by Leslie Bibb as Kait, Carrie Coon as Laurie, and Michelle Monaghan as Jaclyn, undermine the harmonious bond established earlier between Lucia and Mia through their backbiting. Instead of using their words to support each other, they often use them to secretly criticize one another, a contrast to the way they build each other up publicly.

In Season 3, Episode 4 titled ‘Hide or Seek’, a sizzling criminal associate sends our characters to an inexpensive senior living facility. This same individual was involved in a hotel heist that put Chelsea’s life in danger. Later, the girls ask him to take them to a lively bar where they cross paths with his shady companions. To conclude the episode, a club version of the Season 3 theme tune plays, hinting at more intense events to come next time.

Mike White Is In Top Form In Season 3

In its extended episodes, ‘Hide and Seek’ deviates from the usual structure by narrating a single day across two parts, with the events of the night concluding in episode 5. Unlike the climactic mid-season episodes of ‘White Lotus’, this format doesn’t include the customary dramatic twists. Some viewers might be anticipating a shocking revelation, often characterized by unexpected sexual encounters such as Armond’s wild drug-fueled parties or Albie’s surprising father-son relationships.

As a movie enthusiast, I can confidently say that viewers need not fret, for the ‘full-moon party’ hints at an endless supply of drinks and a myriad of intrigues unfolding for several characters in The White Lotus. The scheming son of Perverted Ratliff, Saxon, aboard his smug mega yacht, and the treacherous trio of girlfriends embarking on their own vindictive escapade, are all poised to stir up some juicy scandals by the end of Episode 5.

By now, it’s clear that Saxon has already objectified his sister, exposed himself to his younger brother while masturbating, and generally shown himself to be a despicable character. He’s now manipulating Lochlan into assisting him in seduccing the young dates of much older men on a colossal boat belonging to Greg, or as he calls himself here, “Gary”.

The stars are lining up as we approach the full moon party marking the start of Season 3’s second act. Right now, Belinda’s son is on his way, while she follows Gary who’s been secretly gathering information about her in a game of cat and mouse. This intricate dance of spies has taken a tragic turn. Meanwhile, Chelsea’s partner Rick is jetting off to Bangkok with the intention of avenging his father’s death by taking down the Thai White Lotus boss, who’s rumored to be the culprit. Lastly, Tim has just snatched a gun from an unsuspecting security guard, Gaitok, in the midst of a mental collapse after learning about his looming legal troubles.

The final act promises an exhilarating twist. Unlike previous seasons, humor isn’t the main focus here for the storylines, but never before has The White Lotus been as captivating as it is in Season 3. Mike White is delivering a remarkable performance, and as Saxon puts it at the end of ‘Hide or Seek’, “With a full moon, things are about to get wild.

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2025-03-14 02:11