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  • TV Review: ‘Wednesday’ Season 2, Part 2

    Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in episode 205 of 'Wednesday'. Photo: Helen Sloan/Netflix © 2025.
    Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in episode 205 of ‘Wednesday’. Photo: Helen Sloan/Netflix © 2025.

    Arriving on Netflix on September 3rd is the second part of ‘Wednesday’ Season 2, the four remaining episodes.

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    Jenna Ortega (‘Scream’)’s titular troublemaker has to recover from the events of the climactic first part before digging into yet another new mystery.

    The show also features Emma Myers (‘A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder’), Joy Sunday (‘Dear White People’) and, upgraded to regulars this year, fellow Addams family members Catherine Zeta-Jones (‘Chicago’), Luis Guzmán (‘Punch-Drunk Love’) and Isaac Ordonez (‘A Wrinkle in Time’).

    Related Article: TV Review: ‘Wednesday’ Season 2 Part 1

    Initial Thoughts

    (L to R) Gwendoline Christie as Principal Weems, Catherine Zeta-Jones as Morticia Addams in episode 205 of 'Wednesday'. Photo: Helen Sloan/Netflix © 2025.
    (L to R) Gwendoline Christie as Principal Weems, Catherine Zeta-Jones as Morticia Addams in episode 205 of ‘Wednesday’. Photo: Helen Sloan/Netflix © 2025.

    The first part of ‘Wednesday’s second season left things on a cliffhanger with our heroine injured after her latest encounter with rampant “Hyde” creature Tyler Galpin (Hunter Doohan). It had a lot to live up to, and while the new batch of episodes certainly have their high points, there is a big issue at its heart.

    Script and Direction

    (L to R) Lady Gaga as Rosaline Rotwood, Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in episode 206 of 'Wednesday'. Photo: Netflix© 2025.
    (L to R) Lady Gaga as Rosaline Rotwood, Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in episode 206 of ‘Wednesday’. Photo: Netflix© 2025.

    While the producers, including showrunners Alfred Gough and Miles Millar could be forgiven for sticking to what they know, the endless use of the Hyde creature is a problem as things get repetitive. Also, the first few episodes feel like the tail end of Part One, before a new story randomly takes over, and the two plots fit somewhat uneasily.

    The show remains as stylish and fun as ever, but the Hyde creatures are a weak spot –– some effects are decent, others are so cartoony as to truly stand out like a sore thumb.

    Cast and Performances

    Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in episode 206 of 'Wednesday'. Photo: Bernard Walsh/Netflix © 2025.
    Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in episode 206 of ‘Wednesday’. Photo: Bernard Walsh/Netflix © 2025.

    As expected, Jenna Ortega remains the MVP of the show, her deadpan delivery as on point as always.

    But she shares the spotlight with Emma Myers, who shines in particular when she’s swapping bodies with Ortega’s character for a chunk of an episode. The two performers are a delight playing each other, and it’s easily the most fun the season has.

    Elsewhere, the Addams clan are used decently, though poor Luis Guzmán still gets the short end of the stick as Gomez. Gwendoline Christie gets to have more fun playing Principal Weems as a spirit guide than she ever truly did in the first season.

    And while Lady Gaga’s cameo is fun in the moment, she’s more plot device than character.

    Final Thoughts

    Joanna Lumley as Grandmama in episode 206 of 'Wednesday'. Photo:Bernard Walsh/Netflix © 2025.
    Joanna Lumley as Grandmama in episode 206 of ‘Wednesday’. Photo:Bernard Walsh/Netflix © 2025.

    Though the second part of the season doesn’t quite live up to the first (those confused storytelling approaches didn’t help), there is still entertainment to be derived from the watching Ortega do her thing.

    The producers did at least find a way to weave (most of) the other Addams family members into the story, and the return of Gwendoline Christie’s Weems was a welcome, useful one.

    ‘Wednesday’ Season 2 Part 2 receives 75 out of 100.

    Thing in episode 206 of 'Wednesday'. Photo: Netflix © 2025.
    Thing in episode 206 of ‘Wednesday’. Photo: Netflix © 2025.

    What’s the story of ‘Wednesday’ Season 2?

    Wednesday Addams (Jenna Ortega), returns to prowl the Gothic halls of Nevermore Academy, where fresh foes and woes await.

    This season, Wednesday must navigate family, friends and old adversaries, propelling her into another year of delightfully dark and kooky mayhem.

    Armed with her signature razor-sharp wit and deadpan charm, Wednesday is also plunged into a new bone-chilling supernatural mystery.

    Who is in the cast of ‘Wednesday’ Season 2?

    • Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams
    • Emma Myers as Enid Sinclair
    • Joy Sunday as Bianca Barclay
    • Hunter Doohan as Tyler Galpin
    • Catherine Zeta-Jones as Morticia Addams
    • Luis Guzmán as Gomez Addams
    • Isaac Ordonez as Pugsley Addams
    • Steve Buscemi as Barry Dort
    • Gwendoline Christie as Larissa Weems
    • Lady Gaga as Rosaline Rotwood
    • Christopher Lloyd as Professor Orloff
    (L to R) Noah B. Taylor as Bruno, Emma Myers as Enid, Joy Sunday as Bianca, Oliver Watson as Kent, Georgie Farmer as Ajax in episode 205 of 'Wednesday'. Photo: Bernard Walsh/Netflix © 2025.
    (L to R) Noah B. Taylor as Bruno, Emma Myers as Enid, Joy Sunday as Bianca, Oliver Watson as Kent, Georgie Farmer as Ajax in episode 205 of ‘Wednesday’. Photo: Bernard Walsh/Netflix © 2025.

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  • TV Review: ‘The Sandman’ Season 2 Volume 2

    Tom Sturridge as Dream in episode 210 of ‘The Sandman’. Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.
    Tom Sturridge as Dream in episode 210 of ‘The Sandman’. Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.

    ‘The Sandman’ Season 2 Volume 2 receives 6.5 out of 10 stars.

    Released on Netflix on July 24th, ‘The Sandman’s second season –– and the show itself –– wraps up with five final episodes (plus a stand-alone, adapting ‘Death: The High Cost of Living, which premieres on July 31st) focused on the moody, doomy character of Dream (Tom Sturridge, ‘On the Road’) as here he reckons with the fallout from his actions in the first part of the season.

    Overseen by showrunner and executive producer Allan Heinberg (‘Wonder Woman’) the cast for the new season also includes Kirby (‘The Good Place’), Mason Alexander Park (‘National Anthem’), Esmé Creed-Miles (‘Hanna’), Adrian Lester (‘Mary Queen of Scots’) and Stephen Fry (‘Gosford Park’).

