There was speculation, of course. Delays, strikes, budget shifts, controversies, rumors. But beyond the noise, something about the structure felt intentional. Not perfect or polished, just planned in a way that fit the nature of the story. Messy and quiet, with space to breathe.

A brilliant medley of spellbinding plot, dazzling visuals and pitch-perfect acting, the first season of Netflix’s “The Sandman” was sheer delight — and is among the peak of graphic novel adaptations.