Netflix’s ‘The Sandman’ Season 2 Explores Hell’s Succession and Mythic Quests, Say Critics

LONDON, England – Netflix’s adaptation of Neil Gaiman’s acclaimed comic series, “The Sandman,” has unveiled the first half of its highly anticipated second season, prompting critical analysis of its narrative choices and faithfulness to the source material. A review published by WeHeartMusic on July 6, 2025, provides an early look into the unfolding sagas within the Dreaming and beyond.

Decoding Season 2’s Narrative Arcs

The initial episodes of “The Sandman” Season 2 notably draw from two significant story arcs from Gaiman’s sprawling comic epic: “Season of Mist” and “The Song of Orpheus.” The season reportedly launches with Dream, also known as The Sandman, embarking on a critical mission to Hell. His objective: to rescue his former lover, Nada, who has been imprisoned there for millennia following her rejection of his affection.

This seemingly straightforward quest takes an unexpected and dramatic turn when Lucifer, the ruler of Hell, makes the stunning decision to abdicate. In a pivotal moment, Lucifer bestows the key to Hell upon Dream before abandoning the throne. This act of renunciation triggers a chaotic scramble among various powerful mythological figures, each vying for ownership of the key and control over the infernal realm.

The Orpheus Storyline and Character Adaptations

The WeHeartMusic review highlights the integration of “The Song of Orpheus” storyline as a particularly strong element within this first part of the season. This arc delves into the tragic tale of Orpheus, Dream’s son, and his ill-fated journey into the underworld.

The adaptation also features a notable casting decision involving the character of Constantine. The review suggests that the portrayal of Constantine as a woman, a departure from certain comic iterations, is effectively justified within the plot itself. This justification is tied to a specific plot point where Sandman grants the character immortality, integrating the change seamlessly into the season’s narrative fabric rather than presenting it merely as a casting choice.

Looking Ahead: What the Second Half May Hold

The review provides insight into the potential direction of the season’s latter half. While this first part focuses on the immediate fallout from Lucifer’s abdication and the Orpheus narrative, the second half of Season 2 is expected to adapt the complex and emotionally charged comic arc, “The Kindly Ones,” among other stories.

Interestingly, the review indicates that the “A Game of You” storyline, another significant arc from the comics featuring characters like Barbie and the Land of Fiddler’s Green, appears to be omitted from the Season 2 adaptation, at least in the planned structure described.

As “The Sandman” continues its intricate adaptation of Gaiman’s universe, the choices made in structuring Season 2, particularly the inclusion of key arcs like “Season of Mist” and “The Song of Orpheus” and the strategic omission or deferral of others like “A Game of You,” will undoubtedly continue to be subjects of critical and fan discussion. The resolution of the conflict surrounding the key to Hell and the exploration of “The Kindly Ones” promise a dramatic conclusion to the season.