    Related Article: ‘The Sandman’ Season 2: More Narrative Drive from the Lord of Dreams

    Initial Thoughts

    Mark Hamill as Merv Pumpkinhead in episode 210 of ‘The Sandman’. Photo: Netflix © 2025.
    Mark Hamill as Merv Pumpkinhead in episode 210 of ‘The Sandman’. Photo: Netflix © 2025.

    And so we reach the end (for now, it remains valuable IP) of the road for the TV incarnation of ‘The Sandman’. With the second volume of the second season now on our screens, it’s time to find out if the series sticks the landing.

    Script and Direction

    Esme Creed-Miles as Delirium in episode 210 of ‘The Sandman’. Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.
    Esme Creed-Miles as Delirium in episode 210 of ‘The Sandman’. Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.

    Perhaps the biggest issue with the new run of episodes (something that could be levelled at the show as a whole) is one of pacing. There are endless (no pun intended) scenes of characters having weighty, doom-landed conversations in different fantastical locales.

    There are certainly big, dramatic moments that occur in this second part of the season, but we can’t reveal what they are (if you’ve read the source material, you’ll know), but the build up to it and the fallout are less dramatically satisfying as they might be.

    The series continues to look impressive, with some beautifully realized settings –– and director Jamie Childs has a real eye for an well-crafted shot.

    Cast and Performances

    (L to R) Jack Gleeson as Puck, Freddie Fox as Loki in episode 208 of ‘The Sandman’. Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.
    (L to R) Jack Gleeson as Puck, Freddie Fox as Loki in episode 208 of ‘The Sandman’. Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.

    Tom Sturridge once more anchors the show as the stoic Dream, and he manages to make the character watchable and compelling.

    There is memorable work from the rest of the Endless family, and the Fates (played by Nina Wadia, Souad Faress and Dinita Gohil) make for entertaining adversaries as they seek to see Dream answer for killing his own son.

    Final Thoughts

    (L to R) Souad Faress as Crone, Nina Wadia as The Mother, Razane Jammal as Lyta Hall, Dinita Gohil as The Maiden in episode 211 of ‘The Sandman’. Photo: Netflix © 2025.
    (L to R) Souad Faress as Crone, Nina Wadia as The Mother, Razane Jammal as Lyta Hall, Dinita Gohil as The Maiden in episode 211 of ‘The Sandman’. Photo: Netflix © 2025.

    While it is frustrating for the ‘Sandman’ adaptation to end with many stories left to consider –– the creative team’s claim that this was always the planned end point doesn’t totally fly, feeling more like PR spin following the fallout of creator Neil Gaiman’s misconduct and abuse allegations –– at least we got as much as we did.

    Premium streaming TV was certainly a better choice of landing spot for this sprawling, complex tale than trying to squeeze chunks of it into a movie. And there remains much to recommended this show, however limited.

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    What’s the plot of ‘The Sandman’ Season 2 Volume 2?

    After a fateful reunion with his family, Dream of the Endless (Tom Sturridge) must face one impossible decision after another as he attempts to save himself, his kingdom, and the waking world from the epic fallout of his past misdeeds.

    To make amends, Dream must confront longtime friends and foes, gods, monsters, and mortals. But the path to forgiveness is full of unexpected twists and turns, and true absolution may cost Dream everything.

    Who stars in ‘The Sandman’ Season 2 Volume 2?

    • Tom Sturridge as Morpheus, the Lord of Dreams
    • Kirby as Death
    • Adrian Lester as Destiny
    • Esmé Creed-Miles as Delirium
    • Barry Sloane as The Prodigal
    • Mason Alexander Park as Desire
    • Ruairi O’Connor as Orpheus
    • Freddie Fox as Loki
    • Ann Skelly as Nuala
    • Jack Gleeson as Puck
    • Stephen Fry as Gilbert
    Stephen Fry as Gilbert in episode 209 of ‘The Sandman’. Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.
    Stephen Fry as Gilbert in episode 209 of ‘The Sandman’. Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.

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  • TV Review: ‘The Sandman’ Season 2 Volume 1

    Tom Sturridge as Dream in episode 203 of 'The Sandman.' Photo: Netflix © 2025.
    Tom Sturridge as Dream in episode 203 of ‘The Sandman.’ Photo: Netflix © 2025.

    ‘The Sandman’ Season 2 Volume 1 receives 7 out of 10 stars.

    Released on Netflix on July 3rd, ‘The Sandman’ returns with the first batch of episodes from its second season, focusing once again on the machinations of stoic, powerful mythological figure Dream (Tom Sturridge, ‘On the Road’).

    Overseen by showrunner and executive producer Allan Heinberg (‘Wonder Woman’) the cast for the new season also includes Kirby (‘The Good Place’), Mason Alexander Park (‘National Anthem’), Esmé Creed-Miles (‘Hanna’) and Adrian Lester (‘Mary, Queen of Scots’).

    Related Article: Steve Coogan, Douglas Booth and More Added to ‘The Sandman’ Season 2

    Initial Thoughts

    Kirby as Death in episode 205 of 'The Sandman.' Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.
    Kirby as Death in episode 205 of ‘The Sandman.’ Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.

    It is almost impossible to discuss this new season of ‘The Sandman’ without addressing the Neil Gaiman elephant in the room. The original creator and writer of the classic graphic novel series from where the Netflix show draws its source material is facing some serious misconduct allegations, and that goes some way to explain why his presence has been all but vanished in the promotion for the second season.

    All of which is to say that we’re in a case of separating the art from the artist, and not dismissing the hard work that the creative team, crew and cast have put into the new show. ‘Sandman’ is a show that fans have been eagerly awaiting, and while it’s somewhat frustrating that Netflix has opted to dole it out in chunks (much as with ‘Stranger Things’ or ‘Cobra Kai’), this first “Volume” represents a satisfying story.

    Script and Direction

    Mason Alexander Park as Desire in episode 205 of 'The Sandman.' Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.
    Mason Alexander Park as Desire in episode 205 of ‘The Sandman.’ Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.

    The writers’ room, overseen by showrunner Allan Heinberg, is here adapting more of the beloved ‘Sandman’ stories, albeit with their own twist.

    We get to meet more members of the Endless family, including Destiny and Destruction (AKA “The Prodigal”) who all have their own ways of dealing with being anthropomorphic representations of abstract ideas.

    There is also pleasure to be found in the choices of stories this time around –– the likes of Thor, Loki and other Norse gods appear, as do Oberon and Titania, summoned to watch a production of the Shakespeare play in which they feature.

    This season features even more of a narrative drive than the first, tying together the various narratives in interesting, thoughtful fashion.

    Director Jamie Childs handled three episodes of Season 1 and returns to take over all of the second, bringing the same stylish visions to life.

    While there are moments that the effects don’t always quite live up to the imagination of the team, the show in general is still impressive.

