The White Lotus has returned with its trademark blend of luxury, deceit, and dark secrets. Mike White’s latest series takes the audience to Thailand, where eight affluent Americans are about to discover that their luxurious vacation will be anything but relaxing. Half of them hide dark secrets, while the other half create new ones as a dead body is discovered.
The cast includes Parker Posey, Jason Isaacs, and Patrick Schwarzenegger, among others, playing characters with complex motivations and backstories. There’s Victoria Ratliff, Timothy’s wife, who may be hiding more than just her happiness; Saxon, their son, who seems to be hiding secrets of his own; Piper, idealistic daughter, writing a thesis on Eastern religion; and Lochlan, gentle son, trying to come out as gay in a family that doesn’t tolerate much difference.
The series also introduces Rick, Walton Goggins’ character, seeking redemption, bloody vengeance, or maybe selling kittens. His storyline is intertwined with that of his younger girlfriend Chelsea and their complicated past.
Further out from the centre, we have Jaclyn, Laurie, and Kate, three friends reuniting after years apart, each with their own struggles and secrets. The show also explores a tender romance between hotel security guard Gaitok and “health guru” Mook, adding to the rich stew of possibilities.
Mike White’s signature style is on full display as he tackles themes of power dynamics, sex, class, and religion. However, the satirical bite seems to have mellowed slightly compared to previous seasons. Nevertheless, the precision of storytelling, direction, and performances remains masterful.
The White Lotus has become a staple of satirical television, always skewering the unthinking arrogance and active malevolence of the wealthy elite. With its exquisite cinematography, scripted dialogue, and pacing, this latest series promises to be a sumptuous feast for all who watch.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2025/feb/11/the-white-lotus-review-third-season-thai-resort