Somewhere in Jersey? In Jersey??
I’ve said in the past that Sunny has taken some big, risky steps this season and they’ve mostly payed off. Tonight’s Sunny, taking place entirely in New Jersey, was quite the big, risky step.
On their way to an animal charity event in Atlantic City, the gang crash their car while taking the scenic route. Dennis and Charlie gradually make their way into the city, encountering a scary truck driver named Byron (played by Tom Sizemore). Meanwhile, Mac, Dee and Frank wander the woods while debating whether or not they should eat various woodland creatures. Once Dennis and Charlie make it to the event, they pose as Frank and Mac and party with Philadelphia Phillies players Ryan Howard and Chase Utley.
The theme of the episode was Charlie learning to say “yes” to new adventures. He begins the episode in the trunk of Frank’s care with a sack over his head because he freaks out whenever he leaves, or attempts to leave, Philly. This is just like the writers of the show deciding to try new things with the series. In the past, especially during the show’s more popular seasons, Sunny has been rigidly formulaic. The gang begin on the same page, split into two or three factions, be huge jerks and end up together again at the end of the episode. Not this season, though but it seems to be working.
Tonight’s guest stars shined especially bright this week. Tom Sizemore, who seems to be recognized more for his personal problems than his acting lately, was brilliant as Byron. Sizemore has the right look and gravelly voice for a road-weary truck driver, and brought a subtlety that the show can sometimes lack. Ryan Howard and Chase Utley also shattered by previously held belief that athletes make for mediocre at best guest stars. Howard and Utley seemed very natural in their line delivery when other athletes mostly seem wooden (I’m looking at you, The League).
What started as a slow, forgettable season has gotten really good, really quick. Way to save the best for (almost) last, guys.
Follow Us
