Apple TV+ ‘Sunny’ Episode 8 Review - Quirky Reflections on Trash and Treasure

"Sunny" Episode 8, titled "Trash or Not-Trash," is a whimsical yet introspective installment in the series. It takes us on a somewhat unexpected journey through Suzie's life as she tackles the universal, albeit mundane, task of decluttering. But, as with everything in this quirky series, what starts as a simple activity spirals into a far more significant examination of what we choose to discard and what we hold onto.

One of the most charming aspects of this episode is its ability to blend humor with deeper themes seamlessly. The dialogue is as sharp as ever, with Suzie’s interactions providing the perfect blend of sarcasm and sincerity. Rashida Jones continues to shine in her portrayal of Suzie, bringing a warmth to the character that makes even her most cynical observations feel relatable.

The episode also does a fantastic job of visual storytelling. The scenes where Suzie sorts through old memories—photographs, letters, and random knick-knacks—are shot with a tender touch that pulls the viewer into her emotional space. You can almost feel the weight of her decision-making process, the hesitance in letting go of things that once held significance.

Another highlight is the introduction of a new character, Mixxy, played by Annie the Clumsy. Mixxy’s offbeat energy injects a new layer of humor into the episode. Her quirky perspective on what qualifies as "trash" adds a fun twist, making the process of decluttering not just a chore, but an adventure. The dynamic between Suzie and Mixxy is a fresh and exciting addition to the show, and their contrasting attitudes towards life and possessions create a playful tension that keeps the episode engaging.

The animated sequences featuring Sunny, the voice of Suzie’s internal dialogue, continue to be a delightful and inventive way to convey Suzie's inner thoughts. In this episode, Sunny’s commentary on Suzie’s attachment to her belongings is particularly biting, yet funny, reminding viewers of how we often project our emotions onto inanimate objects.

While the episode excels in many areas, it isn't without its flaws. The pacing, for instance, feels a bit sluggish at times. The narrative lingers on certain scenes longer than necessary, which could leave some viewers feeling a tad impatient. The theme of letting go, although universal and poignant, is somewhat predictable, and the episode doesn’t quite manage to bring a fresh perspective to this well-trodden topic. There’s a sense that we've seen this kind of storyline before, both in other shows and earlier episodes of "Sunny."

Another slight drawback is the underutilization of the supporting cast. Characters like Masa and Noriko, who have added depth to previous episodes, are somewhat sidelined in this one. While the focus on Suzie is understandable, it would have been nice to see more interaction with the ensemble, especially since they bring a unique flavor to the show’s dynamic.

Despite these minor quibbles, "Trash or Not-Trash" is a strong episode that maintains the series’ trademark balance of humor and heart. It’s an episode that feels both light and reflective, giving us a glimpse into Suzie’s psyche while reminding us of the emotional weight that physical objects can carry. The addition of Mixxy is a welcome change, and her quirky chemistry with Suzie is something to look forward to in future episodes.

In the grand scheme of things, Episode 8 may not be the most groundbreaking installment of "Sunny," but it’s still a gem that fans of the series will undoubtedly enjoy. It captures the essence of what makes "Sunny" so special—a show that can make you laugh, think, and maybe even inspire you to declutter your own life, both literally and metaphorically.

Final Score - [7/10]