In this new Apple TV+ show, Suzie (played by Parks and Recreation/Angie Tribeca's Rashida Jones), an American living in a future Japan where robot technology has advanced, is grieving the death of her husband Masa (Hidetoshi Nishijima) and her son in a plane crash. A coworker of Masa gifts her a robot named Sunny (voiced by Joanna Sotomura) that he created, which is a surprise to Suzie since she didn't know Masa worked in that field. Sunny turns out to be different than other robots with a stronger personality and more independence. Soon, Suzie and Sonny begin an investigation into the robot's creation, Masa's past, and his death.
This is a very unique work (not surprising that this produced from indie studio A24). It's a quirky combination of comedy, thriller, and science fiction. It's also a look at grief and loneliness. It isn't a show where everything is predictable.
Sunny has a wide of array of varied and well-defined characters. Jones gives what may be her best performance as Suzie and really sells her depression and grief. Judy Ongg stands out as Suzie's mother-in-law Noriko, who contrasts with her daughter-in-law by dealing with her loss by keeping busy instead of being angry.
As for the Sunny the robot, Sotomura makes the character instantly personable with an upbeat voice, but her switch to anger feels just as natural. Sotomura just has this punch to her. The design for Sunny is rather different than your usual TV/movie robots. She has this cute circular, minimalist look to her with a screen that provides her facial expressions.
Visually, the show looks nice with the use of colors. The creators seemed to have a good time with the Japanese sets and locations. There is a lot of Japanese culture in this, naturally since this takes place in the country, which serves as world-view for the unfamiliar. (I mean, I hope it's accurate. White American here. If this show is inaccurate or is a thin example of Japan, I apologize.)
Some may find Suzie's personality to be a bit standoffish, but I feel it works as part of her character and journey. The squeamish should understand that this is one of those shows where there isn't much violence, but when there is the show doesn't hold back.
Highly recommended. If you're looking for something new and engaging, check this out.
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