    Cast and Performances

    Tom Sturridge as Dream in episode 205 of 'The Sandman.' Photo: Netflix © 2025.
    Tom Sturridge as Dream in episode 205 of ‘The Sandman.’ Photo: Netflix © 2025.

    Tom Sturridge remains the focal point of the show even the story sometimes wanders off without him. His Dream is a stoic, haunted character, and while he’s not always the most charismatic (by design), he’s still compelling.

    Around him, the other members of the Endless “family” have their own appeal, especially Mason Alexander Park as the preening, selfish Desire and Esmé Creed-Miles as the whimsical, sometimes psychotic Delirium.

    When the Endless are assembled, it’s always more entertaining watching their familiar dynamic –– my only problem? Needed more Death, since Kirby is the best of the bunch (and we’re promised an adaptation of one of the character’s best storylines, ‘Death: The High Cost of Living’ as a standalone episode later in the season).

    Elsewhere, new characters that make an impact include Dream’s son, Orpheus (Ruairi O’Connor), who plays an important part later in the season, and Ann Skelly, who impresses as Nuala, a member of Oberon and Titania’s royal court, who ends up making a big change in her life.

    Ann Skelly as Nuala in episode 203 of 'The Sandman.' Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.
    Ann Skelly as Nuala in episode 203 of ‘The Sandman.’ Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.

    There is also a welcome return for some of the supporting characters from Season 1, including Merv Pumpkinhead (voiced by Mark Hamill), Matthew the Raven (with the vocal tones of Patton Oswalt), and Vivienne Acheampong as Lucienne, the librarian who serves as Dream’s main assistant. Plus Hob Gadling, granted immortality, and who meets Dream every hundred years or so, has a solid scene early in the new season, with Ferdinand Kingsley bringing him to cocky, funny life.

    Final Thoughts

    Barry Sloane as Destruction in episode 206 of 'The Sandman.' Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.
    Barry Sloane as Destruction in episode 206 of ‘The Sandman.’ Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.

    Since this and Volume 2 (due on July 24th) represent the last ‘Sandman’ output we’ll be seeing for the foreseeable future, it’s at least reassuring that these are effective, well-crafted takes on the stories.

    Is it a perfect version? No, but it has enough verve and magic about to cast a spell.

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    What’s the plot of ‘The Sandman’ Season 2 Volume 1?

    After a fateful reunion with his family, Dream of the Endless (Tom Sturridge) must face one impossible decision after another as he attempts to save himself, his kingdom, and the waking world from the epic fallout of his past misdeeds.

    To make amends, Dream must confront longtime friends and foes, gods, monsters, and mortals. But the path to forgiveness is full of unexpected twists and turns, and true absolution may cost Dream everything.

    Who stars in ‘The Sandman’ Season 2 Volume 1?

    • Tom Sturridge as Morpheus, the Lord of Dreams
    • Gwendoline Christie as Lucifer, the Lord of Hell
    • Kirby as Death
    • Adrian Lester as Destiny
    • Esmé Creed-Miles as Delirium
    • Barry Sloane as The Prodigal
    • Mason Alexander Park as Desire
    • Ruairi O’Connor as Orpheus
    • Freddie Fox as Loki
    • Clive Russell as Odin
    • Ann Skelly as Nuala
    • Jack Gleeson as Puck
    Jenna Coleman as Lady Johanna in episode 206 of 'The Sandman.' Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.
    Jenna Coleman as Lady Johanna in episode 206 of ‘The Sandman.’ Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.

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  • Netflix’s ‘The Sandman’ Season 2 Adds Steve Coogan and More

    (Left) Steve Coogan to play Barnabas in season 2 of 'The Sandman'. Photo: Thomas Laisne. (Right) Douglas Booth to play Cluracan in 'The Sandman' season 2. Photo: Simon Annand.
    (Left) Steve Coogan to play Barnabas in season 2 of ‘The Sandman’. Photo: Thomas Laisne. (Right) Douglas Booth to play Cluracan in ‘The Sandman’ season 2. Photo: Simon Annand.

    Preview:

    • Steve Coogan, Jack Gleeson and more are joining ‘The Sandman’.
    • Adrian Lester and others are already aboard.
    • The Neil Gaiman adaptation is returning for a second season at Netflix.

    Given the expansive (and clearly expensive) scope of ‘The Sandman’s first season of Netflix, there was naturally wondering –– and worrying –– over whether a second would even be ordered.

    Fortunately, fans and more general audiences turned out in droves for that initial run of stories adaptation from the sprawling, iconic graphic novel series originated by Neil Gaiman from a heady stew of myths, legends, folklore and original ideas.

    With shooting long under way on Season 2, now we know who will be joining the cast, including Steve Coogan, Jack Gleeson, Indya Moore and others.

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    What’s the story of ‘The Sandman’?

    Tom Sturridge as Dream in 'The Sandman.'
    Tom Sturridge as Dream in ‘The Sandman.’ Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2021.

    In Season 1, the Sandman, aka Dream (Tom Sturridge) — the powerful cosmic being who controls all our dreams — was unexpectedly captured and held prisoner for over a century. Once he escapes, he must journey across different worlds and timelines to fix the chaos his absence has caused.

    In Season 2, the King of Dreams will come face-to-face — and go toe-to-toe — with the formidable rulers of Hell, Asgard, Faerie, and the realms beyond.

    Related Article: TV Review: ‘The Sandman’ 

    Who are the newest additions to ‘The Sandman’ Season 2?

    (Left) Ruairi O'Connor to play Orpheus in 'The Sandman' Season 2. (Center Left) Freddie Fox to play Loki 'The Sandman' Season 2. (Center Right) Clive Russell to play Odin in 'The Sandman' Season 2. Photo: Sally Mais. (Right) Laurence O'Fuarain to play Thor in 'The Sandman' Season 2. Photo: Joseph Sinclair.
    (Left) Ruairi O’Connor to play Orpheus in ‘The Sandman’ Season 2. (Center Left) Freddie Fox to play Loki ‘The Sandman’ Season 2. (Center Right) Clive Russell to play Odin in ‘The Sandman’ Season 2. Photo: Sally Mais. (Right) Laurence O’Fuarain to play Thor in ‘The Sandman’ Season 2. Photo: Joseph Sinclair.

    Here’s the most recent cast:

    Ruairi O’Connor is Orpheus, the poet, musician, and oracle, is the only child of Dream and the muse, Calliope (last seen in ‘The Sandman,’ Episode 111). Orpheus is an idealistic, romantic, young man – and very much his father’s son – until tragedy strikes and reveals to him the true nature of love.

    Freddie Fox (he/him) is Loki, the god of chaos. Loki is a charming, seductive shapeshifter. The smartest and most dangerous person in any room, Loki is utterly irresistible and never to be trusted.

