⚠️ Caution: The following discussion includes plot details from the Season 3 finale of “The White Lotus,” currently available on Max. Proceed with care if you wish to avoid spoilers!
Except for those transported in body bags, was there anyone who had a more unfortunate trip to Thailand than Saxon Ratliff? (or: Had a more regrettable journey to Thailand than Saxon Ratliff?)
Patrick Schwarzenegger‘s character in “The White Lotus,” an eager but shallow young finance executive, faced one setback after another during the third season. Whether it was being turned down by women, receiving disapproval from his crestfallen sister, or dealing with lies from a deteriorating white-collar criminal father, and, as rumors suggest, he even received a massage from his younger brother while they were under the influence of ecstasy.
In the gripping finale of last Sunday, Arnold Schwarzenegger skillfully portrayed significant twists in Saxon’s storyline. His holiday fling, Chelsea (Aimee Lou Wood), has given him spiritual books that could have made him realize that love is what he truly seeks. Growing frustrated with his evasive behavior and hostility, Saxon’s brother Lochlan (Sam Nivola) confronts him about their past sexual encounter, to which Saxon admits he wants to continue living in denial regarding the incident. Most troubling of all, it is revealed that he is the only family member who seems to grasp the severity of their father Timothy’s (Jason Isaac) financial misdeeds and how they will irrevocably alter the course of their lives.
In my perspective as a movie reviewer, I sat down with Arnold Schwarzenegger mere hours after the jaw-dropping finale to delve into the fervent reactions surrounding the incest plotline. We also tackled his creative visions for the character of Saxon navigating life without wealth or social status, and the intriguing omission of an entire hour from creator Mike White’s intended coda.
How about discussing the encounter between Saxon and Lochlan, where Lochan tells Saxon he engaged in that intimate act with his sibling due to being a “giver”. Can you share your thoughts on this explanation?
After Episode 6, the power balance among the brothers noticeably shifted. Lochlan appears to be struggling with his role as mediator within the family, always aiming to satisfy everyone’s needs. In essence, he finds himself in a literal predicament. Mike White’s writing is exceptional, and this season’s underlying message is that each guest who steps into the White Lotus undergoes a transformation, leaving behind their original selves.
In the finale, my scene with Sam felt like the final dot in a sentence, offering some form of resolution, despite the fact that Saxon can’t come to terms with what transpired between them. He can’t meet his brother’s gaze. He pleads for us to perpetuate our ignorance forever. It was a strange yet poignant moment as I told my brother I understood he simply yearned to escape.
Did you and Sam ever talk to Mike about what Saxon and Lochlan’s sexual orientation might be?
One of my audition scenes involved a poolside conversation between myself and two female characters who questioned me about kissing my brother. I responded by saying, “Yes, you did,” to which they replied, “We didn’t make him touch you inappropriately.” At the time, I wasn’t sure if this was part of an acting exercise or a real incident until I got the role. Prior to shooting, we made an effort to ensure everyone felt at ease, especially Charlotte [Le Bon], since we were all sharing a bed during filming.
Last week, I was tuned into a podcast, and someone proposed that the controversy surrounding the incest portrayed in the series might be due, in part, to the fact that it involves two males. In contrast, a similar situation in “Game of Thrones,” featuring an incestuous brother and sister, did not garner as much criticism.
Indeed, it’s crucial to note that “Game of Thrones” was set in a distinct universe – a historical fantasy backdrop. However, this new series seems more impactful due to its contemporary setting. While I agree that the themes might appear more intense, such as sibling rivalry or male-on-male relationships, it’s simply a reflection of the current direction the show has taken.
Have you found it less awkward that individuals such as your brother-in-law, Chris Pratt, and your father have witnessed your nude scenes on the show? Does the use of prosthetics in those scenes help you feel more comfortable while watching them?
Despite the discomfort, I’ve found solace in playing a role that isn’t my own. It’s not me, but it is what I do. I rely on Mike, who constantly pushes the boundaries. I was astounded by how effectively it unfolded. Initially, people would approach me endlessly expressing their dislike for my character. They praised me for playing such a convincing jerk, and shared various comments. But over the past four weeks, I’ve had people coming up to me saying, “I feel so much empathy for your character. He’s going through so much. I can’t believe I’m rooting for Saxon.” It’s fascinating to witness the level of investment from the audience.
Let’s discuss the emotional reunion between Chelsea, played by Aimee Lou Wood, and Rick, portrayed by Walton Goggins, on the beach in your scene. There are some poignant close-ups of your face that leave us wondering about his thoughts during that moment. Can you share what might have been going through his mind at that time?
Over the past two episodes, a deeper bond has been developing between him and Chelsea. She shares her passion for reading by giving him books, revealing to him that she sees Rick as her soulmate. This deeply touches her, yet Saxon struggles to comprehend it. He either laughs or scoffs at such sentiments, but then he witnesses her fleeing towards the sunset and leaping into Rick’s arms. In that instant, they shared a significant moment, forehead to forehead. Saxon is left contemplating, “Wow, could this be what I truly desire?
In this scene, instead of portraying a dramatic, heartfelt moment where Saxon is exceptionally kind to the girls, I was asked not to do so by Mike. He preferred a subtle shift in Saxon’s character at that point – a brief, tender moment and a lingering look as I watch her walk away into the distance, rather than any significant change for him yet.
I was eager for more details about where the Ratliffs were heading once they disembarked from the boat. It would have been intriguing to imagine some fictional news headlines. Can you speculate on Saxon’s destination, and will he be able to adapt to living in poverty?
I’m full of curiosity after watching the final episode! I can’t help but wonder if Saxon was aware that Chelsea had passed away. And when we turn on our phones, does that mean we learn everything about our father? Mike appreciates ambiguity and encourages such discussions. He filmed approximately two-and-a-half hours for the finale and compressed it to 90 minutes, which is a generous length even for HBO.
Was there ever a conversation about more exposition on that final boat ride for the Ratliffs?
The scenes were pre-planned before they were broadcast. Mike suggested that I should look towards my father when my phone rang – as they collaborate and the implications would be greater for Saxon.
Does Mike’s story appear to be a warning about capitalism, and did people quickly comment on this when it was released as the world economy was experiencing turmoil? Could it be that he’s making some kind of political statement with his narrative?
It appears Ratliff is pondering over a hypothetical scenario: if everything one identifies oneself with – wealth, profession, power, social standing – were to be stripped away, who would one truly be? Many people equate these material possessions with their worth, but they often find that such things do not guarantee eternal happiness. Intriguingly, the character Saxon initially exudes arrogance about money and personal relationships, only to end up bewildered. This transformation adds depth to his encounter with his brother, as they effectively swap roles. Saxon undergoes a profound internal struggle.
If Saxon can’t escape the shadows of his father’s scandal and needs a steady income to make ends meet, what occupation might he pursue? My guess would be working as a bartender, perhaps due to some peculiar reasons.
It’s uncertain if the whole family can fully heal from the shock. I suggested to Mike that he should create an April Fool’s prank, announcing a Ratliff spin-off as a fictitious reality show. It would surely bring laughter.
This interview has been edited and condensed.
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2025-04-07 09:47