The latest season of Mike White’s anthology series, The White Lotus, fails to deliver a satisfying conclusion due to overpacking narrative beats. By introducing multiple storylines and characters, the show loses sight of its core theme: the exploration of wealth and its excesses.
The series’ signature technique of opening with a guest discovering a dead body only serves as a distraction from the true focus. Instead of delivering an expected and climactic ending, the show’s pacing slows down, allowing characters to ponder life, death, and survival. A newfound emphasis on Buddhist principles further deviates from the original tone.
However, the season 3 finale ultimately proves that The White Lotus is not immune to formulaic storytelling. Despite its efforts to expand its themes, the show remains tied to its original approach, leaving some viewers unsatisfied with the conclusion.
Source: https://www.theatlantic.com/culture/archive/2025/04/white-lotus-season-3-finale-review/682328