Years ago I read the highly acclaimed graphic novel by Neil Gaiman, “The Sandman.” Recently some friends started raving about the Netflix adaptation, so Megan and I have been watching it. We’re currently 7 episodes in.
I don’t remember much about the graphic novel other than how each chapter was often completely disconnected from the others. It was a robust exploration of the Sandman themselves, the concept of dreaming, and the Sandman’s siblings. I didn’t find myself missing an interconnected story (though there are a few recurring threads).
I had long forgotten two of my favorite chapters until we watched episode 6, in which they’re combined (it’s essentially two episodes in one). If you don’t watch any other Sandman content, I would highly recommend this episode, as it explores death and life in really beautiful ways.
*minor spoilers follow*
The first half is a conversation between the Sandman and Death. The big surprise–evident as soon as you realize who the Sandman is talking to–is that Death isn’t the classic grim, ghastly figure. Instead, they’re full of kindness and compassion as they visit various people whose time has come.
The second half depicts a series of meetings every 100 years between the Sandman and a man (to whom the Sandman has granted immortality). It’s a charming romp through history with plenty of concepts to reflect upon.
I’ve enjoyed The Sandman so far, and each of the episodes are truly unique, but this one is by far my favorite so far. If you’ve watched the series, which episode is your favorite? Have you read the graphic novel?
I have not read the entire blog as I am avoiding spoilers. This is a graphic novel that I’ve wanted to read for a long time (haven’t gotten around to it. Currently reading the Lumberjanes comics!), but when I saw there was a show about it I was hyped. I really love the aura of the show and the philosphies/thought-provoking ideas that are riddled throughout the dialogue. I am also so fond of how the “hero” of this story isn’t neccessarily likeable in ways that other heroes tend to be, but he is so alluring. I suppose that in it of itself is a metaphor for dreams…. I think me writing this just made me like the show even more haha