Enjoyed this article but disagree on the point about Sam Rockwell’s monologue. I think that the purpose of the piece was to give the audience something to chew on— some depth to the show. It creates a picture of a type of toxic masculinity and explores the depths of it, rather than just dismissing it as “simply creepy.” While Rockwell’s character is somewhat unnerving, we do live amongst people like this and Mike White’s ability to seriously and satirically characterize them in a few minute monologue was bold and impressive. But it is definitely one of the more intense aspects of the series, not as light hearted as some of the other cultural commentary it makes.
All good points — and you’re right, it gave us something to chew on. I think my dismissiveness was a reflection of my personal way of dealing with people like this. Even though it made me flinch, I rewatched Sam Rockwell’s monologue and thought it echoed a bit of what the monk told Timothy later: “You cannot outrun pain.” Almost like a warning to Rick.
This was a fun read! I always love to hear what other people think about the same shows I'm watching. This season was a bit disappointing for me compared to the others-- especially the ending. There was a lot of promise for it to be really good and it just didn't feel like it delivered, compared to the first two seasons. I loved the inclusion of Buddhist teachings and ideas, but really hated that Gaitok was able to just suddenly overcome his Buddhist morals and shoot someone in the back. And Sritala wouldn't have wanted him for her bodyguard anyway because she had to scream at him several times to do it before he would act. There were too many things like that that didn't make sense or follow what the characters would have done. You mentioned a few that I agreed with...like watching that boy make a smoothie in a gross blender after the dad said the milk went bad...what!? No one does that!! 😄🤢 And no dad tries to poison his family based on who says they can live without money...ridiculous.
Enjoyed this article but disagree on the point about Sam Rockwell’s monologue. I think that the purpose of the piece was to give the audience something to chew on— some depth to the show. It creates a picture of a type of toxic masculinity and explores the depths of it, rather than just dismissing it as “simply creepy.” While Rockwell’s character is somewhat unnerving, we do live amongst people like this and Mike White’s ability to seriously and satirically characterize them in a few minute monologue was bold and impressive. But it is definitely one of the more intense aspects of the series, not as light hearted as some of the other cultural commentary it makes.
All good points — and you’re right, it gave us something to chew on. I think my dismissiveness was a reflection of my personal way of dealing with people like this. Even though it made me flinch, I rewatched Sam Rockwell’s monologue and thought it echoed a bit of what the monk told Timothy later: “You cannot outrun pain.” Almost like a warning to Rick.
Yes to book recommendations in the future, please.
Also, loved this overall and a great read. Just finished the season finale last night.
Thanks Patrick! Glad you enjoyed reading this.🥰 I watched the season finale and share my thoughts here: https://nitnoithai.substack.com/p/white-lotus-finale-10-thoughts-from
This was a fun read! I always love to hear what other people think about the same shows I'm watching. This season was a bit disappointing for me compared to the others-- especially the ending. There was a lot of promise for it to be really good and it just didn't feel like it delivered, compared to the first two seasons. I loved the inclusion of Buddhist teachings and ideas, but really hated that Gaitok was able to just suddenly overcome his Buddhist morals and shoot someone in the back. And Sritala wouldn't have wanted him for her bodyguard anyway because she had to scream at him several times to do it before he would act. There were too many things like that that didn't make sense or follow what the characters would have done. You mentioned a few that I agreed with...like watching that boy make a smoothie in a gross blender after the dad said the milk went bad...what!? No one does that!! 😄🤢 And no dad tries to poison his family based on who says they can live without money...ridiculous.