Same Spirits, New Forms

"The White Lotus" S3 E1 transports viewers to the stunningly beautiful yet spiritually charged island of Koh Samui, Thailand. While the episode introduces a new cast of characters and sets the stage for another season of intrigue and dark humor, it lacks the immediate captivating energy of its predecessors.

The episode establishes the familiar formula of the series, showcasing a group of wealthy and privileged guests arriving at the luxurious White Lotus resort, each carrying their own baggage and hidden agendas. The introduction of the characters, including a dysfunctional family, a group of college friends, and a mysterious loner, hints at the potential for complex relationships and dramatic conflicts.

The cinematography is as breathtaking as ever, capturing the beauty of the Thai landscape and the opulence of the resort with stunning visuals. The soundtrack, a blend of traditional Thai music and contemporary sounds, adds to the show's unique atmosphere.

However, the episode's pacing feels somewhat slow, and the characters, while intriguing, haven't yet fully grabbed the viewer's attention. The humor, a signature element of the series, is present but less biting and satirical than in previous seasons.

The episode's ending, while hinting at potential danger and mystery, lacks the shocking impact of the previous season premieres. It leaves you with a sense of anticipation, but also a lingering question: will this season be able to recapture the magic and captivating energy of its predecessors?

Overall, "The White Lotus" S3 E1 is a decent start to a new season, offering a fresh setting and intriguing characters. However, it lacks the immediate spark and captivating energy that made the previous seasons so compelling. Hopefully, the upcoming episodes will delve deeper into the characters' complexities and deliver the sharp social commentary and dark humor that the series is known for.

At this point, this show has the same formula for the first episode of the season, and this one didn't deviate. The problem I have with these initial episodes is that they introduce the characters but don't progress the story as much as I hoped. The introduction also teases the shocking conclusion of the season, so I'm looking forward to it. So far, all three groups aren't appealing but I know it takes time. The Ratliff family seems boring and predictable, but there are some hints of family tension. The three middle-aged women haven't done too much for me but you can tell Laurie is jealous of the other two. Rick and Chelsea don't seem like a good match, so I'm not sure where their story is going. It's cool to see Belinda back, but I'm not sure why she's there yet, and seeing Greg is haunting. Beautiful setting, though. 3/5 stars.

It's White Lotus so obviously the plot will pick up and make for an intriguing story. That said, I found a lot of the dialogue to be like a rehearsal. Lot of lines meant for laughs that fell flat.

In addition, not many super intriguing characters. In seasons past, many had loads of charisma and it made for riveting TV. This year, 20 minutes in I thought, is that it? Lot of seemingly one dimensional people.

For example, older bro from Duke could be good, but they make him a caricature of a douche and even a creep, makes him less of a real person. Or the blond friend who keeps complimenting the famous one. Ok we get it, she's pretentious! Or how about the employee from season one? Mm mm not today nuh uh sista. Like..... *sigh*

I'm not giving up of course. It was still a good hour of tv. Just not to the standard we've come to expect.

The White Lotus season 3 premiere did not disappoint! Everything I love about the show is here. The slow building tension, the sharp and awkward social dynamics, and that feeling that something is just OFF beneath all the luxury. Right from the start, the relationships feel well established, and you can tell things are going to unravel in the best (or worst) way possible.

Thailand looks absolutely stunning, as does the hotel. The cinematography, soundtrack, and overall vibe - all perfect. The episode immediately pulls you in and makes you feel like you're there, which is something this show always does so well.

I saw a lot of buzz online about Lisa joining the cast, and I was honestly expecting to be let down since hype usually leads to disappointment. But she's great! I saw Grace Randolph's tweet, and after she gave positive comments on these actresses, I was especially curious about Lisa and Aimee's performances. Have to say they both delivered, and the whole cast is already bringing such strong energy.

Also, from the very first episode, you can tell something is going to happen with the siblings. It's HBO MAX, so nothing really shocks me at this point (Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon).

Overall, a strong opener, and I can't wait to see where this season takes us!

The White Lotus Season 3 kicks off with Episode 1, bringing a noticeable shift in setting and atmosphere compared to previous seasons. The action moves to a luxury resort in Thailand, introducing a fresh cast of characters. Among them, Mook, a friendly resort employee played by Lalisa Manoban-better known as Lisa from BLACKPINK-stands out. This marks her acting debut, an exciting transition from the music stage to the screen.

However, the tone and pacing of this season feel significantly different. I noticed a slower approach and a darker atmosphere, which may not sit well with longtime fans of the show. It seems to impact the tension and dynamics that made the previous seasons so engaging.

Despite these changes, creator Mike White continues to explore themes of class anxiety, mystery, and death, now set against the stunning backdrop of Thailand. The return of Belinda, the spa manager from Season 1, adds a sense of continuity, though the absence of some beloved characters from earlier seasons is noticeable.

Overall, Episode 1 of The White Lotus Season 3 offers a fresh yet different take on the resort's stories, showcasing both the strengths and challenges of its new narrative direction and cast.