Parents' Guide to The Sandman

TV Netflix Drama 2022
The Sandman television series poster

Common Sense Media Review

Polly Conway By Polly Conway , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 15+

Sumptuous fantasy drama adaptation has violence, scares.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 15+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

age 16+

Based on 11 parent reviews

age 15+

Based on 14 kid reviews

Kids say the show is both visually stunning and deeply disturbing, particularly in its first season where graphic violence and sexual content are prevalent. While it is praised for its artistic adaptation and compelling characters, many recommend it for mature audiences only, highlighting a strong thematic focus on darker aspects of human nature and the importance of hope amidst chaos.

  • graphic violence
  • mature themes
  • emotional depth
  • recommend for adults
  • strong characters
Summarized with AI

What's the Story?

The show follows Dream (Tom Sturridge), also known as Morpheus, the king of all dreams who rules the mythical land of the Dreaming. In 1916, Dream is captured during an occult ritual. After 105 years of imprisonment, Dream escapes his captivity. Now in the year 2021, Dream sets out on a journey to regain his powers and reestablish order in his former kingdom of the Dreaming.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say ( 11 ):
Kids say ( 14 ):

This languid, dramatic series offers lots of gothic delights for fans of dark worlds. The Sandman starts out with opulent stained glass, brocade curtains, and mahogany, making the Magus' mansion adequately spooky and ornate as a setting for Dream's captivity. Once he's free, Dream's own abandoned palace and other locations are equally lush and detailed. Many newcomers to Gaiman's popular tale may find themselves a little overwhelmed by the depth and drama of his world, but the series quickly enough gives clarity to its characters and plot. Others may find the opaque dialogue and slow pace somewhat tedious, but fans of the comic should be pleased by this sumptuous adaptation.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about why The Sandman has been so popular for so long as a comic. What sets it apart from other traditional comic stories like superhero stories?

  • Which characters in this series display courage? Why is it an important character strength?

TV Details

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The Sandman television series poster

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