THE PREMISE:

"The social satire is set at an exclusive Thai resort and follows the exploits of various guests and employees over the span of a week."

OUR REVIEW:

The third season of The White Lotus drips with intrigue, opulence and bad behavior. Creator and showrunner Mike White has perfected his formula; this season is his best yet. 

Fans of The White Lotus know this story by now: couples and families arrive at a luxurious resort to spend an unforgettable week. Wealthy guests and long-suffering staff will interact in predictable and impossible-to-predict ways. And, of course, before the end of the week, someone will die. 

Just as he did with season one in Maui and season two in Italy, White has highlighted the very best of his gorgeous filming location in this season’s Thailand setting. From verdant jungle scenery to exquisite shorelines, this season of The White Lotus will undoubtedly drive tourism to the beautiful beaches of Ko Samui and surrounding areas.

As someone with a personal family connection to Thailand, I love that White strayed from some of the darker movie tropes often associated with the Land of Smiles, and instead has focused on things that feel more true and authentic: the beautiful people, hospitable culture and lush natural surroundings of the country. 

As usual, White has pulled together a sparkling ensemble cast featuring Leslie Bibb, Carrie Coon, Walton Goggins, Sarah Catherine Hook, Jason Isaacs, Lalisa Manobal (aka Lisa from the K-pop group Black Pink), Michelle Monaghan, Sam Nivola, Lek Patravadi, Parker Posey, Natasha Rothwell, Patrick Schwarzenegger, Tayme Thapthimthong and Aimee Lou Wood.

Rothwell is the only cast member in this season to reprise her role from a previous season - you’ll remember her as the patient and lovely Belinda from the Maui spa in season one.

The White Lotus season 3 features eight episodes, and this lucky writer has seen six of them already. Watch for a group of friends who may actually turn to frenemies if they can’t stop talking about each other behind their backs; a wealthy family with lots of secrets sure to implode by the end of the season; and a May-December couple who are not as they appear.

Overall, appearances can be deceiving at The White Lotus - sometimes those who look like they have it all may actually be ready for a terrible fall. Things get very, very dark this season - especially around episode six! I for one cannot wait to see how it all ends.

While I found myself missing the irrepressible Jennifer Coolidge from seasons one and two, her spirit lives on in the show. There truly cannot be a more fun, naughty, clever and travel-inspiring show than The White Lotus. Mike White’s writing, storytelling, direction and impeccable cinematography leave nothing to be desired - season three is another feast for all of our senses.

See you in Thailand!