    Clive Russell is Odin, the father of Thor, and blood-brother to Loki. He is a longtime ally of Dream’s, but finds himself driven to desperate extremes in his efforts to stave off Ragnarök.

    Laurence O’Fuarain is Thor, the storm god. With his hammer Mjollnir, Thor is brusque, rude, and driven entirely by his appetites –– for food and drink, for battle, and for sex.

    Ann Skelly is Nuala and Douglas Booth is Cluracan, royal emissaries from the court of Faerie. Nuala and Cluracan are siblings who are opposites in every way. Nuala is responsible, empathetic, and principled. Cluracan is an impulsive rogue who lives for pleasure. They disagree about everything, except their devotion to one another.

    (Left) Ann Skelly to play Nuala in 'The Sandman' Season 2. Photo: Misan Harriman. (Center) Jack Gleeson to play Puck in 'The Sandman' Season 2. Photo: Yellow Belly. (Right) Indya Moore to play Wanda in 'The Sandman' Season 2.
    (Left) Ann Skelly to play Nuala in ‘The Sandman’ Season 2. Photo: Misan Harriman. (Center) Jack Gleeson to play Puck in ‘The Sandman’ Season 2. Photo: Yellow Belly. (Right) Indya Moore to play Wanda in ‘The Sandman’ Season 2.

    Jack Gleeson is Puck, a malevolent hobgoblin who serves as the royal jester to King Auberon of Faerie. Puck is fascinated by mortals and enjoys nothing more than making sport of them for his own amusement. He’s also the inspiration for Shakespeare’s Puck in ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’.

    Indya Moore is Wanda, a professional driver and security agent for an exclusive travel firm. Wanda proves herself to be an indispensable guide on an Endless road trip to the waking world.

    Steve Coogan is the voice of Barnabas, the canine companion of the Endless’ prodigal brother. Barnabas is loyal and loving, but an outspoken cynic. He’s man’s best friend and man’s sharpest critic.

    We’ll also meet other members of Dream’s Endless family, including Adrian Lester as Destiny, Esmé Creed-Miles as Delirium, and Barry Sloane as The Prodigal.

    Who is returning from Season 1?

    Tom Sturridge as Morpheus / Dream and Kirby Howell-Baptiste as Death in Netflix's 'The Sandman.'
    (L to R) Tom Sturridge as Morpheus / Dream and Kirby as Death in Netflix’s ‘The Sandman.’

    Alongside Sturridge, returning cast includes other Endless such as Kirby as Death, Mason Alexander Park as Desire and Donna Preston as Despair.

    We can also expect to see (or hear) Patton Oswalt, Vivienne Acheampong, Gwendoline Christie, Jenna Coleman, Ferdinand Kingsley, Stephen Fry, Asim Chaudhry, Sanjeev Bhaskar, Vanesu Samunyai, and Razane Jammal.

    When will ‘The Sandman’ Season 2 land on Netflix?

    The streaming service has yet to announce when Season 2 might arrive, though we can’t imagine it’ll be before 2025.

    Comic book creator Neil Gaiman from Netflix's 'The Sandman' at San Diego Comic-Con 2022.
    Comic book creator Neil Gaiman from Netflix’s ‘The Sandman’ at San Diego Comic-Con 2022.

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  • ‘Wednesday’ Season 2 Adds Steve Buscemi

    Steve Buscemi in 'Boardwalk Empire'.
    Steve Buscemi in ‘Boardwalk Empire’. Photo: HBO Entertainment.

    Preview:

    • ‘Wednesday’ Season 2 will see Steve Buscemi join the ensemble.
    • He’ll appear alongside star Jenna Ortega.
    • The Netflix series has been a huge hit for the streaming service.

    Given that the first season was a gigantic hit for Netflix, the streaming service has naturally been eager to have work start on the second so as to capitalize on its pop culture consciousness awareness (translation: the series broke the record for hours viewed on the service and has been massive on TikTok).

    Yet it was stymied by the writers’ and actors’ strike last year, not to mention the increasingly busy schedule of star Jenna Ortega, who plays the title character, the eldest child of the Addams family.

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    Now, though, with production due to be underway any day now (with a location switch from the first season’s Romania to Ireland), news is finally starting to emerge, as Variety reports that Steve Buscemi is joining the cast.

    Related Article: TV Review: ‘Wednesday’

    Who is Steve Buscemi playing in ‘Wednesday’ Season 2?

    Steve Buscemi in 1996's 'Fargo'.
    Steve Buscemi in 1996’s ‘Fargo’. Photo: Gramercy Pictures.

    Official word on Buscemi’s character is naturally being kept in a locked dungeon for now, but according to Variety’s sources, he’s the new principal of Nevermore Academy, where Wednesday studies (and solves mysteries. And gets wrapped up in love triangles, much to her surprise and disgust).

    It’s not a job to be taken lightly –– the previous incumbent (Gwendoline Christie’s Larissa Weems) died by poison needle.

    Who else is in ‘Wednesday? Season 2?

    Catherine Zeta-Jones as Morticia Addams, Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams, Luis Guzmán as Gomez Addams, and Isaac Ordonez as Pugsley Addams in Netflix's 'Wednesday.'
    (L to R) Catherine Zeta-Jones as Morticia Addams, Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams, Luis Guzmán as Gomez Addams, and Isaac Ordonez as Pugsley Addams in Netflix’s ‘Wednesday.’

    Confirmed as returning so far are Ortega, Hunter Doohan (Tyler Galpin), Emma Myers (Enid Sinclair), and Joy Sunday (Bianca Barclay), who all stopped by last year’s big Netflix fan event to tease information on the new season.

    We’re apparently to expect another member of the Addams family showing up (so far the show has seen Catherine Zeta-Jones as Morticia, Luis Guzmán as Gomez, Isaac Ordonez as Pugsley and Fred Armisen as Uncle Fester), though details have yet to be released.

    What’s the story of ‘Wednesday’ Season 2?

    Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in 'Wednesday.'
    Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in ‘Wednesday.’ Photo: Vlad Cioplea/Netflix © 2022.

    Nothing else has really been revealed about the new Season, though Ortega has hinted at a focus more on the horror side than the teen romance angle.

    Here’s what she said on the Emmys red carpet:

    “I think everything is bigger. It’s a lot more action-packed. I think each episode will probably feel a little bit more like a movie, which is nice.”

    ‘Wednesday’ Season 2: The Showrunners Speak

    Director Tim Burton, Cinematographer David Lazenberg in 'Wednesday.'
    (L to R) Director Tim Burton, Cinematographer David Lazenberg in ‘Wednesday.’ Cr. Tomasz Lazar/Netflix © 2022.

    Here’s what co-showrunners Miles Millar and Alfred Gough said about Season 2 in 2023:

    “We can’t wait to dive headfirst into another season and explore the kooky, spooky world of Nevermore… We just need to make sure Wednesday hasn’t emptied the pool first.”

