Reel Corner - May 2025

May 2025 Issue
Reel Corner by Donne Paine

The White Lotus
Paradise with a Dark Side
Written and Directed by Mike White
An HB0 Original Series

Mike White’s The White Lotus has evolved into a compelling anthology series that intertwines themes of privilege, morality, and the human condition. After the success of the first two seasons—one set against the lush backdrop of Maui and the other amidst the historical beauty of Sicily—Season 3 transports us to Thailand, offering a fresh, yet familiar, exploration of the dark undercurrents that flow beneath the surface of luxury.

[Adult Content Advisory]

Season 3 features an all-star, stellar cast including: John Gries, Patrick Schwarzenegger, Natasha Rothwell, Jennifer Coolidge, Parker Posey, Walton Goggins, Michelle Monaghan, Carrie Coon, Leslie Bibb, Jason Isaacs, Sam Nivola, Sarah Catherine Hook, Aimee Lou Wood, Lalisa Manobal, Patravadi Mejudhon, and Tayme Thapthimthong. The chemistry between the cast is electric, igniting the show’s signature blend of humor and drama.

A beautifully crafted exploration of the human psyche, set against the rich tapestry of Thai culture. Whether you’re a die-hard White Lotus fan or a newcomer, this season is a must-watch, promising to leave you both entertained and in deep thought. This unique storyline always begins with an unidentified dead body in the opening scene of episode one. The story then shifts to one week earlier as a new group of guests arrive at the fictional global resort hotel chain, The White Lotus. It’s as if the audience becomes detectives, trying to decipher the circumstances and characters, predict the identity of the victim, and solve the murder.

Season 3 of The White Lotus follows three sets of guests: 1. The wealthy and privileged Ratliff family from North Carolina are traveling to Thailand because their daughter is studying Buddhism; 2. Three female friends on holiday in which one is a successful television actress; 3. And a middle-aged American with his young English girlfriend who are there to avenge his father’s death. There are subplots that offer back stories of hotel staff, as well as the returning shady character, Greg/Gary (John Gries) from previous seasons.

One of the most striking elements of this season is its darker, more contemplative tone. While previous seasons had their share of drama and satire, Season 3 leans into Buddhist themes and cultural customs, inviting viewers to ponder the complexities of their existence and futures. Waves, water, and references to tsunamis are cinematic themes in each season, which perhaps lend meaning to within the ocean can exist both death and peace—the contrast of light and dark, a reflection of the characters’ internal struggles and the cultural tensions in a land that has become a playground for Western tourists. The show takes a deep dive into the underbelly of cultural appropriation, privilege, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world, all while maintaining its signature wit.

Fun Facts:
• All cast members must audition.

• Every actor in The White Lotus: Season 3 was reportedly paid the same,
non-negotiable salary of $40,000 an episode.

• It was reported that Woody Harrelson was first pick for the role of Mr. Ratcliff (Jason Issacs), but Harrelson would not agree to the salary.

• Season 3 took seven months to complete, all on location in Thailand. It was first scheduled to be filmed in Japan, but Thailand offered a better tax exemption.

• Seasons 1 and 3 were filmed at Four Season Hotels, both claiming a sharp increase in reservations since the show began.

Sources: www.imdb.com, www.NYT.com, www.buzzfeed.com

Donne Paine, film enthusiast, once lived around the corner from the Orson Wells Theater in Cambridge, Massachu-setts, where her strong interest in films, especially independent ones, began. Supporter of the arts, especially films, she has traveled to local and national film festivals including Sundance, Toronto and Tribeca. There is nothing like seeing a film on the big screen. She encourages film goers to support Hilton Head local theaters, Park Plaza Theater and Northridge. To support her habit of frequent movie going, Donne is a vaccine medicine nurse consultant and also the author of 4 Interview Pillars available on Amazon. See you at the movies!