Sandman

I have to say I enjoyed The Sandman more than I thought I would. I have to admit I knew nothing of the comic or even heard of it so I had no expectations at all. It is definitely something different and unlike any show I've seen. The closest thing is American Gods but I stoped watching that in Season 2 as the quality of that show fell off after the first season. It has a solid 7.9 so it looks like most people seem to like it. I thought Tom Sturridge did an excellent job as the lead and Boyd Holbrook was just as good as one of the villains the of the story. The creator of the comic book (Neil Gaiman) is an executive producer so hopefully he'll have a big say as to where the story goes. It's already been renewed so I'm looking forward to more of the story.

If you ever thought Neil Gaiman's The Sandman was one of those "unfilmable" graphic novels, think again. Season 1 is a masterclass in adaptation, a rare win where the TV show not only respects the source material but elevates it with visuals and storytelling perfectly suited for the screen.

Right off the bat, this isn't your usual comic book fare. The Sandman dives deep into mythology, dreams, and existential questions, but never loses grip on emotional resonance or character complexity. The show captures that ethereal, otherworldly vibe with jaw-dropping visuals - think surreal landscapes, hauntingly beautiful effects, and moments that look like they've stepped straight out of a dream you can't quite shake. The production values here deserve a standing ovation.

Tom Sturridge's Dream (aka Morpheus) is pitch-perfect: brooding, distant, yet surprisingly human beneath that immortal exterior. He anchors the show with a quietly intense performance, making you believe in a lord of dreams who's as fallible as he is powerful. The supporting cast is equally strong, with standout turns that flesh out this intricate world without ever overwhelming the core story.

What impressed me most was the show's pacing and respect for its graphic novel roots. It's dense, yes, but never overwhelming or dumbed down. The writers clearly know their audience and trust us to follow the labyrinthine plot without spoon-feeding. This balance between faithfulness and smart adaptation is a tough tightrope, and The Sandman walks it with grace.

Neil Gaiman's original Sandman graphic novel series, first published in the late '80s and '90s, is widely regarded as a groundbreaking work in comics... a dense, literary, and darkly imaginative saga that redefined what graphic novels could achieve. Gaiman's ability to weave mythology, horror, fantasy, and philosophy into a cohesive, emotional story set a towering creative benchmark. The showrunners clearly understand and honour Gaiman's vision, preserving the complex themes and character depth while opening it up for a wider audience. Gaiman himself was closely involved, which no doubt helped maintain that authentic, unmistakable Sandman spirit.

If you're a fan of the graphic novel, this season will feel like a love letter brought to life. If you're new to the story, prepare for a richly layered journey that mixes fantasy, horror, and a touch of philosophical musing.

Season 1 ends on a note that sets the bar high for Season 2; and I'm buzzing to see where this dark, dazzling dream takes us next.

The Sandman - 64%

I've never read the entire comic, but I must say I loved the first six episodes. The remaining five chapters left a lot to be desired. At first, the series offers an interesting narrative, but it lacks character development; it's like watching a series without tension or clear direction. If they'd worked better on the narrative and the characters' performances (unconvincing and sometimes monotonous) starting with episode 7, it would have been more interesting. However, what happened during the casting? I wished Lucifer Morningstar had looked at least a little like David Bowie, as in the comic, but they cast a woman whose role would have been better suited Queen Grimhilde. Let's see what the second season has in store.

I knew nothing of the graphic series before watching this,, so I have no preconceived ideas of what this should or should not be.

It feels dark and gritty like a good graphic novel come to life. As one who enjoys a visual feast, I thoroughly enjoy the sets and details within each scene. I have watched the entire season at least 3 times and notice little things in every episode each time I watch.

I think that Tom Sturridge plays the part in an otherworldly spectacular way. I love the evolution of his character from distant, and godly, to one with a care for humanity. The premise of the "nightmares" is highly intriguing. Boyd Holbrook plays his character flawlessly. I despise him, but, at the same time can't stop watching when he is on the screen.

There are possibilities for growth and change within the series. I can't wait for season 2.

I thought the show was really great the first episodes, dark setting and interesting characters. Somewhere along the way I grew bored by the show however. I will probably watch the second season if it ever comes out since I am a fan of the novels. This was entertaining but the stark difference to how it started and how it ended made it less interesting for me. I hope the next season will focus on what made the first episodes so good. I think maybe sandmand will have a hard time to compete with all the upcoming franchises coming out this fall, I hope I am wrong though!

On another note, 600 characters requirement for a short user review is too damn long!