Chris Connor reviews the sixth episode of Apple TV+’s Sugar…
Sugar has hinted throughout its first five episodes, that something mysterious is afoot. In its sixth episode we get revelations that will perplex some viewers and that shifts what we think of the show entirely as it goes from a Neo Noir show to something more complex. Sugar finds who he thinks has apprehended Olivia, leading to a tense shootout and some of the best action in the series to date. It also becomes clear that Ruby has betrayed him, leaving him in the wind, still chasing Olivia.
Alongside this, we find out that David Siegel is still alive but has suffered life-changing injuries. Now that we know Sugar is an alien, sent to observe humans, reframes how we think of the series and events until now. It gives some explanation for his behaviour and abilities, speaking multiple languages and drinking an above-average amount of alcohol with no effect.
It is an intriguing point to introduce the otherworldly concepts in earnest with the producers confirming they considered introducing the ideas in the opening episode. What these twists do is broaden the shows scope and offer a different glimpse that have already unfolded, warranting rewatches. With plans for a second season, the blend of Sci-Fi and Neo Noir will offer a different type of show from the outset.
While the reveal of Sugar as a blue alien may put off some viewers, it makes the show a talking point and keeps it from being a derivative send up of 40s and 50s film noirs that it threatened to be, making its homages more linked to the plot and giving Sugar’s fascination with movies and culture all the more relevance.
‘Go Home’, is one of the most outlandish episodes of television in some time, rewriting what we think of everything about Sugar from its central investigation and suspects through our narrator and his thoughts. It gives Colin Farrell’s performance extra depth and meaning. It will be intriguing to see if it sticks the landing, especially with new elements woven into the core of its story with just two episodes to go.
Chris Connor
