Is a Tsunami About to Wreck ‘The White Lotus’ Season 3? Find Out in Episode 3!

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One of The White Lotus‘ strengths lies in its ability to build suspense effectively. Each season starts with a violent incident and its aftermath at the resort, then rewinds to reveal how it occurred. This is similar to a magician revealing their trick beforehand, yet still managing to impress. However, the early episodes of The White Lotus often don’t match up to the later ones in terms of impact, though strong writing, acting, and visual style help compensate for this. In Season 1, this approach was highly successful, but it seemed less effective in Season 3. Nevertheless, by the end of Episode 3 (“The Meaning of Dreams”), all the pieces are set in place for a captivating final five episodes.

The ominous beginning of Episode 3 hints at the impending turmoil as Victoria, in a white gown under the moonlight, finds herself on a beach where her luxurious home stands. She’s out there at night, facing the ocean, with a tsunami approaching. Although she isn’t aware of the specific troubles, Victoria (played by Parker Posey, maintaining her humor) undoubtedly senses that something is drastically amiss concerning her husband, Timothy (portrayed by Jason Isaacs, equally impressive).

In my perspective, it seems like Lochlan’s YouTube videos about tsunamis could be symbolically weaving themselves into Victoria’s dreams, serving as a subtle warning. Is Victoria truly keen on discovering that her husband’s business is crumbling and he might face imprisonment? By the finale of Episode 3, Timothy too has chosen to ignore this grim reality, drowning his worries in as many Ativan pills as Victoria does.

Rick Hatchett Wants One Night in Bangkok

Episode 3 starts off with Rick, played by Walton Goggins who’s growing more captivating, posing as a movie producer and casually joining Fabian (Christian Friedel, barely recognizable) and Sritila (Lek Patravadi) for breakfast. He skillfully flatters Sritila, playing on her vanity and desire for fame, by feigning a casting offer for a film he’s “producing.” Rick subtly hints that the supposed director of this fake movie is in Bangkok, where he knows Sritila will be to visit her ailing husband. What exactly is his plan?

In simpler terms, by linking this particular scene with a subsequent phone call Rick makes and another therapy session, it becomes clearer that Rick is intent on tracking down and killing the person who murdered his father. Although he may not find true happiness, he aspires for “satisfaction.” Later, Rick leaves a message for someone named Frank in Bangkok, hinting at his need for assistance with some matters. This suggests that Rick is determined and seems to be planning to bring turmoil to Bangkok.

He informs his girlfriend, Aimee Lou Wood (who is charmingly kind-hearted and empathetic), that he’s headed to Bangkok and will be leaving her behind. She’s distressed but relents, a pattern that unfortunately characterizes their relationship. Rick doubts his own worthiness of happiness, while Chelsea feels like she embodies pure goodness (and indeed, benefits from his wealth). Rick advises her to seek out another man and move on. “How can you be my soulmate? Our astrological signs aren’t even a match,” he states. Perhaps that astrological incompatibility could prove perilous for Chelsea, as it seems her life is potentially more precarious with Rick by her side.

Rick & Chelsea’s Snake Show

Rick is under more pressure than usual following his relaxation therapy, and he’s frantic for some marijuana. Along with Chelsea, he ventures into town, where he purchases a large, loosely-packed joint which he smokes, revealing a more impulsive side of himself. In the street, he murmurs “Snake show,” pulling Chelsea towards a shabby snake farm. There, a man confronts cobras. Under the influence, Rick lets all the snakes loose. At one point, Chelsea warns him that the snakes are venomous. “They deserve the freedom to live,” Rick replies.

Indeed, one instance has a cobra sneaking up on Chelsea and delivering a venomous bite to her leg. Consequently, they hastily rush off to the hospital. Although this sequence of events seems somewhat hasty and uncomplicated, it does offer an intriguing insight into her relationship with Rick. The fact that she’s drawn close to this volatile, damaged individual might ultimately prove harmful and toxic for her. Later in the episode, within their shared bedroom, Chelsea comments, “Snakes are wicked, as written in the scriptures.” Rick offers a surprisingly profound and self-aware response: “Even malicious entities shouldn’t be treated with disdain; doing so will only make them more malevolent.

As a discerning film connoisseur, I must admit that Chelsea’s situation is one I find myself pondering over. She’s bestowing affection and care upon Rick, a man who, in my humble opinion, hasn’t fully earned it. Yet, there seems to be a glimmer of change in Rick, a subtle blooming that might be attributed to Chelsea’s unwavering devotion.

Whether you see her actions as sweet persistence or potentially harmful codependence is up for interpretation. However, one thing she’s made clear: “If you kill me, I’ll follow you into the next life and the next. You’ll never shake me off.” This ominous statement hints at a potential tragic end for Chelsea in this season. Fervently, I hope she manages to navigate through the metaphorical storm that lies ahead.

Jason Isaacs and the Ratliff Boys

Jason Isaacs delivers another outstanding performance as Timothy, whose escalating anxiety leads him to disconnect. With the FBI having searched his U.S office, and his lawyer urging him not to speak with anyone before contact, he chooses to ignore their calls. When Timothy’s workplace attempts to reach him through his son Saxton (Patrick Schwarzenegger), Timothy hands over both phones to Pam at the resort, along with their smartwatches, laptops, and tablets. He yields not only to the electronic-free policy of the resort but also succumbs to Pam’s persuasion, taking her prescription medication for anxiety, either Lorazepam or Ativan.

