The White Lotus – Season 2, Episode 5: “That’s Amore” (Recap)

In the fifth episode of *The White Lotus* Season 2, titled “That’s Amore,” the luxurious Sicilian resort becomes a backdrop for escalating tensions, hidden desires, and unraveling relationships. As the guests navigate their intertwined lives, the episode delves into themes of fidelity, power dynamics, and the facades people maintain.

Harper and Ethan: Seeds of Distrust

Harper (Aubrey Plaza) continues to grapple with the discovery of a condom wrapper in their hotel room, a remnant from Ethan’s (Will Sharpe) night of partying with Cameron (Theo James) and two sex workers. Ethan, attempting to downplay the situation, insists that nothing significant happened. However, Harper’s suspicions grow, leading to a palpable tension between the couple. Their once-solid relationship begins to show cracks as Harper questions Ethan’s honesty and their mutual trust erodes.

Cameron and Daphne: Facades and Realities

Cameron, having engaged with Lucia (Simona Tabasco) and Mia (Beatrice Grannò), finds himself entangled in financial obligations he struggles to fulfill. Daphne (Meghann Fahy), seemingly unaware of her husband’s indiscretions, maintains a cheerful demeanor. Her obliviousness, whether genuine or feigned, contrasts sharply with Harper’s growing unease. The dynamics between the two couples highlight differing approaches to marital fidelity and communication.

Tanya and Portia: New Acquaintances

Tanya (Jennifer Coolidge) and her assistant Portia (Haley Lu Richardson) are drawn into the orbit of Quentin (Tom Hollander), a wealthy British expat, and his entourage. Quentin invites them to his opulent villa in Palermo, where Tanya is captivated by the lavish lifestyle and the attention she receives. Portia, meanwhile, becomes enamored with Jack (Leo Woodall), Quentin’s charming and flirtatious nephew. Their budding connection offers Portia a reprieve from her monotonous role as Tanya’s companion.

Albie and Lucia: Innocence Meets Experience

Albie (Adam DiMarco), feeling sidelined by Portia’s interest in Jack, finds companionship with Lucia. Unaware of her profession as a sex worker, Albie is drawn to her vivaciousness and warmth. Their interactions are marked by genuine connection, though the foundation is built on Albie’s ignorance of Lucia’s background. As their relationship deepens, the potential for heartbreak looms.

Mia and Valentina: Power Dynamics

Mia, seeking to advance her musical career, approaches Valentina (Sabrina Impacciatore), the hotel’s manager, for an opportunity to perform. Valentina, who has been grappling with her own suppressed desires, finds herself drawn to Mia. Their interactions blur the lines between professional ambition and personal longing, highlighting the complexities of power dynamics and unspoken attractions.

Themes and Symbolism

“That’s Amore” delves into the complexities of human relationships, examining how individuals grapple with temptation, deception, and the pursuit of fulfillment. The episode’s title, translating to “That’s Love,” is laced with irony, as the characters’ actions often contradict traditional notions of love and fidelity. The recurring motif of concealment—be it Ethan’s omission of the previous night’s events, Lucia’s undisclosed profession, or Valentina’s hidden affections—underscores the tension between appearance and reality. The episode invites viewers to consider the facades people maintain and the truths they choose to obscure.

Conclusion

Episode 5 of *The White Lotus* Season 2 intricately weaves together the narratives of its ensemble cast, revealing the undercurrents of desire, mistrust, and longing that pervade the seemingly idyllic resort setting. As relationships are tested and secrets begin to surface, the episode sets the stage for further unraveling of the characters’ carefully constructed lives.