The White Lotus – Season 2, Episode 3: “Bull Elephants” (Recap)

In the third episode of The White Lotus Season 2, titled “Bull Elephants,” the series delves deeper into the complexities of its characters, exploring themes of masculinity, fidelity, and self-discovery against the backdrop of Sicily’s luxurious setting.​

The Di Grasso Family: Confronting Generational Patterns

Dominic Di Grasso (Michael Imperioli) continues to grapple with his compulsive behavior. After a night with Lucia (Simona Tabasco) and Mia (Beatrice Grannò), he attempts to distance himself, citing a desire to change. However, his father, Bert (F. Murray Abraham), becomes aware of his actions, leading to a tense conversation about family patterns and the difficulty of breaking them. Dominic’s struggle highlights the challenges of confronting ingrained behaviors and the impact they have on familial relationships.​

Harper and Daphne: A Night in Noto

Harper (Aubrey Plaza) and Daphne (Meghann Fahy) embark on a spontaneous trip to Noto, where Daphne surprises Harper with an overnight stay in a rented palazzo. During their time together, Daphne opens up about her awareness of Cameron’s (Theo James) infidelities, revealing her coping mechanism of doing things that make her feel better, such as treating herself to luxuries. This candid conversation forces Harper to reevaluate her perceptions of relationships and the complexities of marital dynamics.​

Cameron and Ethan: Temptations and Revelations

Back at the resort, Cameron and Ethan (Will Sharpe) bond over activities like jet skiing. Their camaraderie leads to a night of partying, during which Cameron encourages Ethan to indulge in the resort’s hedonistic offerings. Lucia and Mia join them, and while Cameron engages in a sexual encounter with Lucia, Ethan resists Mia’s advances. This divergence in choices underscores the differences in their moral compasses and foreshadows potential conflicts in their relationships.​

Tanya’s Search for Clarity

Tanya (Jennifer Coolidge), feeling isolated after Greg’s (Jon Gries) departure, seeks guidance through a tarot reading. The reader suggests that Greg is in love with another woman and that Tanya’s current path may lead to self-destruction. Disturbed by the reading, Tanya ends the session abruptly. Later, she notices a mysterious man (Tom Hollander) observing her, hinting at new developments in her storyline.​

Portia and Albie: Navigating New Connections

Portia (Haley Lu Richardson) and Albie (Adam DiMarco) continue to explore their budding relationship. Albie’s earnestness and Portia’s desire for spontaneity create a dynamic of mutual curiosity. Their interactions are marked by moments of connection and hesitation, reflecting the uncertainties of new relationships.​

Themes and Symbolism

“Bull Elephants” delves into the concept of masculinity and the societal expectations placed upon men. The title itself references dominant male elephants, symbolizing the characters’ struggles with power, dominance, and vulnerability. The episode also examines the facades individuals maintain in relationships and the coping mechanisms they employ to navigate personal challenges.​

Conclusion

Episode 3 of The White Lotus Season 2 continues to unravel the intricate web of relationships among the guests at the Sicilian resort. Through candid conversations, unexpected revelations, and moments of introspection, the episode deepens the narrative, setting the stage for further exploration of the characters’ complexities in the episodes to come.