Summary
Sunny, the new sci-fi comedy from A24, boasts the best score for a genre that Apple TV+ has become known for. Although it doesn’t have the extensive catalog of Netflix or the enviable library of the Max streaming service, Apple TV+ has shown a particular affinity for science fiction shows that are headlined by some very recognizable actors. It continues down that path with the A24-produced ten-episodeSunny, starring Emmy-nominatedParks and Recreationactor Rashida Jones, who is returning to Apple TV+ after a pivotal recurring role in the breakout hitSilo.
OnRotten Tomatoes, both the critics' score and the audience’s score forSunnyis the highest rated among Apple TV’s sci-fi showsthat were released in 2024.With 35 reviews tabulated so far, with an average of 7/10, the dramedy adaptation boasts a91% critics' score. The score for audiences is also high, coming in at 86%. With only two episodes released so far, however, the audience score is subject to change since there are less than 50 ratings.
What’s Sunny About?
It’s A Dark Comedy About A Woman Who Lost Her Husband
Sunnymarks the second collaboration for Apple, A24, and Jones after the acclaimed Sofia Coppola dramedy filmOn the Rocks.
Sunny releases new episodes every Wednesdaythrough to the finale on September 4, with Jones leading as Suzie. While living in Kyoto, Japan, Suzie’s life is turned upside down when her husband and son disappear in a mysterious plane crash. To aid in her loss, she’s given a domestic robot made by her husband’s electronics company. Suzie initially dislikes Sunny’s efforts to enrich her life, but the two slowly develop a friendship. However, they also uncover the dark truth about what really happened to Suzie’s family, leading to dangerous discoveries.
Along with Jones,theSunnycastincludes Hidetoshi Nishijima, Joanna Sotomura, Judy Ongg, YOU, annie the clumsy, and Jun Kunimura.The sci-fi comedy is ran byThe Affairwriter Katie Robbins, who is among a team of executive producers that includes Jones and A24. Lucy Tcherniak, who previously directed episodes ofStation ElevenandThe End of the F***ing World, also executive produces and directs. On the whole,Sunnymarks the second collaboration for Apple, A24, and Jones after the acclaimed Sofia Coppola acclaimed dramedy filmOn the Rocks.
Sunny’s Rotten Tomatoes Score & Reviews In Detail
However, some of theSunnyreviews that lean positive, Lloyd’s included, mention that the series has pacing issues that plague other Apple TV+ Originals and caution that the story may not have a universal appeal due to an at times uneasy balance of sci-fi and comedy.
At 91%,Sunnycomes in wellahead of other Apple TV+ sci-fi series that have been released so far in 2024 by a comfortable margin. Some of these titles are clearly sci-fi, such as the short-livedConstellation, which was cancelled after one season and examined the topic of space horror.Dark Matter, based on the Blake Crouch novel, is also sci-fi and heavily leans into the genre. The other two shows,Sugarand the recently cancelled dramedyThe Big Door Prize, had elements of the genre to varying degrees.Sunnystill comes in ahead of all four.
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Positive reviews cited the strength of Jones' performance inSunny.Writing forW Magazine, Emily Maskell calls it a “career-best performance” for theParks and Recreationactor. The adaptation is likewise praised for being a pleasant watch, with Robert Lloyd of theLos Angeles Timesnoting: “it’s easy to watch — very nicely made, handsomely designed and photographed, with colorful minor characters and striking performances by the major ones.”
Sunny Episodes 1 & 2 Recap: Sunny’s Dreams & 11 Other Major Reveals
In its first two episodes, Sunny not only sets the stage for a compelling mystery drama but also presents a never-seen-before, unlikely detective duo.
However, some oftheSunnyreviewsthat lean positive, Lloyd’s included, mention that the series has pacing issues that plague other Apple TV+ Originals and caution that the story may not have a universal appeal due to an at times uneasy balance of sci-fi and comedy. But with a relatively shorter runtime and a standout performance from Jones, the new series isat least worth sampling.
Sunny
Cast
Suzie, an American woman living in Kyoto, Japan, grapples with the mysterious disappearance of her husband and son in a plane crash. Given a domestic robot named Sunny by her husband’s company, Suzie initially resents Sunny but soon they form a unique bond. Together, they uncover the dark truth behind her family’s disappearance, becoming entangled in a dangerous and hidden world.
