How Netflix’s The Sandman Saved Millions with a Surprising Romance Twist
Netflix’s The Sandman Adds Romance to Cut CGI Costs
Netflix’s adaptation of The Sandman sticks closely to Neil Gaiman’s original comics but introduces some fresh twists. Showrunner Allan Heinberg reveals that a surprising romance was added in season 2 to save money on expensive CGI effects, while also giving the story a new dynamic.
- Why the romance between Johanna Constantine and The Corinthian was created
- How CGI budget influenced plot changes
- Showrunner’s ideas for spin-offs and a potential season 3
A Budget-Friendly Love Story
In the second half of season 2, Dream (Tom Sturridge) faces the challenge of protecting his realm and choosing a successor for the Dreaming. When Daniel Hall, a baby with part of Dream’s power, is kidnapped, Dream brings back The Corinthian (Boyd Holbrook) to find him. However, in the comics, Dream’s raven Matthew usually tags along to keep The Corinthian in check. Heinberg explains that having Matthew in many scenes was “expensive” due to CGI demands.
To cut costs, Heinberg consulted Neil Gaiman, who suggested pairing The Corinthian with Johanna Constantine, played by Jenna Coleman. This change not only saved money but also introduced a fresh, flirty dynamic between the two characters—The Corinthian as a surprisingly pure-hearted figure and Johanna as the wary occult detective. Heinberg said, “They’re perfect for each other in this weird way.”
Johanna’s past heartbreaks make her initially resist The Corinthian’s advances. In season 1, her girlfriend died due to a magical sand addiction, leaving Johanna burdened with guilt. Heinberg adds, “Boyd really embraced it as well. It was so different from what Boyd was able to do in season 1. […] They really got on and enjoyed each other, and their chemistry was fantastic.”
Spin-Offs and Season 3 Plans
The chemistry between The Corinthian and Constantine was so well-received that Heinberg expressed interest in a spin-off series starring the duo. Although The Sandman ends with season 2, Heinberg envisions a season 3 focused on Dream’s allies Nuala (Ann Skelly) and Lucienne (Vivienne Acheampong) raising Daniel. He also imagines exploring Dream’s siblings Desire and Despair in anthology-style arcs.
Heinberg notes that such expansions would require exceptionally high viewership due to the show’s high production costs but highlights the rich potential for spin-offs given the fully developed characters in the comics.
Where to Watch
The complete second season of The Sandman, episodes 1-11, is now streaming on Netflix. Additionally, the bonus episode Death: The High Cost of Living will be released on July 31.
