He's not unhappy, 90s cool was all about attitude. Gold ("Ethan") smiles but it's more of a confident smirk akin to the ones the rivals sport. From Gen III onward, it's all about being more approachable. If it's not pleasant or cheery, it's just dopey. Smooth, no edges. There are people who thought Lillie and Kahili were going to be mean because of their expressions. Expressions leave impressions.
I don't think it's necessarily bad at all, they're generally good, though the newest MCs seem to appeal more to toddlers than anyone else.
