Sam Catlin, the mastermind behind the critically acclaimed series 'Breaking Bad' and 'Preacher', has now turned his attention to 'Sugar', a neo-noir series set in the vibrant city of Los Angeles. Catlin's journey with 'Sugar' is a testament to his deep understanding of the television landscape, drawing heavily from his experiences on 'Breaking Bad'.
Catlin's approach to 'Sugar' is refreshingly unique. He introduces an alien protagonist, John Sugar, who is more human than most humans, and whose integrity sets him apart. This character, with his skeletons in the closet and ability to slide into violence, is a genuine hero, a refreshing change from the antiheroes that have dominated the landscape for over a decade. Catlin's decision to write a good guy after a long period of antiheroes is a bold move, and it pays off.
The show's setting in Los Angeles is a deliberate choice. Catlin, a self-proclaimed non-cinephile, has now watched at least 50 movies before The Godfather as research for the show. This is a stark contrast to his earlier preferences, and it adds a layer of depth to the series. The show's nostalgic noir detective elements, set in the '70s Los Angeles, are a nod to Catlin's introduction to the detective genre, and they add a sense of authenticity to the series.
Catlin's approach to writing 'Sugar' is meticulous. He steals and pillages from the cast and crew of 'Breaking Bad' as much as he can, and he emulates Vince Gilligan's style wherever possible. This attention to detail is evident in the show's writing, and it ensures that 'Sugar' has a cohesive and well-developed narrative.
The show's second season sees Catlin take on the role of showrunner, and he doubles down on the 'Breaking Bad' universe. He adds Tony Dalton, who plays the standout villain Lalo on 'Better Call Saul', and several other behind-the-scenes players. This extended family reunion is a deliberate design choice, and it adds a sense of continuity and familiarity to the series.
Catlin's commentary on the show's themes is thought-provoking. He discusses the show's honest portrayal of Los Angeles, and how it deals with real-life issues such as homelessness and fentanyl. He also talks about the show's exploration of the darker parts of human nature, and how it challenges the audience to think about the inherent hypocrisy of enjoying being a Los Angeleno.
In conclusion, 'Sugar' is a refreshing and thought-provoking series that draws heavily from Catlin's experiences on 'Breaking Bad'. It is a show that challenges the audience to think about the complexities of human nature, and it is a testament to Catlin's skill as a writer and showrunner. As the series continues to air on Apple TV, it is sure to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression.
