DREAM KING

A further point of agreement hinges on Gaiman’s involvement. While Acheampong says he was “absolutely integral in every aspect of the show,” Coleman adds: “The show is so much about his imagination. It’s such a specific world to enter. And it’s a really exciting thing to be able to step into that world, because as an actor it gives you so much room, so many places to go.”

Which raises a question: is there room to dream in today’s well-stocked streaming universe? While streaming platforms brim with genre shows, everyone involved believes The Sandman possesses something special. Says Acheampong, “Each episode is different. Just when you think you’ve worked out what it is, it’s not that thing. I think the show will stand out. People’s minds are going to be blown, in my humble opinion.”

And hearts? Expect to be touched likewise, says Heinberg. “The way I like to talk about Sandman, especially for people who may not be fans of fantasy per se, is that Sandman at its heart is an emotional drama.

“We’ve got plenty of world-building, plenty of fantasy,” he adds, “but it’s actually a very simple story about fathers and sons and brothers and sisters and ex-lovers and people trying to connect and reconnect. Even if you’re not a comic-book person, even if you don’t know about Sandman, I think you’ll fall in love with the characters and root for them and feel what they’re feeling. I think it’s a deeply hopeful, loving experience, which is why it’s as powerful as it is. It teaches you how to be human in the most inclusive, loving and joyful way.” Sounds like a dream.