a story that lives on for generations⏳
The Sandman, sadly, has come to an end.
Over 30 years ago, Neil Gaiman created a character, Dream of The Endless for DC Vertigo comics. DC Vertigo is an imprint of DC Comics that publishes comics with adult content that do not fit the restrictions of DC's main line. It was ended in 2019 and consolidated alongside DC’s other imprints into a single publishing line.
The creation of Dream—a character known by many names as given to him by the different generations of civilisation that know about him and his siblings on earth and across space, realms and realities—birthed The Sandman comics, a graphic novel about a being who represents Dreams and Nightmares but deals with so much existential angst and guilt. His story introduces us to the rest of The Endless, anthropomorphic personifications of seemingly basic but incredibly complex and fundamental aspects of human existence—Destiny, Death, Dream, Destruction, Desire, Despair, and Delirium.
After so many studios tried to adapt the graphic novels into live-action, Neil Gaiman refused due to creative differences plus most of the studios at the time were going to put out unsatisfactory and mundane adaptations, and if you ask me, I'm so glad he didn't concede because which studio was going to spend so much in creating the amazing realms in The Sandman for television?
Netflix signed the deal to produce the series in 2019 and gave Neil full creative liberty (well until season 2). He was actively involved in the production of the show’s first season which actively contributed to how good it was. Everything in the comics; discussion bubbles, frames and plot was adapted page by page, word for word in live-action with little additions here and there. Very telling of how timeless this story is. Nothing you see in the show is new. Nothing.
Now you understand the confusion of die-hard sandfams when Netflix announced out of the blue that they were wrapping everything up in season 2, as well as promised sequels of the show.
How on earth were they going to adapt 7+ issues of the 11 volumes in just one season??! It was expected that the show would continue for at least 4 more seasons. News began pouring in that other Neil Gaiman shows that were in production at various other studios were wrapping up abruptly. In addition, other shows and movies of his that were greenlit weren't going to happen anymore.
We got to find out later that Neil Gaiman was involved in a scandal. He was sued for Human Trafficking and Sexual Assault in the UK.
Heartbreaking. Reminds me of a very underrated subject of bane for men my pastor passionately enlightened us about in this year's Men's Conference—which I may not talk about in subsequent issues of this newsletter. (Unless you actively engage with and share this very issue).
Neil Gaiman was no longer involved in the production of season 2 but the showrunner, cast and crew who are also avid fans of the timeless comics made it their sole mission to stay true to the story.
I haven't watched The Sandman Season 2 yet. Honestly, I am in no rush to because I know how the story ends. I may have looked up how it ended after stumbling upon a tweet whilst reading the comics back in 2023.
However, I've seen a lot of clips that have convinced me that everyone involved in Netflix's The Sandman did an excellent job in telling the concluding parts of the story.
“I hope the people walk away with The Sandman with a better sense of self and a better sense of understanding the dysfunction of being human. […] how imperfect it is, how deeply troubled and confusing and beautiful and amazing each individual person is.
The show very much so is about the journey of discovering that and the journey of finding oneself.”
-Mason Alexander Park (Desire)
The Sandman is an amazing story. I pointed this out in this issue last year.
Notable cast mentions include:
Tom Sturridge: His acting gave life to the character, Dream but his voice gave it soul!
Kirby: Death has never looked so stunning and sounded so endearing in movies.
Mason Alexander Park: They are Desire.
Boyd Holbrook: I'd never have known teeth could be such beautiful villains.
This documentary is a look back at the making of the series. Tom Sturridge and executive producer, Allan Heinberg are joined by other cast and crew members to discuss the series’ most resonant themes and what they hope audiences take away from it.
Congratulations, you made it to the end. I would love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to leave a comment.
Have you watched The Sandman? What are your thoughts about the show?
Who is your favourite Endless and why?
What fantasy TV show is your all time favourite?
If you're interested in becoming an AFGZ Podcast contributor, your input is highly needed. Feel free to apply via the link below.
We're also looking for volunteers to join the AFGZ Team. Whether you're a video editor, content creator or a graphics designer, your expertise is needed and would be greatly appreciated.
Apply here.
Did you enjoy reading this? Help us shape future issues by filling out this quick survey.