logo
'The Sandman' season 2 faces unfavourable reviews amid Neil Gaiman's scandal

'The Sandman' season 2 faces unfavourable reviews amid Neil Gaiman's scandal

Express Tribune03-07-2025
The Sandman returns to Netflix with the first volume of its second and final season, but early reviews from critics have not been favourable.
Despite its close adherence to Neil Gaiman's acclaimed comic series, the show has been criticised for its fragmented structure and lack of emotional engagement.
The new season follows Tom Sturridge as Dream, also known as Morpheus, as he attempts to make amends for past actions. The narrative covers arcs from Dream Country, Season of Mists, Brief Lives, and Fables and Reflections, but the episodic format has led to a disjointed viewing experience that some critics feel lacks cohesion.
Nick Hilton of The Independent gave the season two premiere two stars, stating: 'It is both a testament to that relationship and a victim of it… too elusive to be emotive, too fast-paced to be introspective.' Similarly, Jack Seale of The Guardian criticised the show for its tone, calling it 'so pretentious it ruins everything' and lamented its lack of humour and excitement.
Added to the challenge are the sexual misconduct allegations made against Neil Gaiman, which he denies. Netflix cancelled the series shortly after the allegations surfaced and has offered little promotion for the latest release.
Volume two and a bonus episode are set to be for released in July,
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

'Wednesday' season 2 struggles to top charts amid Netflix's split-release strategy
'Wednesday' season 2 struggles to top charts amid Netflix's split-release strategy

Express Tribune

time4 hours ago

  • Express Tribune

'Wednesday' season 2 struggles to top charts amid Netflix's split-release strategy

Wednesday season 2 has returned on Netflix nearly three years after its premiere, but the show's popularity appears to be affected by the platform's latest release strategy. Despite positive reviews, the series is not topping global charts as expected. Netflix released the first four episodes of season 2 on August 6, with the remaining four due on September 3. This split-season format follows a wider trend adopted by the streaming platform, but some fans have voiced frustration. According to FlixPatrol, Wednesday currently ranks fourth on Netflix's global TV chart, with Unspeakable Sins leading, followed by Untamed and Beyond the Bar. In the United States, the show entered the charts in tenth place on August 3 and moved up slightly to eighth by August 6. As of August 7, it had not risen higher, recording a number one spot only in Lebanon and appearing in the Top 10 in multiple other regions. Fans rewatched season 1 ahead of the release, but the timing of the new season—launched on a Wednesday—might have impacted viewership, as Netflix traditionally schedules major releases later in the week. Critically, the show performed well. Wednesday season 2 holds an 83% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes, up from 73% in season 1, and maintains an 86% audience rating. Netflix has already confirmed season 3 is in development, with creators aiming for a shorter gap between seasons.

Where is Xavier in 'Wednesday' Season 2? Percy Hynes White's absence explained following scandal
Where is Xavier in 'Wednesday' Season 2? Percy Hynes White's absence explained following scandal

Express Tribune

time2 days ago

  • Express Tribune

Where is Xavier in 'Wednesday' Season 2? Percy Hynes White's absence explained following scandal

Wednesday season 2 has officially arrived on Netflix, and the show has addressed the absence of Xavier Thorpe, previously played by Percy Hynes White. Xavier, a key character in the first season and romantic interest of Wednesday Addams, is confirmed to have transferred to Reichenbach Academy in Switzerland. Principal Dort, played by Steve Buscemi, informs Wednesday of Xavier's move during the first episode. A letter from Xavier later reaches her, referencing one of his psychic visions connected to the mystery at Nevermore. It reads: 'Consider this my goodbye gift… Don't ask me how I know or what it means, but it's connected to you, I'm sure.' Percy Hynes White confirmed earlier this year that he would not return for season 2, writing, 'I had so much fun working on this show. I can't wait to watch season 2 :) Much love.' While no formal reason was shared by the production, his departure follows accusations of sexual assault made in 2023 on X. The post, now deleted, accused the actor of misconduct at a party. Hynes White denied the claims, calling them 'a campaign of misinformation' and stated that the rumours were false. Meanwhile Wednesday Season 2, Part 1 of which is now streaming on Netflix, also features cast additions, including Steve Buscemi, Joanna Lumley, and Billie Piper.

'Wednesday' Season 1 recap: Everything to know before Season 2 premieres on Netflix
'Wednesday' Season 1 recap: Everything to know before Season 2 premieres on Netflix

Express Tribune

time2 days ago

  • Express Tribune

'Wednesday' Season 1 recap: Everything to know before Season 2 premieres on Netflix

As Wednesday Season 2 prepares to debut on August 8, audiences are eager to revisit the supernatural world of Nevermore Academy. Season 1 follows Wednesday Addams (Jenna Ortega) as she joins Nevermore, a school for outcasts, after being expelled for defending her brother. There, she uncovers dark secrets while investigating a series of murders in the nearby town of Jericho. Her psychic visions and connections to her ancestor Goody Addams reveal a prophecy that hints she may destroy Nevermore. Wednesday's strained relationships soon evolve into alliances. She befriends her werewolf roommate Enid, clashes with siren Bianca, and attracts the attention of Xavier. Her bond with normie Tyler grows, but her visions reveal he's the Hyde, a murderous creature controlled by Laurel Gates—posing as teacher Ms Thornhill. Together, they plan to resurrect Jericho's founder, Joseph Crackstone, using Wednesday's blood. In the season finale, Goody helps Wednesday survive a fatal wound, and she, alongside Bianca and Enid, defeats Crackstone, Tyler, and Laurel. Principal Weems is killed during the conflict. The season ends on a cliffhanger as Xavier gifts Wednesday a phone, and she immediately receives threatening texts from a stalker. With classes suspended and unresolved mysteries looming, the stage is set for Season 2. The new season will reportedly explore deeper threats and emotional stakes, including the fate of Enid. Wednesday Season 2 will be released in two parts on Netflix, with the first half dropping on August 6 at 12 am PT/ 3 am ET and the second on September 3.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store