Special Treatments

Just finished the second episode, and it feels like a mix of Nine Perfect Strangers, The Perfect Couple, and seasons 1 and 2 of this show. I also think the writing isn't as good as previous seasons, especially the dialogues given to the three women characters. They're so typical, and almost every one of their scenes feels the same. Even though the actresses playing these characters are attractive and their acting is fine, their roles seem to slow the show down.

So far, my favorites are Mook (super likable), Saxon (maybe named that because he always wants sex), and Chelsea. I hope Greg at least does something crazy, because right now, even though I want to watch the next episode, there's no excitement. The episodes don't end with big cliffhangers or anything interesting to look forward to, but it's still a good watch. 3/5.

"The White Lotus" S3 E2, aptly titled "Special Treatments," delves deeper into the lives of its guests and staff, revealing hidden tensions and simmering conflicts beneath the idyllic surface of the luxurious Thai resort. While the episode may not deliver any explosive revelations, it effectively builds intrigue and sets the stage for a captivating season of emotional entanglements and unexpected twists.

The episode explores the various "special treatments" offered at the resort, from traditional Thai massages to spiritual guidance and couples therapy. These experiences serve as catalysts for the characters to confront their inner demons, hidden desires, and strained relationships.

The dysfunctional family dynamic between the Spences and the Nixons takes center stage, with their contrasting personalities and clashing values creating a palpable tension. The introduction of Greg (Jon Gries), Tanya's husband from the previous season, adds a layer of intrigue and raises questions about his connection to the current guests.

The episode also delves into the lives of the staff, showcasing their own struggles and ambitions. Belinda (Natasha Rothwell) finds herself drawn to a wealthy guest, while the young receptionist, Mook (Lalisa Manobal), navigates a budding romance with a security guard.

The cinematography remains stunning, capturing the beauty of the Thai landscape and the opulence of the resort with breathtaking visuals. The soundtrack continues to blend traditional Thai music with contemporary sounds, creating a unique and immersive atmosphere.

While the episode's pacing remains somewhat deliberate, it effectively builds suspense and anticipation for the events to come. The ending leaves you with a sense of unease and curiosity, eager to witness how the characters' secrets and desires will unravel and what consequences await them in this seemingly idyllic paradise.

Overall, "The White Lotus" S3 E2 is a well-crafted and engaging episode that deepens the intrigue and sets the stage for a captivating season of emotional entanglements and unexpected twists.

Episode two didn't get any better and barely piqued my interest in the season. I have faith it will improve, just like the first two seasons, as the drama gets spicier. The cast just doesn't do it for me so far. The Ratliff family seems boring after two episodes. They all have unique personalities, creating tension, but I can't see them improving like the Mossbacher family did, for example. The most interesting is Rick and Chelsea. Chelsea is so adorable, and I love her character and accent. The three middle-aged women also seem catty and insufferable. The dialogue between them is so boring and fake but it seems like that's by design. Hoping this gets better, but I have faith it will. 3/5 stars.

What was once, truly one of the smartest and best written shows out there, has been reduced to flat characters, obvious stereotypes and wooden dialog. Will I watch until the end? Yes of course, but what happened to the writing?

For example, A smart, realistic strong black female character from season one, who was motherly and wise. The kind of person Anyone would look to for the answer in an emergency, has been reduced to what feels like a character from Scary Movie. One who hears something in a tree and quips "uh uh, I'm gettin up outta hurr". A family that COULD have depth, is each a boring flat stereotype plucked from any generic big budget movie.

Bottom line is so far, the show is well casted and visually stunning, but the writing feels like it was taken over by the Fast and Furious team.

Compared with S1 and 2, this season seems "off." Too many scenes that lack dramatic oomph. But the casting is so good that I'm still hooked. Love Parker Posey and Carrie Coon. Walton Goggins is really cast against type here, playing an inhibited and low-key character but I'm sure the shoe will drop soon.

The location is of course gorgeous and some plot threads are intriguing. What's going to happen with Tim's legal dilemma, what is the connection between Rick and Sritala's ailing American husband, and does Belinda really have no inkling at all what happened to Tanya and how her husband was connected? (I had the impression Tanya's assistant had enough info at the end of S2 to put it all together.)