Here is a specific, high-quality encoding feature set for libvpx (VP9) tailored to that episode: This prevents the “plastic” look common in web encodes of the show.
# Pass 1 vpxenc --pass=1 --target-bitrate=1500k --tune=film --aq-mode=1 \ --fpf=stats.log -o /dev/null input.y4m vpxenc --pass=2 --target-bitrate=1500k --tune=film --aq-mode=1 --noise-sensitivity=2 --auto-alt-ref=1 --lag-in-frames=25 --fpf=stats.log -o white_lotus_s01e01.webm input.y4m One critical note: The White Lotus has opening credits with heavy moiré patterns (the painted murals). If those look bad, add --enable-cdef=0 but expect a 10–15% bitrate increase. Most people keep CDEF on and accept minor artifacts there.
For The White Lotus S01E01, a key feature to focus on when encoding with (VP8/VP9) is preserving film grain and fine texture while avoiding blocking artifacts in the many high-contrast, sun-drenched establishing shots (e.g., ocean, white resort walls, linen fabrics).
