With a live-action television adaptation of The Sandman coming soon to Netflix and a new edition of the Vertigo comic book series set for publication in 2022, now is the perfect time to be a Sandman fan. Created by Neil Gaiman, Sam Kieth, and Mike Dringenberg in 1989, the universally acclaimed title elevated the comic book medium to new heights. The Sandman follows the Lord of Dreams' quest to rebuild his fantasy kingdom after his lengthy imprisonment. Last year, Audible adapted the first three volumes of the original comic book series into an audio drama, boasting an all-star cast for a stellar production. Its second season, The Sandman: Act II, debuts this September and brings with it operatic glee.

Executive produced and narrated by Gaiman, The Sandman: Act II picks up where the first season left off and hits the ground running. Overall, The Sanman: Act II faithfully adapts Season of Mists, Distant Mirrors, A Game of You, and Convergence. After the Endless receive an ominous warning, the Lord of Dreams, aka Morpheus, ventures into the depths of Hell to fix one of his most grievous sins. Awaiting him in the netherworld, Morpheus encounters surprises that will astound even the hardened demigod and shake him to his core. Meanwhile, forces back on Earth will unveil supernatural adventures tied closely to Morpheus' destiny.

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Season Of Mists - The Sandman comic art

Directed by the returning Dirk Maggs, The Sandman: Act II features the same confident and supremely faithful production as last year's season but with added stakes and an expansive scope that's in line with the comic series. From the torturous depths of Tartarus to short stories further fleshing out The Sandman's world, the production creates an immersive mood with an array of sound effects that serves both as a perfect entry point for those unfamiliar with the comic or old fans looking to experience the story in a new way.

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What a murderers' row of a voice cast this audio drama possesses, with returning stars James McAvoy, Michael Sheen, and Kat Dennings joined by newcomers like Jeffrey Wright and Kristen Schaal. McAvoy's portrayal of Morpheus remains reliably good, with the character becoming more vulnerable than he was in the first season. Likewise, the ensemble cast brings their respective roles to life with aplomb. As The Sandman: Act II's narrator, Gaiman serves as a poetic guide and sets scenes effectively between bouts of dialogue.

The Sandman: Act II leans into the first season's strengths while elevating the material further. Its second season feels richer in its delivery and faithfully adapts a comic book classic. Audible's acclaimed audio drama remains to be a must-listen for any hardcore Sandman fan or new ones looking for a gateway into its expansive mythos.

Directed by Dirk Maggs, The Sandman: Act II is available on Audible Sept. 22, with subscriber access here.

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