This year saw a new gaggle of rich holidaymakers check in, for a third time, to The White Lotus, a fictious luxury hotel chain in which deception, lies and murder are as commonplace as cocktails, massages and breakfast buffets. After previous jaunts to Hawaii and Sicily, Mike White, the show’s creator, took HBO’s “best, and most uncomfortable, TV show” to Thailand for its third season, which meditates upon the rather profound themes of spirituality and purpose, since, behind all the glitz and glamour of its guests, who range from characters played by Jennifer Coolidge, Sydney Sweeney and Theo James, lies a scathing social critique about wealth and class.
Despite its mixed criticism, being simultaneously described as “a letdown” yet also “absolutely exquisite”, the third season of The White Lotus divided fans. Even changes in the iconic opening credits song riled many, especially once a feud between White and composer Cristóbal Tapia de Veer over said changes was revealed. Yet, this aside, overall, this season of The White Lotus was as strong, satirical and steamy as its previous two iterations.
One cannot deny that the novelty of the first season and the sheer camp factor of the second raised the expectation exceptionally for this season. And yet, despite not perhaps being as concise as its predecessors, The White Lotus: Thailand was excellent in its own cerebral meditations on the interplay between wealth and purpose, adult friendship, and our own relationships with the taboo. Moreover, this season had many standout performances, such as comedic actress Parker Posey and Sex Education star Aimee Lou Wood, who bring both belly-hurting humour and deep sincerity, respectively.
Therefore, despite returning from this vacation, I will be eagerly counting down the days until I can pack my suitcase again for The White Lotus Season 4. With many predicting a ski season in the show’s future, I think the “watercooler social satire” will head to Africa, perhaps even for a safari adventure that tackles the theme of colonial guilt and race. But who knows? Wherever The White Lotus goes next, I will definitely be coming along for the ride.