    Director Tim Burton (who executive produces and handled several episodes of Season 1) is expected to return for this one.

    When will ‘Wednesday’ Season 2 be on Netflix?

    Netflix has yet to confirm a date for the second season, but with filming only starting now and a likely effects-heavy post-production schedule, we can’t imagine it hitting screens much before the end of this year.

    Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in 'Wednesday.'
    Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in ‘Wednesday.’ Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2022.

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  • Netflix Renews ‘Wednesday’ for Season 2

    Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in 'Wednesday.'
    Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in ‘Wednesday.’ Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2022.

    Wednesday’ is currently still notching a healthy viewership for Netflix.

    There was much concern earlier this week when UK newspaper The Independent reported that Netflix might end up losing ‘Wednesday’ to Amazon because of the company’s giant deal to buy MGM.

    That gives Prime Video streaming service the rights to show pretty much everything that MGM has produced, and since that includes Addams Family content (the recent animated movies, for example were produced by MGM), it was speculated that ‘Wednesday’ could follow.

    But, as Indiewire is now pointing out, the deal for ‘Wednesday’ was struck some time before the sale of MGM was approved, so it’s more than likely that Netflix will be holding on to the show for the foreseeable future, especially since it continues to be one of its most-watched series.

    Plus, there’s a mention that Amazon has been willing to explore hosting content that isn’t exclusive to Prime Video, which means that ‘Wednesday’ could continue to find a home on Netflix’s servers for years to come, even if it does one day pack its dark-colored bags and make the move to Prime in later years.

    Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams, and Luis Guzmán as Gomez Addams in 'Wednesday.'
    (L to R) Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams, and Luis Guzmán as Gomez Addams in ‘Wednesday.’ Photo: Vlad Cioplea/Netflix © 2022.

    The series, which stars Jenna Ortega as the daughter of Gomez (Luis Guzman) and Morticia (Catherine Zeta-Jones), sees Wednesday headed to Nevermore Academy after being expelled from more regular schools because of her behavior.

    There, despite still feeling like an outsider, she’s actually able to make connections with fellow students (on both the friendship and unlikely romantic front), while also confronting a supernatural mystery and her own burgeoning psychic powers.

    ‘Wednesday’s cast also includes Gwendoline Christie, Riki Lindhome, Emma Myers, Hunter Doohan, Percy Hynes White and Moosa Mostafa, and the show debuted on Netflix on November 23rd.

    It has since become a huge hit for the streaming service, its second week drawing 5.3 billion views and topping the Nielsen US streaming chart. It has also generated plenty of viral content, especially Tik Toks recreating the character’s dance moves.

    Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in 'Wednesday.'
    Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in ‘Wednesday.’ Photo: Vlad Cioplea/Netflix © 2022.

    While Netflix has yet to renew the show, there are reports that creators/show-runners Alfred Gough and Miles Millar are already scouting locations, with plans in place for Season 2. And it’s not like the streaming service has a history of cancelling popular series it talks up and then abandons. Though the creators of ‘1899’ might have something to say about that. And ‘The Bastard Son and the Devil Himself’. And ‘Warrior Nun’. And…

    Look, while Netflix has been winning few friends among creators for clearing the decks of shows it considers unsuccessful despite big fan campaigns to save them, ‘Wednesday’ is in a whole other league. It’s a genuine sensation, up there with the likes of ‘Stranger Things’ for the company. So don’t go worrying that Wednesday’s child will leave you full of woe and leave its streaming home for now.

    UPDATE:  The streaming service has now officially renewed the show, including a statement from creators Gough and Millar: “It’s been incredible to create a show that has connected with people across the world. Thrilled to continue Wednesday’s tortuous journey into season two. We can’t wait to dive headfirst into another season and explore the kooky spooky world of Nevermore. Just need to make sure Wednesday hasn’t emptied the pool first.”

    There is also a video announcement…

    nMLsGr5V
  • TV Review: ‘Wednesday’

    Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in 'Wednesday.'
    Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in ‘Wednesday.’ Photo: Vlad Cioplea/Netflix © 2022.

    Now showing on Netflix, ‘Wednesday’ represents the latest attempt to bring ‘The Addams Family’ to screens, and one that succeeds partly because of its star.

    The Addams Family, which originated with Charles Addams’ single-panel cartoons and strips in the 1930s and 1940s, have long since been adapted in different formats, including TV series, a successful pair of movies and animated films.

    Now comes ‘Wednesday’, which, rather than featuring the entire family (though they’re there at the start and in a key episode midway through), focuses instead on their eldest child.

    Jenna Ortega stars as Wednesday, here presented in traditionally dark clothing and darker moods, more likely to be found studying autopsies that on social media like her classmates.

    Catherine Zeta-Jones as Morticia Addams, Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams, Luis Guzmán as Gomez Addams, and Isaac Ordonez as Pugsley Addams in Netflix's 'Wednesday.'
    (L to R) Catherine Zeta-Jones as Morticia Addams, Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams, Luis Guzmán as Gomez Addams, and Isaac Ordonez as Pugsley Addams in Netflix’s ‘Wednesday.’

    As the show opens, she’s been kicked out of her latest school for punishing the water polo bullies who picked on her brother Pugsley (Isaac Ordonez) by releasing piranhas in their pool.

    Despairing of finding a place where she might actually fit in, her parents––stylish, vampy Morticia (Catherine Zeta-Jones) and squat, smooth Gomez (Luis Guzmán)––sign her up for Nevermore Academy, where they studied.

    It’s seemingly perfect for her: a place for outcasts, creatures (such as werewolves and sirens) and those who society considers unusual to flourish with their peers. Yet even here, Wednesday feels like an outsider, initially unwilling to engage with the usual school activities outside of attending class.

    Her roommate, Enid (Emma Myers), a werewolf with her own family issues, is perky and friendly, and at first gets on Wednesday’s last nerve. Then there’s Principal Larissa Weems (Gwendoline Christie), a former classmate of Morticia and Gomez, who still bears a grudge against them for some mysterious reason (it won’t surprise you that this gets explored during the season).

    Gwendoline Christie as Larissa Weems in 'Wednesday.'
    Gwendoline Christie as Larissa Weems in ‘Wednesday.’ Photo Courtesy of Netflix © 2022.

    As she tries to make the best of it, slowly forming an unexpected social circle that shifts and warps in relatively traditional young adult fictional ways, Wednesday copes with the help of family aide Thing, a disembodied hand (played, with an effects assist, by Victor Dorobantu) bursting with personality who can say more with the flick of a finger than some can with a monologue.

    And Nevermore has its own challenges beyond the usual cliques and classes––there’s a strange creature lurking around and pupils are disappearing and a dark history to the local town that Wednesday’s burgeoning psychic powers will unlock.

