“The White Lotus” has taken over the world with its newest third season, which premiered February 16. Everything about this season, from vintage outfits to the captivating storylines of the characters, has consumed the internet ever since it was released.
The series director, Mike White, knows exactly what people are looking for in a perfect TV show. If you are unfamiliar with “The White Lotus," it is a series that takes place at a luxury resort in a beautiful location around the world. The show explores complex relationships between both the residents and staff.
As someone who has watched all three seasons, I was particularly in awe of the third season. Filmed at the Four Seasons Resort in Thailand, this season of “White Lotus” delves into complex wealth and power dynamics between characters as secrets are uncovered and new luxuries explored.
The references to Buddhist traditions and philosophy played such a huge role in the series. Mindfulness and “The Monkey Mind” were important themes throughout the season. This was used as a metaphor for the guests’ behavior, specifically a family of guests called the Ratliff family, mainly towards the siblings played by Patrick Schwarzenegger, Sarah Catherine Hook, and Sam Nivola. “The Monkey Mind” is a reference to the three wise monkeys: Hear no evil, speak no evil, see no evil.
The metaphor of “The Monkey Mind” appeared prior to their vacation to the “White Lotus” to foreshadow the consequences of their actions during their stay. Throughout the season, many conflicts occur, specifically the Ratliff dad having major work and money problems. He chooses to ignore the issues and live in the moment on their vacation as a way of denying their reality and maintaining the false image of their status.
The mother of the Ratliff family, played by Parker Posey, was a fan favorite. Posey stole the show with her emphasized North Carolina accent and the comic relief that her character brought to a show with such a dark plot.
“Parker Posey’s performance as Victoria Ratliff was hilarious and my favorite part of the show,” freshman Ella Joseph said.
Undoubtedly, the fashion and vintage treasures deserve their own article. This season of “The White Lotus” shone a new light on resort wear. The fabulous Alex Bovaird styled the outfits to perfectly match the personalities of each character, ranging from monochromatic boat day outfits to maxi skirts with eye-catching prints.
Fashion not only complemented the characters, but also acted as a type of symbolism and storytelling.
For example, Piper, played by the talented Sarah Catherine Hook, dressed conservatively toward the beginning of the season, as she has her mind set on being a monk and committing her life to Buddhism in Thailand. Piper, a member of the Ratliff family, plays a teenage girl who brought her family on this trip to explore Buddhism. However, when she visits the Buddhist monastery and ultimately decides that the lifestyle isn't for her, her fashion choice noticeably changes. From long-sleeve maxi dresses to mini skirts and crop tops, Piper’s character development mirrors her outfit choices.
In addition to being an internet sensation, “The White Lotus” is a show like no other. Every Sunday night for eight weeks, I was glued to the television, eagerly awaiting what the next episode had in store. I am going to miss counting down each day of the week until Sunday night, when nothing else matters besides what is happening in these characters' lives.
