White Lotus Season 2 Review ~ Dysfunction in a Beautiful Setting

White Lotus Season 2 follows various guests and employees at a Sicilian resort for a week as their dysfunctional lives intersect and possibly implode. I did watch Season 1 of White Lotus and thoroughly enjoyed it. But it is a completely unrelated story and not required in order to watch Season 2. The only similarities between the two seasons are that Tanya (Jennifer Coolidge) and her husband, Greg (John Gries), have reappeared at another White Lotus Resort, this time in Sicily. They are joined in this resort by Tanya’s assistant, two local prostitutes, two young wealthy couples vacationing together and a family looking for their Sicilian roots. Each person has their own story and some of them cross paths with each other in positive and negative ways. The show still has that same underlying creepiness as well. Bad things are definitely going to happen.

Fascinating characters

It’s hard to explain why I like this show so much. But I love it! Even more than the first season. The characters are fascinating, even the unlikeable ones. Jennifer Coolidge is great as Tanya. She is wacky and awkward but also dynamic and powerful. I laughed every time she was on the screen. Aubrey Plaza (Parks and Recreation) and Will Sharpe play Harper and Ethan, a newly wealthy married couple on vacation with Ethan’s questionable friends. They definitely had me feeling more than any other characters on the show. They go through a multitude of emotions throughout the show and I believed what they were feeling.

Maybe not for everyone but…

I can see how this show may not be for everyone. It’s a bunch of characters doing bad things with little repercussions for their bad behaviors. But, it’s a little like watching a train wreck. You just can’t look away. It’s a satire. It will make you cringe at times. But it’s also so good. I was highly entertained and couldn’t wait to watch each episode. I was sad when it was over.

Breathtaking scenery

The scenery and architecture in Sicily in every episode is breathtaking. White Lotus Season 2 was actually filmed at a resort in Taormina, Italy that overlooks the Ionian Sea just like in the show. Just about every scene in the show is complete with a beautiful view of Sicily.

Highly entertaining social satire

If you are into highly entertaining, twisty, risqué, social satires then this show is for you! Seriously, it is a blast to watch but it’s not exactly heartwarming. There are plot twists and mysteries and a few surprises. White Lotus has been renewed for Season 3 and I, for one, cannot wait! I would love to know your thoughts! Leave a comment after you watch!

Good Stuff: Plot twists, amazing scenery, great acting

Bad Stuff: Cringeworthy at times

Where to Watch: HBO Max