    Created for TV by ‘Smallville’ veterans Miles Millar and Alfred Gough, this show also boasts the talents of Tim Burton, who would seem to be a natural fit for the ‘Addams’ style (he was actually offered the first movie but passed). And so it proves.

    With sparky, entertaining scripts and suitably gothic production design, ‘Wednesday’ proves to be a winner, full of imagination and ideas that put it ahead of the game for its genre.

    Moosa Mostafa as Eugene Otinger, and Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in 'Wednesday.'
    (L to R) Moosa Mostafa as Eugene Otinger, and Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in ‘Wednesday.’ Photo Courtesy of Netflix © 2022.

    Though Burton is usually found putting his unique stamp on projects, here he resists that urge––it’s not missing entirely, but it’s certainly toned down. Call it just enough to help the show have a specific look.

    Yet perhaps the main reason this succeeds the way it does is Ortega, who brings a dark vitality to the role. She completely owns the character, finding new layers (aided by the scripts and the show’s push to explore why she is who she is) to someone that we’ve seen before.

    That’s no easy task considering that the cast also boasts Christina Ricci, whose Wednesday in 1991’s ‘The Addams Family’ and 1993’s ‘Addams Family Values’ is still considered the gold standard. Ortega never feels like she’s channelling Ricci, but their Wednesdays are complementary, springing from the same source.

    Delivering certain lines as though they’re dripping with poison, and yet finding the humanity too, Ortega’s is an awards-worthy performance and more proof that she’s a rising star to watch.

    Luis Guzmán as Gomez Addams, and Catherine Zeta-Jones as Morticia Adams in 'Wednesday.'
    (L to R) Luis Guzmán as Gomez Addams, and Catherine Zeta-Jones as Morticia Adams in ‘Wednesday.’ Photo Courtesy of Netflix © 2022.

    Outside of Ortega, ‘Game of Thrones’ Christie puts in a solid performance as Weems, who is none too happy to have another Addams at the school. As for the family themselves, Zeta-Jones and Guzmán (whose Gomez is actually closer in design to the original cartoon strips than the movies’) do a lot with the little they’re given––because, after all, the show isn’t called ‘The Addams Family’. It’s fun to see them on screen, and the parents do pop in the episode focused on their past with Nevermore.

    Myers’ Enid plays well off of Ortega, bringing extra joy to the screen whenever she graces it, while enthusiastic early friend Eugene (Moosa Mostafa) is also a fun addition.

    Plus, while the character is usually a throwaway gag in scenes, Thing here has more of a part to play, serving as a confidante for Wednesday, while also sending intel back to the family. He’s brought to life in such a way as to totally seem real––he’s practically a magic trick, which makes sense since hand-actor Dorobantu is a magician in real life.

    And, while he shows up later in the show, Uncle Fester (Fred Armisen) is also entertaining, though sometimes perhaps too much of Armisen creeps through at times.

    Fred Armisen as Uncle Fester in 'Wednesday.'
    Fred Armisen as Uncle Fester in ‘Wednesday.’ Photo: Vlad Cioplea/Netflix © 2022.

    The male contingent of the school makes less of an impact, blandly filling their part of the story and the show does sometimes fall into the pitfalls of the YA genre, with less-than-thrilling romantic subplots and a few stock characters. But thanks to Ortega and her castmates’ commitment, ‘Wednesday’ still works.

    The show has been a big hit for Netflix––both in terms of viewers and viral content––and it’s not hard to see why. Season 2 would be a welcome surprise, as there’s plenty of story left to be told.

    ‘Wednesday’ receives 4 out of 5 stars.

    Jamie McShane as Sherrif Donovan Galpin, and Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in 'Wednesday.'
    (L to R) Jamie McShane as Sherrif Donovan Galpin, and Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in ‘Wednesday.’ Photo: Vlad Cioplea/Netflix © 2022.
    nMLsGr5V
  • New Trailer for Netflix’s ‘Addams Family’ Spin-Off ‘Wednesday’

    nMLsGr5V

    While we’ve met plenty of the Addams Family so far in trailers for Netflix’s new spin-off series ‘Wednesday’, there was one main character who had yet to be revealed. The streamer used the New York Comic-Con to unveil Uncle Fester, here played by Fred Armisen.

    In typical Fester form, he’s a bald, pale sort whom Wednesday (Jenna Ortega) initially suspects might be a threat, but is delighted to discover it is, in fact, her uncle. And though he claims to be traveling incognito, we’re not sure a dalmatian-spotted motorbike exactly lives up to that concept.

    With Ortega as the titular central character, ‘Wednesday’ charts her years as a teenager, albeit one who still favors dark tones and ice-cold seriousness.

    As for the rest of the family, we have Catherine Zeta-Jones as Morticia, Luis Guzmán as a Gomez who hews more closely to Charles Addams’ original comic strip version and Isaac Ordonez as brother Pugsley, the target of many of Wednesday’s schemes (though she will fiercely defend him as needed, too).

    Fred Armisen as Uncle Fester in 'Wednesday.'
    Fred Armisen as Uncle Fester in ‘Wednesday.’ Photo: Vlad Cioplea/Netflix © 2022.

    ‘Wednesday’, which of course draws from Addams’ work, sprung from the minds of ‘Smallville’ duo Alfred Gough and Miles Millar, who decided on a new direction. And while they never expected to, they secured the ideal creative partner in Tim Burton, who agreed to executive produce and direct the series.

    “He was interested in where it was going, the mystery of the show,” Gough tells Vanity Fair. “He had a lot of questions about the previous television work we’d done, like how we were able to achieve it. He really loved that you had time to be with Wednesday and explore the character and you didn’t have to wrap things up in an hour and 45 minutes.”

    ‘Wednesday’ is described a sleuthing, supernaturally infused mystery charting Wednesday Addams’ years as a student at Nevermore Academy. Wednesday attempts to master her emerging psychic ability, thwart a monstrous killing spree that has terrorized the local town and solve the supernatural mystery that embroiled her parents 25 years ago — all while navigating her new and very tangled relationships at Nevermore.

    Gwendoline Christie, recently seen in ‘Sandman’, is Larissa Weems, head teacher of Nevermore, and apparently no fan of the Addams clan, with an axe to grind stretching back years to her time as a classmate of Morticia.

    Gwendoline Christie as Larissa Weems in 'Wednesday.'
    Gwendoline Christie as Larissa Weems in ‘Wednesday.’ Photo Courtesy of Netflix © 2022.

    The cast also includes Thora Birch, Tommie Earl Jenkins, Iman Marson, William Houston, Luyanda Unati Lewis-Nyawo, Oliver Watson, Calum Ross, Johnna Dias Watson, Riki Lindhome, Jamie McShane, Hunter Doohan, Georgie Farmer, Moosa Mostafa, Emma Myers, Naomi J. Ogawa, Joy Sunday and Percy Hynes White.