In a clear and natural manner: It’s evident that Timothy employs manipulative strategies, tinged with desperation, as he convinces his son to surrender his phone. He skillfully exploits Saxton’s daddy issues and yearning for approval by saying, “I’m really impressed by you. Your future career is going to be extraordinary.”

Moreover, we notice the initial signs of Timothy’s subtle efforts to ready his family for hardships, redirecting their attention away from wealth and luxury. His statement, “We both understand the satisfaction work brings, but there must be more to life than success,” echoes his daughter Piper (played by Sarah Catherine Hook), who is often underutilized in the narrative.

In the wellness session, Lochlan discovers that his hunched stance is more mental than expected. Throughout the series, Lochlan has been portrayed as neutral, much like Switzerland in his family. This aspect is highlighted in ‘The White Lotus’, where the posture coach queries him, “You interact with people on the level of reality, but what is your true reality?” Unlike Piper and Saxton who have distinct personalities, Lochlan seems to lack a separate identity from them. In certain instances, this theme takes on an unsettling sexual connotation within ‘The White Lotus’. Regarding his posture, he’s advised, “You’re shielding yourself behind your feminine side.

Greg Is Gary, Tanya Is Dead, and Belinda Is in Trouble

Before everyone handed over their electronic devices, Lochlan (Sam Nivola) continued to watch another tsunami video on his tablet, which displeased his mother. The manner in which Timothy watched the video showing a man being swept into the sea suggested thoughts of self-harm. This was reminiscent of something Charlotte’s friend, Chloe (played flawlessly by Charlotte Le Bon), mentioned in the episode when she spoke about “Gary” (previously known as Greg) and his ex-wife.

As a passionate film enthusiast, I must say that I can’t help but reminisce about the unforgettable Tanya McQuoid, portrayed by Jennifer Coolidge, and her on-screen spouse Greg, played by Jon Gries. Tragically, Tanya is no longer with us, following a turn of events where Greg apparently hired ruffians to take her life. However, I’ve heard whispers that she chose to end her life herself, as they say she “strolled into the ocean and didn’t stop,” a poignant image that resonates in the video Lochlan and his father watch together.

Simultaneously, Natasha Rothwell (known for her humor and down-to-earth charm) is immersing herself in wellness practices taught by the Thai team, enjoying every moment alongside wellness guru Dom Hetrakul. However, there’s one minor inconvenience – Greg, whom she remembers from Season 1 in Hawaii. She confides in Pornchai about her past interactions with Tanya and Greg.

As a dreamer yearning for independence, I had hoped this affluent woman would assist me in launching my own spa, a venture I’ve always aspired to lead. Naturally, she bailed out, fleeing with a stranger she’d just met. Yesterday, I encountered someone, and though I can’t quite place him, I think he might be…

Belinda gradually stops talking and gently challenges Greg, who is feigning the identity of the previously mentioned Gary. He refuses any connection to Tanya or spending time with her, having seemingly gone to great lengths to separate himself from this past after benefiting financially from Tanya’s demise. Belinda senses something fishy, and soon she may find herself questioning her own safety in a more significant manner.

A Weak Subplot Gets Slightly More Interesting

The storyline this time around for the three friends feels more engaging compared to previous episodes, even though it still includes the old plot about suburban women gossiping and scheming. However, this season seems to handle these elements better. Their dinner conversation is particularly intriguing, as Laurie (Carrie Coon) and Jaclyn (Michelle Monaghan) discover that their friend, Kate (Leslie Bibb), has become a conservative Christian who voted for Donald Trump in the latest U.S. election. This unexpected revelation adds a fresh and relevant touch to the show, making it more relatable and up-to-date.

As a movie enthusiast, I find myself drawn to the character of Valentin from Vladivostok, portrayed by Arnas Fedaravicius, who serves as the wellness guide among the trio of women. Jaclyn, one of the characters, subtly suggests a romantic fling for Laurie with him, stating, “Laurie, you should give him a try.” Encouraging her to take the initiative, Jaclyn orchestrates an energy-healing session between Laurie and Valentin. However, as Jaclyn acts as the matchmaker, complications arise in their dynamic, adding a captivating layer to what has been the season’s most intriguing yet underdeveloped element: the exploration of romantic relationships.

In the latest installment of “The White Lotus” Season 3, the tale of characters Gaitok (Tayme Thapthimthong) and Mook (Lalisa Manobal) continues to be a lackluster subplot, with little development in Episode 3. Gaitok receives praise from Sritala following an attack by thieves in the previous episode, hinting that he’s on standby should she require further protection. This revelation irks her current bodyguards. Although their storyline is expected to pick up pace in upcoming episodes, at present it remains rather dull and unengaging.

The less impressive parts of “White Lotus” are still beautifully captured, thanks to Mike White’s direction. The show excels in music, cinematography, editing, and production design. A hilarious and skillfully edited sequence, featuring fire dancing at dinner, is a standout. The flickering torches above the dark waters serve as a chilling reminder of the impending disaster, leaving us eager for the tsunami to arrive.

Tune in to “White Lotus” Season 3 every Sunday at 9 p.m. EST/PST on HBO or stream it on Max. New episodes will drop weekly until the series concludes on April 6, 2025. You can catch up with “The White Lotus” using the link provided below:

[Link to watch The White Lotus]

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2025-03-03 14:32