Taylor Sheridan’s acclaimed western series “Yellowstone” may be concluding, but his latest production “Landman” is poised to capture viewers’ attention and perhaps fill the gap left behind.
Starring Billy Bob Thornton, “Landman” delves into the treacherous world of the oil industry amidst the boomtowns of West Texas. This new series draws inspiration from the “Boomtown” podcast, which chronicled the Permian Basin’s historical oil surge.
The initial two episodes premiered on Paramount+ recently. The cast is notable, featuring Thornton as Tommy Norris, a gritty oil executive focused on acquiring land and mineral rights. Jon Hamm portrays Monty Miller, Norris’s superior, while Ali Larter and Demi Moore take on the roles of their respective spouses. The all-star lineup includes Andy Garcia, Michael Peña, and James Jordan, who previously appeared as a guest star on “Yellowstone.”
The narrative centers around Tommy Norris and his endeavors in the booming oil and gas industry, set against a backdrop of high financial stakes and imminent danger: “an upstairs/downstairs story of roughnecks and wildcat billionaires,” as detailed in a series synopsis. The storyline not only illustrates the oil rush but also highlights its profound impact on the climate, economy, and geopolitics.
“Landman” is co-created by Sheridan and journalist Christian Wallace, who hosted the “Boomtown” podcast. The series reflects upon the transformative effects of fracking in the Permian Basin, which turned the area into one of the globe’s richest oil repositories, altering the fabric of West Texas life.
In a recent interview, Thornton emphasized that the heart of the series lies in exploring personal relationships and the broader implications for families involved in the oil sector. He stated, “What this show is really about is the relationships and how people are affected,” showcasing a more human perspective on the struggle within this industry.
The first two episodes are currently available on Paramount+, with new episodes set to premiere every Sunday.
As audiences transition from “Yellowstone,” “Landman” offers a fresh narrative that highlights not just the dramatic elements of the oil boom, but also the rich personal stories woven throughout, providing a hopeful and engaging exploration of life amid adversity.
Summary: “Landman,” a new series by Taylor Sheridan starring Billy Bob Thornton, offers a gritty portrayal of the oil industry in West Texas, based on the “Boomtown” podcast. Viewers can expect a deep exploration of relationships and the impact of this booming industry as the series becomes available on Paramount+.