    Also popping up – and providing an unexpected link to the movies – is Christina Ricci in an unknown role. She, of course, famously played Wednesday in 1991’s ‘The Addams Family’ and 1993’s ‘Addams Family Values’. Her character is one of the teachers at Nevermore.

    Though it might seem to be prime fodder for Halloween viewing, Netflix has decided instead to go for November 23rd, AKA the day before Thanksgiving. Perhaps the streaming service is looking to give frustrated families something to watch between giant meals?

    Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in 'Wednesday.'
    Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in ‘Wednesday.’ Photo: Vlad Cioplea/Netflix © 2022.
    Moosa Mostafa as Eugene Otinger, and Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in 'Wednesday.'
    (L to R) Moosa Mostafa as Eugene Otinger, and Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in ‘Wednesday.’ Photo Courtesy of Netflix © 2022.
    Jamie McShane as Sherrif Donovan Galpin, and Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in 'Wednesday.'
    (L to R) Jamie McShane as Sherrif Donovan Galpin, and Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams in ‘Wednesday.’ Photo: Vlad Cioplea/Netflix © 2022.
    Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams, Percy Hynes White as Xavier Thorpe, Joy Sunday as Bianca Barclay in 'Wednesday.'
    L to R) Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams, Percy Hynes White as Xavier Thorpe, Joy Sunday as Bianca Barclay in ‘Wednesday.’ Photo Courtesy of Netflix © 2022.
    Emma Myers as Enid Sinclair in 'Wednesday.'
    Emma Myers as Enid Sinclair in ‘Wednesday.’ Photo: Vlad Cioplea/Netflix © 2022.
    Hunter Doohan as Tyler Galpin in 'Wednesday.'
    Hunter Doohan as Tyler Galpin in ‘Wednesday.’ Photo Vlad Cioplea/Netflix © 2022.
    Riki Lindhome as Dr. Valerie Kinbott in 'Wednesday.'
    Riki Lindhome as Dr. Valerie Kinbott in ‘Wednesday.’ Photo Vlad Cioplea/Netflix © 2022.
    Luis Guzmán as Gomez Addams, and Catherine Zeta-Jones as Morticia Adams in 'Wednesday.'
    (L to R) Luis Guzmán as Gomez Addams, and Catherine Zeta-Jones as Morticia Adams in ‘Wednesday.’ Photo Courtesy of Netflix © 2022.
  • First Look at the Addams Family in ‘Wednesday’

    CEJIQZGG

    Tim Burton famously passed on the offer to make a movie based on Charles Addams’ famous cartoon strip family (they’d previously arrived on screens via a 1960s TV series). But he’s now fully involved in the upcoming Netflix TV series ‘Wednesday’, which as the title suggests, focuses on the eldest child of the family.

    The first trailer for the show explores how the ultimate troubled teen – not that she or her family would see her that way – has been expelled from a variety of ill-fitting schools through the years but might finally have a chance to fit in at Nevermore Academy, with which her parents have history. But even there, she faces issues (see more on that below).

    It’s a stylish and fun first proper peek at the series, as Wednesday (Jenna Ortega) gets revenge on jocks who have been tormenting brother Pugsley (Isaac Ordonez) by releasing piranhas in the high school athletes’ pool.

    And you can also see Ortega as Wednesday in a new image, with Catherine Zeta-Jones as mom Morticia, Luis Guzmán as dad Gomez, and Ordonez’ Pugsley.

    While people these days tend to associate Gomez with the suave, lithe Raul Julia from the 1990s movies (which Barry Sonnenfeld ended up directing), the intent here was to bring him back closer to the original illustrated version.

    “He wanted the silhouette to look more like the Charles Addams cartoons, which is Gomez shorter than Morticia, versus the kind of suave Raul Julia version in the movies,” co-show-runner Alfred Gough tells Vanity Fair.

    Catherine Zeta-Jones as Morticia Addams, Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams, Luis Guzmán as Gomez Addams, and Isaac Ordonez as Pugsley Addams in Netflix's 'Wednesday.'
    (L to R) Catherine Zeta-Jones as Morticia Addams, Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams, Luis Guzmán as Gomez Addams, and Isaac Ordonez as Pugsley Addams in Netflix’s ‘Wednesday.’

    “He’s also incredibly debonair and romantic, and I think he has all those classic ingredients of the Gomez that has come before, but he brings something also very different and new,” his colleague and fellow executive producer Mark Millar offers. “That’s something that was very important to the show – that it didn’t feel like a remake or a reboot. It’s something that lives within the Venn diagram of what happened before, but it’s its own thing. It’s not trying to be the movies or the ’60s TV show. That was very important to us and very important to Tim.”

    Gough and Millar came up with the original concept and are running the show, while Burton directs and produces.

    ‘Wednesday’ is described a sleuthing, supernaturally infused mystery charting Wednesday Addams’ years as a student at Nevermore. Wednesday attempts to master her emerging psychic ability, thwart a monstrous killing spree that has terrorized the local town and solve the supernatural mystery that embroiled her parents 25 years ago — all while navigating her new and very tangled relationships at Nevermore.

    Gwendoline Christie, recently seen in ‘Sandman’, is Larissa Weems, head teacher of Nevermore, and apparently no fan of the Addams clan, with an axe to grind stretching back years to her time as a classmate of Morticia.

    The cast also includes Thora Birch, Tommie Earl Jenkins, Iman Marson, William Houston, Luyanda Unati Lewis-Nyawo, Oliver Watson, Calum Ross, Johnna Dias Watson, Riki Lindhome, Jamie McShane, Hunter Doohan, Georgie Farmer, Moosa Mostafa, Emma Myers, Naomi J. Ogawa, Joy Sunday and Percy Hynes White.

    Also popping up – and providing an unexpected link to the movies – is Christina Ricci in an unknown role. She, of course, famously played Wednesday in 1991’s ‘The Addams Family’ and 1993’s ‘Addams Family Values’.

    Netflix has yet to announce when ‘Wednesday’ will arrive on the streaming service, beyond saying it’ll be in the fall. We’re thinking around Halloween might be the perfect spot. Perfectly terrible, and therefore perfect if we’re channelling Wednesday.

    Jimmy Workman, Christina Ricci, and David Krumholtz
    (L to R) Jimmy Workman, Christina Ricci, and David Krumholtz in ‘Addams Family Values.’
  • TV Review: ‘The Sandman’

    Tom Sturridge as Dream in 'The Sandman.'
    Tom Sturridge as Dream in ‘The Sandman.’ Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2021.

    Arriving on Netflix August 5th, ‘The Sandman’ is the culmination of years of efforts to bring Neil Gaiman’s classic graphic novel series to screens.

