Apple TV+ ‘Sunny’ Episode 5 Review - Joey Sakamoto Shines

"Sunny" has been a quirky ride so far, blending dark comedy with sci-fi in a way that makes you both laugh and think about the future of AI and humanity. Episode 5, titled "Joey Sakamoto," continues this trend with its unique flavor of humor and suspense.

Rashida Jones' portrayal of Suzie Sakamoto remains a standout. Her character is an emotional rollercoaster, juggling the mystery of her family's disappearance and her evolving relationship with Sunny, the AI robot. Suzie's journey is relatable yet surreal, and Jones brings a depth to her role that makes you root for her, even when things get bizarre.
The episode dives deeper into the backstory of Joey Sakamoto, Suzie’s son, and the emotional crux of the narrative. We get a glimpse of Joey’s life and the bond he shared with his parents, which adds a layer of poignancy to the overarching mystery. The flashbacks are handled deftly, providing context without slowing down the plot.

On the positive side, the episode excels in character development. We see Suzie struggling with her grief and Sunny attempting to understand human emotions, leading to some genuinely touching and funny moments. The dynamic between Suzie and Sunny is fascinating – it’s like watching a buddy cop duo where one is an emotionally complex human and the other is a well-meaning but often clueless robot.

Visually, "Joey Sakamoto" is stunning. The Kyoto setting is used to full effect, with beautiful cinematography that captures the blend of traditional and futuristic elements. The show's production design is top-notch, immersing you in a world that feels both familiar and alien.

However, the episode isn’t without its flaws. The pacing can be uneven at times, with certain scenes dragging on a bit too long. The humor, while mostly on point, occasionally feels forced. There’s a subplot involving a side character that feels like filler and doesn’t add much to the main story. It’s clear the show is trying to balance multiple tones and themes, but it doesn’t always succeed.

The central mystery of what happened to Suzie’s family takes some intriguing turns in this episode. We get new clues that hint at a larger conspiracy, which keeps the suspense high. Yet, the answers remain tantalizingly out of reach, making you eager for the next installment. The show’s ability to maintain this balance of revelation and mystery is commendable.

"Sunny" continues to be a thought-provoking exploration of grief, technology, and human connection. Episode 5, "Joey Sakamoto," encapsulates the series' strengths and weaknesses. It’s a visually arresting, emotionally rich, and occasionally uneven ride that keeps you invested in Suzie and Sunny’s journey.

In summary, "Joey Sakamoto" is a solid episode that advances the plot while deepening our understanding of the characters. It may stumble occasionally in its execution, but it’s undeniably engaging and leaves you curious about what’s next. If you’re a fan of sci-fi with a heart, "Sunny" remains a show worth watching.

Final Score - [6.5/10]