Taylor Sheridan’s popular western series “Yellowstone” may be nearing its conclusion, but his latest project, “Landman,” is here to capture viewers’ attention in a new way.
Starring Billy Bob Thornton, “Landman” delves into the perilous world of the oil industry as it unfolds in the booming towns of West Texas. The series is inspired by the “Boomtown” podcast, which documented the significant historical oil boom in the Permian Basin.
The show debuted its first two episodes on Paramount+ this past Sunday. Notable cast members include Jon Hamm, who plays Monty Miller, Tommy Norris’s superior. Thornton portrays Tommy Norris, a determined oil executive responsible for acquiring land and mineral rights to keep the oil flowing. Angela Norris, Tommy’s wife, is portrayed by Ali Larter, while Demi Moore takes on the role of Cami, Monty’s wife. The ensemble also features guest appearances from Andy Garcia and Michael Peña, alongside familiar faces like James Jordan and 1923’s Michelle Randolph.
The narrative centers on Norris’s challenges in securing land amidst the booming oil industry. This high-stakes environment presents dangers that are not only financial but also impact the climate, economy, and geopolitics. With this backdrop, the series promises to explore “an upstairs/downstairs story of roughnecks and wildcat billionaires.”
“Landman” is rooted in real events, co-created by Sheridan and journalist Christian Wallace, who produced the “Boomtown” podcast in 2019. The podcast illuminated the transformation of the Permian Basin into a major oil hub, significantly disrupting the lives of local residents as fracking became widespread.
In an interview, Thornton emphasized the series’ focus on interpersonal relationships impacted by the industry. He mentioned that the show highlights the ripple effects on families and communities intertwined with the oil business, giving viewers a glimpse into their experiences.
You can catch the thrilling drama of “Landman” on Paramount+, with new episodes releasing every Sunday.
As “Yellowstone” concludes, “Landman” arrives as a promising successor, exploring the complex realities of an industry central to West Texas’s identity and economy. It offers viewers a chance to engage with compelling stories about the human lives behind the oil boom, potentially leading to discussions on the broader implications of such industries in our world today.