    Filmmakers including Joseph Gordon-Levitt (‘Inception’), Roger Avery (‘Pulp Fiction’) and Eric Heisserer (‘Arrival’) have all tried to crack the code and bring Gaiman’s story to theaters. But in all the years of trying, no one has gotten close to making it happen. And Gaiman has gone on record as saying that one or two of the scripts he’s written (not by those listed above) are among the worst he’s ever read, let alone adaptations of his work.

    You can imagine, then, the pressure on the team looking to bring it to Netflix. Fortunately, Gaiman is fully involved this time, and while he isn’t running the show as he did with Prime Video’s ‘Good Omens’, he’s had a lot of say in what ends up on screen, including co-writing the first episode with fellow executive producers David Goyer and Allan Heinberg (the latter of whom took the lion’s share of the work).

    And, with the longer time permitted by a season of television and the hefty budget/credibility provided by Netflix, it’s a relief to say that the show really works – for the most part, at least.

    Tom Sturridge as Morpheus / Dream and Kirby Howell-Baptiste as Death in Netflix's 'The Sandman.'
    (L to R) Tom Sturridge as Morpheus / Dream and Kirby Howell-Baptiste as Death in Netflix’s ‘The Sandman.’

    The focus of the comics’ series (co-created by artists Sam Kieth and Mike Dringenberg) is the titular Sandman, called Dream, but also known as Morpheus, among other titles. He is one of the seven Endless, a family of anthropomorphic godlike beings. The other Endless are Destiny, Death, Desire, Despair, Delirium (formerly Delight), and Destruction (also called ‘The Prodigal’).

    Adapting the first couple of volumes of the comics, the show kicks off with Dream (played by Tom Sturridge) unexpectedly captured and held prisoner for over a century by magician Roderick Burgess (Charles Dance) through the use of an incantation.

    Once Dream is able to finally free himself, he must journey across different worlds and timelines to fix the chaos his absence has caused.

    That’s a very basic summary, especially for the sprawling source material, which has generated reams of stories and spin-offs. The show doesn’t try to squeeze everything into these initial 10 episodes, but there is plenty to see, including a trip to Hell, a convention of serial killers, a beautiful visit with one of Death’s siblings and one terrible night for the customers in a diner.

    Boyd Holbrook as The Corinthian in Netflix's 'The Sandman.'
    Boyd Holbrook as The Corinthian in Netflix’s ‘The Sandman.’

    Like the comics before it, the series functions as almost a set of short stories, linked by the overarching characters of Dream, his family and various attendants/creations/humans. There’s an episodic feel to many installments, which means that if you’re not a fan of one, the next is likely to offer something you’ll enjoy instead.

    Early on, the story is burdened by the need to set itself up, to introduce the world to newcomers (and not frustrate those who have feverishly consumed the comic across the years) and offer a briefing on Dream’s tough situation.

    It helps that you have the likes of Charles Dance in the early going, bringing gravitas and grit to roles that could so easily be cartoonish, and if Sturridge takes a little while to warm up to playing such a tricky character as Dream, he does find his stride.

    Dream could be a massive cliché, the sort of whispering goth guy who looks like a young Robert Smith (of The Cure). In Sturridge and the writers/directors’ hands, he’s a complicated, conflicted creation, rocked by his entrapment and thrown off balance by the changes to his dreaming realm upon his return.

    Gwendoline Christie as Lucifer Morningstar in Netflix's 'The Sandman.'
    Gwendoline Christie as Lucifer Morningstar in Netflix’s ‘The Sandman.’

    His quest to reacquire his magical tools – a bag of sand, a helm that looks like gas mask affixed to a spine and a ruby with terrifying powers – is sometimes the least interesting story, feeling like watching someone play a video game and collect items while battling level bosses, but it’s still filled with enough of Gaiman and co.’s creativity and creatures to make it watchable.

    One particularly disappointing aspect is the fourth episode, ‘A Hope in Hell’. Despite boasting ‘Game of ThronesGwendoline Christie as Lucifer, it ends up a ridiculous, poorly executed (several big effects shots look like a 1990s TV drama) battle of wills where the outcome is never in doubt.

    That, however, is entirely balanced out by the sixth episode, ‘The Sound of Her Wings’, which features one of ‘Sandman’s most iconic and beloved characters, Dream’s older sister Death.

    Eschewing the usual cloaked skeleton or otherwise imposing figure, Gaiman instead imagines her as an impish young woman, with a cheery face and a kind word to guide humans from the land of the living to “the sunless lands” once they die. Brought to life on screen by ‘The Good Place’s Kirby Howell-Baptiste, she’s a show highlight, a charming and effusive counterpoint to Dream’s gloomy, wet-eyed meandering.

    Tom Sturridge as Morpheus / Dream and Stephen Fry as Fiddler's Green / Gilbert in Netflix's 'The Sandman.'
    (L to R) Tom Sturridge as Morpheus / Dream and Stephen Fry as Fiddler’s Green / Gilbert in Netflix’s ‘The Sandman.’

    Yet even he gets some real moments to shine in that same episode, with the other half of the running time given over to the story of Dream’s encounters with Hob Gadling (Ferdinand Kingsley), whom he first meets in 1389. The subject of a bet between Death and Dream, Hob gets his wish to become immortal and meets Dream every hundred years in the same tavern.

    We watch Hob’s fate rise and fall and Kingsley imbues him with real, deep emotion, crafting a character who watches the world change around him, sometimes using that to his advantage, other times suffering for it. It’s a magnificent performance and elevates the show around it.

    Other elements to recommend include Matthew the Raven, who aids Dream in his missions. A winning combination of superb digital effects and real birds, Matthew also benefits from a charming voice performance by Patton Oswalt.

    David Thewlis, meanwhile, brings pathos and cold sociopathy all at once to John Dee, whose ownership of Dream’s ruby goes very, very wrong. Thewlis is, in fact, like Kingsley, one of the actors whose performance is superior to the source material.

    David Thewlis as Dr. John Dee in Netflix's 'The Sandman.'
    David Thewlis as Dr. John Dee in Netflix’s ‘The Sandman.’

    ‘The Sandman’ may never please every fan in exactly the way they hope – this is an adaptation, don’t forget – but it’s faithful where needed, spirited and fantastical. It also doesn’t shave away the more brutal ruminations on the darker side of humanity.

    Faithful fans have waited many years to see the series realized; this might be as close to correct as it’s possible to get in the visual medium.

    ‘The Sandman’ receives 4 out of 5 stars.

    Kirby Howell-Baptiste as Death and Jenna Coleman as Johanna Constantine in Netflix's 'The Sandman.'
    (L to R) Kirby Howell-Baptiste as Death and Jenna Coleman as Johanna Constantine in Netflix’s ‘The Sandman.’