Preheat the broiler and adjust oven rack so it is about 5 inches below the heating element. Place the corn on a broiler pan and cook for 9 minutes, turning every three minutes so the ears brown evenly on all sides.

While the corn is broiling, combine the oil, lime juice, cayenne, and sugar. Mix well to dissolve the sugar.

The corn should be slightly brown on all sides when you remove it from the oven. Stir the oil mixture well and use a pastry brush to brush it onto the corn. Serve hot.