Apple TV+ ‘Sunny’ Episode 4 Review - Sticky Situations

Episode 4 of "Sunny," titled "Sticky," continues to blend its unique mix of mystery, drama, and dark comedy, with a particularly gripping storyline that delves deeper into the underbelly of its narrative world. This episode takes us further into Suzie's (Rashida Jones) investigation into her husband Masa's enigmatic past, especially focusing on the newly revealed connections to the Yakuza.

The pacing of "Sticky" is both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it masterfully builds tension, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as Suzie uncovers shocking truths about Masa’s lineage. This episode's title aptly reflects the sticky, complex web of relationships and secrets Suzie navigates. The introduction of Hime (You), a chillingly composed adversary, adds an intense layer to the story, with You’s performance standing out as particularly memorable. Her quiet menace contrasts sharply with Suzie's more overt emotional turmoil, creating a fascinating dynamic that propels the episode forward.

The cinematography in "Sticky" is superb, capturing the stark, almost clinical feel of Suzie's environment as she spirals deeper into her quest for truth. The visual storytelling complements the narrative, using flashbacks to piece together Suzie’s fragmented memories of her life with Masa. These flashbacks are seamlessly integrated, enhancing the mystery by blurring the lines between past and present. It's a clever narrative technique that keeps the audience questioning what’s real and what’s imagined, mirroring Suzie's own doubts.

However, while the plot developments are engrossing, the episode sometimes struggles under the weight of its ambitious storytelling. The sheer number of secrets and the multitude of characters with hidden agendas can feel overwhelming, and the pacing, while generally effective, occasionally falters, leading to moments that feel unnecessarily drawn out. The balance between comedy and drama, which the show usually handles well, seems a bit off-kilter in this episode, with some of the comedic elements feeling out of place amidst the dark revelations.

One of the standout elements of "Sticky" is Rashida Jones' performance. She brings a depth to Suzie that is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, capturing her character’s vulnerability and determination. Jones's portrayal of Suzie's grief and confusion is particularly poignant in this episode, making her a compelling character to root for, even when the narrative becomes convoluted. Her scenes with Sunny, the domestic robot, continue to be a highlight, offering moments of levity and warmth that provide a necessary counterbalance to the darker themes.

The Yakuza subplot is introduced with a mixture of intrigue and menace, expanding the scope of the series and raising the stakes for Suzie. This addition to the storyline opens up new avenues for conflict and suspense, making it clear that Suzie’s journey is far from over. The episode leaves viewers with more questions than answers, setting up anticipation for the following episodes.

Despite its minor flaws, "Sticky" is a strong episode that reinforces the strengths of "Sunny" as a series. It’s daring, and unpredictable, and manages to keep viewers hooked with its complex characters and twisting plot. The creative team behind the show has crafted a world that is both engaging and unsettling, ensuring that "Sunny" remains one of the standout shows on Apple TV+ this year. If you’re a fan of mysteries with a touch of dark humor, "Sticky" is an episode that shouldn’t be missed.

Final Score - [7/10]