The second episode of Apple TV+'s "Sugar", titled "Downer Town," continues to explore the multifaceted character of John Sugar, played by Colin Farrell. The narrative centers on Sugar's unique perspective on human decency, his alien heritage, and his involvement in a complex case.
Sugar's Philosophy on Niceness
Sugar's approach to human interaction is highlighted as a core theme. The character believes that niceness, often perceived as weakness, is in fact a powerful quality that the world needs more of. This is exemplified through his interactions with others, such as befriending a security guard by recommending a classic film and showing genuine interest in a waiter's career aspirations. He also demonstrates compassion towards a nurse who is being fired, recognizing the humanity in those often overlooked by society.
Despite his outward kindness, the series acknowledges the dichotomy of Sugar's existence. His client, Danny, points out that Sugar's inherent belief in the equality of all people does not align with his privileged lifestyle, which includes luxury accommodations and a substantial wardrobe. Furthermore, while Sugar identifies as an immigrant, his appearance as a wealthy, white male with expertly forged documents prevents him from fully comprehending the struggles faced by undocumented individuals or minority communities.
Unraveling the Mystery
Parallel to his personal reflections, Sugar continues his investigation into former senator Tyson Pavich, who has transitioned into a prominent tech CEO. Sugar suspects Pavich's current hiring activities, which involve science professors, are connected to the exposure and subsequent flight of his own kind from Earth. To aid his efforts, Sugar enlists the help of Val, a car thief encountered in a previous episode, recognizing the need for a partner to navigate his mission and alleviate his isolation as potentially the last of his species.
The central case involves assisting boxer Danny Moon in locating his missing brother, Ji. With assistance from Blaine, Sugar discovers that a mysterious man in black was observed following Ji before his disappearance. The investigation takes a dangerous turn as a gang known as EZ4 becomes involved, targeting individuals who match Ji's description. Through the help of medical examiner Tom Flyberg, Sugar accesses a deceased shooter's phone, revealing a photograph of Ji hidden in a hospital closet, used by the gang to identify their target.
Sugar's unconventional methods are again on display as he directly confronts a gang member to inquire about the individual who orchestrated the search for Ji. This direct approach, however, leads to the gang turning their attention to Sugar, culminating in an attack on him from a motorcycle after a staged chase. The episode concludes with Sugar in a vulnerable state, gazing at the stars, accompanied by the song "Stardust."
Deeper Connections and Criticisms
Beyond the central mystery, the episode offers poignant moments of human connection. Sugar's visit to the grandmother of a murdered friend of Ji's, where he voluntarily helps with household chores, underscores his capacity for empathy. This act of kindness prompts the grieving woman to assist him, creating a wordless scene of shared humanity.
However, the review also notes some weaknesses in the series, including predictable dialogue patterns rooted in genre conventions and a potentially stereotypical portrayal of Los Angeles's immigrant communities. The depiction of boxing gyms, tattoos, grieving relatives, and gang violence is described as both stereotypical and uninspired.
The overarching narrative suggests that the street gang EZ4 is unlikely to be the ultimate antagonists. The presence of the man in black, Senator Pavich, the intriguing Charlotte, and the inherent nature of the show hint at a more complex conspiracy, aligning with the established tropes of Los Angeles neo-noir where appearances are often deceiving, a theme that is amplified by Sugar's literal alien identity.