We are drowning in comic book adaptations.  Nowadays, there is a TV show about any comic book character– from Batman’s butler, Alfred Pennyworth, to three entire movies centered on the character Hellboy. It’s at the point where major studies have seemingly exhausted every well-known comic book character. Spider-Man and Batman have essentially been done to death at this point. However, Netflix may just be ending this long-lasting run of unimpressionable adaptations with their spin-off of Neil Gaiman’s well-known, DC comic series “The Sandman.” Beginning in 1989, “The Sandman” graphic novels follow Morpheus, the Lord of Dreams, as he attempts to bring order to a chaotic human world. This comic is unlike other, more “traditional” comics, as Gaiman includes mythological characters from various cultures and numerous historical figures to craft his tale.  

Produced by Gaiman, the ten-episode Netflix series serves as an incredibly accurate adaptation of the original, allowing the comic to reach a new, larger audience. 

Tom Sturridge’s performance of Morpheus is ephemeral, allowing viewers to both accurately and personally experience the comic. Furthermore, the thrilling writing provides the opportunity for the audience to connect with and understand Gaiman’s unconventional ideas. For example, episode six becomes a pivotal point for the show, as scenes explore the concepts of death and friendship. Honestly, this episode may be one of the best in all of television this year.  

Despite the outstanding effort and success found in the first part of the series, in comparison, the latter half seems to move much slower and with less excitement. Additionally, the visual components in its cinematography and color grading fail to match the quality of the rest of the show. It’s truly a shame to have the brilliant colors of the comic be turned into muted blues and grays on the TV screen. 

Despite some unimpressive cinematography and lackluster character work in the later episodes, “The Sandman” is a great first step for a series with incredible potential. In a modern entertainment sphere inundated with poor comic book adaptations (I’m looking at you, “Thor: Love and Thunder”), it’s exciting to see one that stays true to the original, while also leaving a lasting impression.