Definitely an interesting production. It feels like I am watching a noir film, but in a modern setting. Timeless story and personalities. Self-described addict to movies, which we see glimpses of from time to time, as if to show he imagines his life to be like one, with Bogart. The protagonist is a bit like a relict from the past. Lone gentleman in a suit, driving a vintage car, caring for the vulnerable, dealing with his own demons, longing for a mysterious woman, and who can see right through your deceit. Obvious allusions to the Golden age of Hollywood, but I also sense some inspiration by the French new-wave (inspired by the former). It also simply looks beautiful. I eagerly await new episodes.
EDIT after the finale - I love the topic of trying to understand what it means to be a human, the pensiveness and sensitivity of Sugar, the eerie quietness of every character, even the ones who are supposed to be aggressive.
I love film noir of all kinds and private dick yarns in particular. It‘’s my favorite genre and I think I’ve seen almost every P.I. film or show ever made.
Sugar started off ok with a couple of bad/cheesy moments. I was hoping they were not red flags for worse to come. But it did get worse, much much worse.
Episode 3 is laughably bad and Episode 4 is a catastrophe. What do you know, they changed director starting with Episode 3. They also added a second writer. Both of these changes took the show from pretty bad to super awful.
Not surprising it was produced by Collin. He may have wanted to see himself as a film noir hero but unfortunately he failed. What he created is a noir knockoff with not a single original idea. Then there’s the dialogue which is a caricature of film noir banter and the inner monologue’s a total snooze fest.
Collin’s acting is mostly ok but it’s hard to tell if he’s bad at times or if it’s just his character that is moronic. Most of the other acting is horrible. Where bad actors cast on purpose to give Collin a little lift? Eric Lange as Byron Stallings is particularly terrible.
I’m not surprised by the good reviews on Rotten Tomatoes (“real critics” or off much of the time IMO) but even all fellow commentators on Trakt so far have give this crapola their praise. Perhaps they commented after seeing only the first episode?
If you want to see some good noir and/or private detective shows/movies check out these lists on Trakt:
Private Eyes
https://trakt.tv/users/hirkiti/lists/private-eyes?sort=my_rating,asc
Loosely Noir
https://trakt.tv/users/hirkiti/lists/loosely-noir?sort=my_rating,asc
"Sugar" is a captivating series that masterfully blends the essence of classic hardboiled detective tales with a contemporary twist. As the lead character embodies the quintessential private eye persona, the show maintains a charming authenticity appealing to both genre enthusiasts and newcomers alike. The dialogue is sharp, the plot intricately crafted yet not overly convoluted, offering enough twists to sustain engagement.
The modern adaptation of the genre shines through in its portrayal of character diversity, adding depth and relevance to the narrative. Visually, "Sugar" pays homage to its noir roots while adopting a current aesthetic that complements its tone seamlessly.
Colin Farrell's portrayal adds gravitas to the character; despite its initial thinness, hinting at a complex inner life and promising character development. The series cleverly juggles between homage and self-aware parody, keeping viewers intrigued about its future trajectory.
The show's production quality, acting, and writing contribute to its allure, with its stylish cinematography reminiscent of classic noir films. Each scene serves a purpose, propelling the narrative forward without unnecessary filler, maintaining a fast-paced and engaging atmosphere.
Overall, "Sugar" is a delightful surprise, exceeding expectations with its blend of mystery, character depth, and nods to the genre's legacy. Whether you're a fan of noir or simply enjoy well-crafted storytelling, this series is undoubtedly worth your time.
As of posting this comment, I have watched three episodes, released thus far, and I reserve my right to revise my notes and opinions, based on how this show evolves.
Ohh lovely. Film noir, Colin F and an original idea. So far, so very good.
Very boring film noir style series. Sometimes it felt like a kids production. I can't believe Farell agreed ymti ths series! I feel like I totally wasted my time.
Anything Collin touches is gold. Such a talented actor, and director.
One of the best shows this year for sure.
Didn't expect the plot twist in the end
Sugar (2024) - :heart:x7
This show has Style! Style for miles! I can't wait for season 2.
How I rate:
1-3 :heart: = seriously! don't waste your time
4-6 :heart: = you may or may not enjoy this
7-8 :heart: = I expect you will like this too
9-10 :heart: = movies and TV shows I really love!
Great show... episodes are only around 35 minutes long, but lots of stuffed jammed into each episode.
Was a little confusing for the first couple of episodes and then it became clearer as it progressed till the end of episode 6 when it all made sense.
Nicely done!
8.5/10
So no one should made a review of a show , a whole show without watching the season. The show is spli in half, before and after the twist. While some people including me had said that it was a great way to impress and give something to see because the first 5 episodes were boring and the film noir not appealing. After that you get than WOW and especially the finalle was awesome.
Not a fan of Colin but he was flawless here. This needs to come back for a season 2
I haven’t been so mad at the movie or tv series for a long time. The series would be absolutely fine without the „twist”. It adds nothing. It only cheapens the plot and adds a piece of banale. Ugh, why couldn’t it have been just a noire detective plot.
A cool detective noir drama with a twist!
I appreciate how this leans into its influences and isn't shy about wanting to create a whole old-school vibe hand-in-hand with modernity. Is it "new?" It's a detective show, of course not. It's good. It's making an appreciable effort. It's well-written. There's a dizzying array of quick-cuts and free-hand camera-ing. Does it make things more interesting? It's a detective show, of course not, but it is self-aware enough to know how presumably exhausted the collective conscious should be of detective shows. I don't know if I"ve seen Colin Farrell in something I wasn't happy with his performance. It almost runs the risk of coming up cheesier than it means to be, but I think that's what separates classes of actors. It's the kind of show where I understand why people who review shows are digging it more than the audience, and depending on why/how you approach TV, both are right.
I am not a Colin fan. I don't like most of his films. Yet I found this show great.
I discovered it by chance. I was waiting for the Parish tv show with Esposito to drop, saw the first episode and hated it, so without a show to watch I looked at what other new shows were available. Enter Sugar, and what a treat I was in for.
Loved the premise, it was really well written and Colin's usual stressed demeanor fits like a glove to this character. Loving this so far 3 episodes in, can't wait for the rest. ATV does have great shows.
Shout by JohnBlockedParent2024-04-08T11:29:51Z— updated 2024-05-17T04:51:01Z
Unlike the other review I actually watched it and understood it, and enjoyed it. Very different and something new, in a good way. Look forward to more.
Edit: After watching the whole season wow, just wow,. Haven't enjoyed a show so much in a long time. Hope to see a season 2.