John Sugar: The Charming Detective of Apple TV’s Latest Series
John Sugar, portrayed by Colin Farrell, takes center stage in Apple TV+’s enthralling new detective series, Sugar. Set in Los Angeles, Sugar is a private investigator with a knack for finding missing people. From classic elements reminiscent of Raymond Chandler’s iconic hard-boiled Los Angeles PI, Philip Marlowe, to his affinity for vintage cars and old movies, Sugar represents the epitome of Hollywood’s romantic portrayal of detectives.
A Classic Chandler-Esque Case
Sugar’s first assignment in the series involves finding the missing granddaughter of Jonathan Siegel, a prominent movie producer. Despite being on a break, Sugar can’t resist the allure of Siegel’s plea, primarily driven by his admiration for the movies Siegel has produced. The quest to find Olivia Siegel, amidst the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, introduces Sugar to a cast of intriguing characters, including ambitious family members, Hollywood royalty, and an ex-rock star ex-wife.
A Not Your Ordinary Gumshoe
Unlike Marlowe, John Sugar does not fit the mold of a lowly gumshoe. He is a specialist in finding missing persons and is exceptionally good at his job. Clad in tailored Savile Row suits, he exudes an air of sophistication, residing in a lavish bungalow reminiscent of the famed Chateau Marmont. With his multilingual abilities, including Japanese, Arabic, and Spanish, Sugar effortlessly navigates diverse social circles. Supporting his work is Ruby, a British woman who serves as his manager, possibly his handler.
A Chivalrous Hero
Sugar stands apart from the typical hard-boiled detectives of the genre with his unequivocal chivalry. He treats everyone he encounters with respect, from chauffeurs and hotel maids to a homeless man seeking assistance. Rather than resort to violence, he offers his adversaries a chance to escape before he calls upon the yakuza. His inclination towards kindness and decency acts as a superpower in a world filled with moral ambiguity.
Farrell’s Captivating Performance
Colin Farrell delivers a compelling and heartfelt performance as John Sugar. Intricately weaving tenderness and melancholy, Farrell portrays Sugar as not just a man of honor, but a genuinely good man in an often dark and corrupt world. His portrayal serves as a refreshing departure from the typical antiheroes prominent in premium cable TV, demonstrating that decency can be captivating and offers a unique perspective rare in today’s media landscape.
