Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · July 3, 2025 · Entertainment

The Sandman Suffers: Critics Call Season Two 'Pretentious Nightmare'

The Sandman season two has been branded 'so pretentious it has ruined everything' and critics have skewered Netflix for 'turning a dreamy tale into a waking nightmare'

NETFLIX'S SANDMAN SEASON 2 SINKS LIKE A STONE: CRITICS SLAM "PRETENTIOUS" EPIC FOR 'RUINING' THE FRANCHISE

The highly-anticipated second season of Netflix's Sandman has been met with a resounding thud, as critics pummel the series for its alleged over-the-top pretentiousness. The show, based on Neil Gaiman's bestselling graphic novel, has taken a nosedive in ratings, leaving fans and viewers alike wondering what went wrong.

Gaiman, the mastermind behind the original comic book series, is no stranger to controversy. Last month, he was hit with a slew of sexual misconduct allegations from eight women, which he has vehemently denied. In a statement released in January, Gaiman claimed, "I'm far from a perfect person, but I have never engaged in non-consensual sexual activity with anyone. Ever." The scandal has left many questioning the legitimacy of his involvement in the project.

Season one was released back in 2022 and was based on the bestselling graphic novel by Neil Gaiman

The Sandman's second season, which premiered on July 3, follows Morpheus (played by Tom Sturridge) as he embarks on a perilous journey across worlds to reclaim what was stolen from him and restore his power. With an all-star cast including Kirby Howell-Baptiste and Mark Hamill, the show had all the makings of a box office smash.

However, critics have been less than kind in their assessments of the series. The Guardian awarded it a paltry two out of five stars, declaring that Gaiman's "emo drama" is so over-the-top, it "ruins everything." The publication lamented the presence of a "fug of pretension" that "smothers" the show, adding, "missing every opportunity it creates for itself."

In direct contrast, Metro praised the series, awarding it four out of five stars. They urged viewers not to let Gaiman's scandalous past detract from their enjoyment of the show, arguing that "it's those playing the Endless who I found most impressive." This mixed bag of reviews has left fans torn between loyalty to the beloved comic book series and their disappointment with the latest installment.

The author was recently hit with sexual misconduct allegations from eight women, which he denies. Pictured: Stephen Fry as Gilbert, Vivienne Acheampong as Lucienne

The Independent was less than impressed, dishing out a meager two stars. They complained that the show felt like being trapped in "a whirlwind of plot and intrigue" but failed to materialize into something substantial enough to grasp. Meanwhile, The Telegraph sang the series' praises, describing it as "brilliant." However, they couldn't help but mention that Gaiman's involvement has left a shadow over the project.

The Wrap, on the other hand, hailed the show as "mesmerizing in the best way," defying the critical consensus. As the dust settles on this divisive series, one thing is clear: Netflix has taken a gamble with Sandman season 2 that may not pay off in the long run.

Gaiman's comic book series was first published between 1989 and 1996, but its journey to the small screen has been a long and winding road. Previous attempts to bring his beloved story to life were met with delays and setbacks until Netflix finally secured the rights in 2019. The first season shot to number one on Netflix's Top 10 list following its debut, leaving fans eager for more.

Starring Kirby Howell-Baptiste and Mark Hamill, amongst others, the new instalment launched on Netflix on July 3 has received mixed reviews

Despite the lukewarm reception of the second season, Gaiman remains steadfast in his defense of the project. With mixed reviews pouring in from critics and a scandalous past that refuses to fade into obscurity, it remains to be seen whether Sandman's epic tale will continue to captivate audiences or sink beneath the waves.

As for Gaiman, only time will tell if he'll emerge unscathed from this latest controversy. With his reputation hanging precariously in the balance, one thing is certain: the drama surrounding The Sandman season 2 has just begun to unfold.

So, grab some popcorn and settle in for a wild ride – but don't say we didn't warn you!

Sources:

  • The Guardian: "The Sandman's second season: a fug of pretension smothers the show"
  • Metro: "Don’t let the Neil Gaiman accusations ruin The Sandman season 2"
  • The Independent: "The Sandman season 2 review: A whirlwind of plot and intrigue but never solidifies"
  • The Telegraph: "Netflix's Sandman: a brilliant, if flawed, epic"
  • The Wrap: "The Sandman Season 2 Review: Mesmerizing in the Best Way"