Mike White’s OG HBO Show: Enlightened

3/2/2025 - Just watched the pilot episode of Enlightened.

Damn, this was dope af watching it again, especially knowing that Mike White—the creator of The White Lotus—did this. With White Lotus Season 3 just dropped, it’s cool to revisit his earlier work.

Laura Dern was incredible. She brought such positive vibes with a character that completely flips what I'm used to on its head. She doesn’t just stay in one lane; she goes through real highs, lows, and everything in between. The transformation is so back-and-forth, and she’s kind of extreme in every area.

But there’s this positivity about her, especially in that work meeting. Why did they even have that meeting, by the way? She asks questions in this super positive way—almost like she’s reckoning with everyone and her space. She knows she’s owed something, and she’s getting screwed over, but at least she’s genuinely trying to move forward. She just keeps hitting these opposing forces. Some people are reciprocating, but not all. The guy she had an affair with is an asshole, and her mom can’t handle emotions so directly.

The turnaround at the end is interesting, though. I guess it makes sense not to want Laura’s character to read the letter directly to her mom’s face. It’s easier to read it privately than to confront all those raw emotions, embarrassment, and the vulnerability of admitting your flaws and acknowledging how you hurt someone. That kind of honesty is tough to receive.

This episode sets up so much. It gives us deep connections to the characters and drops symbols, like the turtle. I’m starting to see why Mike White is consistently so solid—so dope, even. The title Enlightened feels perfect. It nails the vibe and essence of the show, but it also hints at a darker edge.

Honestly, this rewatch is getting me so hyped. It’s bringing back my experience from all those years ago when I first binged it. I can’t remember all the details, just that it was surprisingly good. Those flashes of the coming episodes have me super excited to dive back in.