The world of television can be a tricky beast, and Apple TV's 'Sugar' is a prime example of a show that has taken an unexpected turn. While the first season may have had its fair share of behind-the-scenes drama, leading to a change in showrunners, it's the aftermath that has me intrigued.
The Rush to Resolve
One thing that immediately stands out is the rushed nature of the storyline resolutions. It's almost as if the writers wanted to tie up loose ends quickly, without giving much thought to the impact or the audience's investment. For instance, the Vega/Fire Sale arc, which had built up an air of mystery, was resolved with a mere wave of a hand. The introduction and arrest of a politician, someone we've never seen before, felt like a lazy attempt to wrap up a complex plot.
Missing the Mark
The show's focus on underground fighting rings and Sugar's sudden participation in them is a curious choice. It almost feels like the writers are trying to appeal to a different audience, one that enjoys the thrill of combat sports. However, this shift in tone and the lack of a proper send-off for characters like Danny Moon and his brother Ji leaves a sour taste.
A Sisterly Twist
The revelation about Sugar's sister Jen and his girlfriend Charlotte is a head-scratcher. It's as if the show is trying to introduce a new villain, but the execution is lacking. Jen's motives and her connection to the weather control McGuffins are unclear, and the fact that she's been alive all this time, working with Charlotte, raises more questions than it answers.
A Cinnamon Twist
The use of cinnamon as an incapacitating agent is an interesting choice, but the setting of the revelation is bizarre. Why choose a public event with people milling about? It's almost as if the writers wanted a dramatic moment, but forgot about the practicalities.
A Producer's Return
James Cromwell's return as the movie producer adds another layer of confusion. His character's acceptance of Sugar's alien status and the return of his dog feel like a convenient plot device, almost as if the writers wanted to tie up another loose end quickly.
A Show in Turmoil
In my opinion, 'Sugar' Season 2 feels like a show struggling to find its footing. The rushed resolutions, the sudden shift in focus, and the confusing revelations all point to a show that is trying to course-correct, but is doing so in a haphazard manner. It's almost as if the writers are trying to please everyone, but in doing so, they've lost sight of what made the show intriguing in the first place.
A Step Back
If you take a step back and think about it, 'Sugar' has the potential to be a captivating show with its unique blend of sci-fi and human drama. However, the execution in this season has been lacking, and it's a shame to see a show with such potential fall short. Perhaps with some reevaluation and a clearer vision, 'Sugar' could find its sweet spot again.
