Written and directed by Mike White, The White Lotus continues to explore the complex interplay of characters and moral ambiguity in its seventh episode, “Killer Instincts.” This episode delves into the characters’ escalating tensions and increasingly questionable decisions.

Rick confronts Jim, the man he believes has ruined his life. Meanwhile, Saxon notices his brother Timothy’s strange behavior and presses him for answers. This happens as Saxon grapples with his own identity which he believes to be tied to his father’s success. Timothy dismisses his concerns, leading to a sense of distance between them.

Belinda refuses a bribe from Greg, who offers her $100,000 in exchange for her silence. Zion, however, urges her to accept the money. Meanwhile, Laurie, arguing with Jaclyn and Kate, ditches them in favor of attending a Muay Thai match with Valentin. Gaitok and Mook have their first date, though Gaitok is disappointed by Mook’s aversion to violence. At the Muay Thai match, Gaitok recognizes Valentin’s friends as the boutique robbers. 

Rick, in a fit of frustration, threatens Jim with a gun, but the situation ends in a shove rather than violence, leaving Rick to spend the night out with Frank, who relapses. Back at the resort, Piper is upset when Lochlan expresses his desire to stay at the monastery.

Laurie’s night takes a turn when she is alone with Aleksei, who tries to get her to give him $10,000 to help his mother escape Russia. The situation is cut short when Aleksei’s girlfriend arrives, giving Laurie the opportunity to escape through the window. 

Timothy, whose emotional stability has been crumbling, is seen fantasizing about violence toward his family and himself. His disturbed thoughts lead him to search for the gun he stole from Gaitok, but he finds it missing, leaving his intentions uncertain.

While “Killer Instincts” leans into its usual dark humor, the episode is filled with moments of real tension and discomfort. The scenes featuring Laurie and Aleksei are particularly unsettling, especially with the mounting anxiety about Laurie’s fate. Overall, “Killer Instincts” delivers a solid and engaging episode that continues the show’s usual exploration of moral complexity, flawed characters, and the inevitable consequences of their actions.

Rating: 7/10