Netflix quietly released the first volume of The Sandman Season 2 on July 3, unveiling six new episodes of the long-awaited fantasy series. However, early reviews suggest the series may be struggling under the weight of both creative missteps and off-screen controversy.
Welcome back, Dream. The Sandman Season 2 is now playing. pic.twitter.com/vAW7sZJH4n
— The Sandman (@Netflix_Sandman) July 3, 2025
The show, adapted from Neil Gaiman’s iconic comic series, returns amid allegations of sexual assault against Gaiman — accusations he has vehemently denied. The controversy, combined with the show’s heavily stylized narrative, seems to have colored its reception.
🔻 What Critics Are Saying
Critics have largely panned the latest installment, citing a lack of humor, weak storytelling, and overly serious tone.
🗨️ Jack Seale (The Guardian)
“The Sandman is not short of ideas, but it smothers them all in a fug of pretension… Morpheus’ power to manipulate dreams is barely used.”
🗨️ Nick Hilton (The Independent)
“The show is neither gripping nor funny… Comic relief like Steve Coogan’s talking dog and Mark Hamill’s scarecrow janitor are rare. And Lenny Henry delivers one of the worst American accents ever committed to the small screen.”
🗨️ Stephen Robinson (The A.V. Club)
“What should be a laugh-out-loud fantasy adventure becomes a dour road trip… The Netflix version drains the original comic’s wit and charm.”
📺 Cast and Release Schedule
The show stars:
- Tom Sturridge as Dream/Morpheus
- Gwendoline Christie as Lucifer
- Boyd Holbrook as The Corinthian
- Charles Dance as Roderick Burgess
- Esmé Creed-Miles as Delirium
- Barry Sloane as Destruction
Volume 1 (Episodes 1–6) is now streaming, while Volume 2 (Episodes 7–11) is set to release on July 24. A bonus episode will drop on July 31.
Despite the stellar cast and source material, The Sandman Season 2 so far appears to be missing its magic. Fans now await Volume 2 with cautious hope that the series can reclaim its dreamlike spark.