The Sandman

I didn't know the story is based on a comics - I found it out from the imdb reviews. I didn't even know what it's gonna be about, I just had a feeling I'd like it and when I had time, I binge-watched it. And I loved it.

I love the dark atmosphere and the gloomy Morpheus, the Greek mythology foundations, the way the characters are built and the way the story evolves. I don't mind the slow pace, it worked for me to create a dreamy state which is perfect for the story. Contrary to the reviews I saw, I enjoyed more the second part, because it is when we got some action and when the characters stopped being just weird.

I need to say it. There's too much wokeness and it hurts the story and shrinks the possible audience. Don't get me wrong - I don't mind people with different orientations. But if only 1/3 of the characters are not on spectrum, that bothers me. I cannot watch this with my partner, because even though the show is great, he wouldn't like that everyone is gay and/or trans. I wish the producers didn't go that wild with the gender assignments. I think more people would have enjoyed the show.

In any case, I'm looking forward to the second season because the quality of the story and the world-building gives me enough satisfaction to be able to ignore what I don't like. But well, I'm growing more and more tired of shows betting on sexuality to drive views.

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.

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!

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.

Having never read the books I wasn't really sure what to expect from The Sandman. Then after reading through the reviews and seeing how mixed they were I was even more confused about whether I should give it a try. I'm glad I did because I really enjoyed it. I just read that it got renewed for a second season so that's good news. It looks like most of the negative reviews are from people that are mad that it's not exactly like the source material and I've never got that. As long as it's entertaining...who cares. Movies and shows have to be adapted for tv and are just based off the source material. Less than 5% of the people who watch these movies and tv shows have actually read the book or comic it's based on.