After a rather slow start, the show really picks itself up
After a long wait, Netflix’s The Sandman is out. Neil Gaiman’s iconic series set within the world of DC Comics has never really been seen in live action, except for a few characters here and there. Comic book adaptations often require a certain degree of faithfulness, and this is what usually divides its fanbase as well. But The Sandman has managed to deliver something truly exceptional.
The Sandman Story and Review
The story begins with an accident. In 1916, Occultist Sir Roderick Burgess (Charles Dance) and his followers carry out a ritual to capture Death. But they end up catching Dream (Tom Sturridge). Dream, also known as Morpheus, is a primordial being that is part of the Endless. He is the personification of all dreams and stories. He is a captive for 106 years, and gains freedom in 2022. Upon his escape, Dream has thing to look after. We see him coming across character, exploring their histories, then moving to the next. Everything is told in detail. Time is needed, as Dream is considering how to approach his existence.
As for faithfulness, there are some bits that seem new to fans. Then others follow word-by-word from Gaiman’s comics. Anxious fans of the characters will no doubt be relieved.
Setting Up More Seasons
Season one of The Sandman has its villain in The Corinthian (Boyd Holbrook), a charming, but horrifying nightmare. We also see Lucifer (Gwendolyn Christie) in a short role. But the show makes it clear that she will be back in the future. The show does a great job cross-cutting scenes, until they connect and collide by the end. While it is common in many shows, this one feels unique. Episodes that truly stand out are 5 and 6. A slight drawback is Dream sometimes is portrayed as too human, which is the writers’ attempt to humanize his look and character. But he has potential to grow and show his true power.
All that said, The Sandman is a beautiful, artistic story and has great potential to be bigger and better.
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