The Sandman, Season 2 Volume 1: Beautiful Dreams, Uneven Momentum

This review concerns Volume 1 of The Sandman's second season, the opening six episodes. Dream returns with a damaged realm to restore and old mistakes to confront. There are powerful moments in this first half, but they take their time emerging. The visual confidence is much more consistent than the dramatic momentum.

The first two or three episodes feel like a monumental introduction. There is exposition, mythology and conversation about guilt, Nada and Orpheus, but not enough urgency. The material is interesting; the experience too often resembles preparation for a story rather than a story moving forwards.

Tom Sturridge remains controlled and almost sculptural as Morpheus. That reserve suits the character until it starts holding the viewer at a distance. The more personal scenes, especially with Orpheus, allow a welcome fracture in the mask. They suggest the vulnerability I would have liked to see more often.

The production is magnificent. The Dreaming, Hell and the spaces of the Endless are convincing fantastical environments rather than merely expensive decoration. The designs surrounding Lucifer and the encounters with Delirium and Desire give the imagery both character and atmosphere.

Supporting performances supply much-needed life. Gwendoline Christie is commanding, Esmé Creed-Miles brings chaotic energy, and Mason Alexander Park creates subtle tension. Death remains an emotional point of reference despite limited time. Ruairi O'Connor's Orpheus is particularly effective, with scenes among this volume's strongest.

Guilt, reconciliation and responsibility are repeatedly raised, but not always developed through action or feeling. This is elegant, beautifully realised television that sometimes gets lost in its own preparation. Patient viewers who enjoy atmosphere have plenty to appreciate. Those seeking clear story arcs and pace will find the first six episodes more uneven. The foundation is substantial; this opening volume does not yet make everything built on it equally persuasive.