Taylor Sheridan has solidified his position as a major force in television with his latest series, “Landman,” now streaming on Paramount+. This new drama shifts focus from the traditional rancher archetype to the gritty realities of the oil industry in Texas, highlighted through the eyes of protagonist Tommy Norris, played by Billy Bob Thornton. Unlike the serene agrarian lifestyle celebrated in “Yellowstone,” Sheridan illustrates a world driven by oil—a metaphor for both wealth and conflict.
“Landman” features a strong and immersive narrative set in the sun-kissed Permian Basin, emphasizing the intricacies of the oil business. The show’s foundation lies on a collaboration between Sheridan and Christian Wallace, whose background in the oil fields lends authenticity to the storyline. The series captures not just the external struggles of the industry but also the personal life of Norris, whose son, Cooper (played by Jacob Lofland), drops out of college to join the demanding world of oil rig work.
Thornton’s compelling portrayal of Tommy Norris effectively navigates the complexities of the oil and gas landscape, touching on critical themes like climate change and the various rights that dictate land ownership. The show opens with a high-stakes negotiation situation that cleverly merges storytelling with an introduction to the less glamorous aspects of the oil business.
Norris, now working for M-Tex Oil under billionaire Monty Miller (Jon Hamm), provides a lens into the life of those who grapple with the implications of their work. The dynamic between the characters offers a snapshot of the stark differences in lifestyle between the corporate elite and those laboring in the fields.
While the show excels in creating a distinctive and vibrant environment, it misses the mark on developing its female characters, who often come off as underwritten. This limitation somewhat stifles potential family drama elements that could enrich the narrative. Widespread criticism of character depth remains particularly directed at Tommy’s ex-wife and daughter, who provide little beyond their initial character sketches.
Despite these shortcomings, “Landman” thrives on its rich portrayal of Texas’s oil landscape, echoing the resonance of “Friday Night Lights.” The setting acts as a textbook of cultural and economic forces, offering viewers a compelling, if imperfect, view of the lives shaped by the industry.
The first two episodes of “Landman” are currently available on Paramount+, with new episodes scheduled to air weekly. Readers can look forward to how the series evolves, especially in bridging character development with its engrossing thematic focus on the consequences of energy production.
This series stands as a fresh and relatable portrayal of modern struggles within the oil industry, offering hope for a deeper understanding of its complexities as future episodes unfold. While it has room for growth, “Landman” invites audiences to engage with a relevant narrative that reflects both the harsh realities and potential futures shaped by energy dependence.