Taylor Sheridan has emerged as one of television’s leading creators through his compelling storytelling rooted in rugged landscapes and complex characters. His latest series, “Landman,” available on Paramount+, shifts focus away from the idyllic ranch life to delve into the often gritty reality of the oil industry that forms the backbone of his native Texas.
Starring Billy Bob Thornton as Tommy Norris, the series explores the nuances of the oil-and-gas sector while maintaining the masculine tone and conservative essence viewers expect from Sheridan’s works, akin to his flagship series “Yellowstone.” The character of Norris, a professional fixer with a sharp perspective on the industry, challenges the stereotypes of landowners by bluntly stating that the ranchers he encounters are often just oil tycoons masquerading as cattlemen.
Sheridan’s commitment to authenticity shines through in his collaboration with Christian Wallace, host of the “Boomtown” podcast. Wallace’s firsthand experience in the oil fields informs the series, enhancing details such as the challenges faced by Norris and his son Cooper, who abandons college for the demanding and potentially perilous work on the oil rigs.
The series succeeds in drawing viewers into the complexities of the oil industry, effectively using Thornton’s powerful presence as a vehicle to convey vital themes, including climate change considerations. The show’s opening scene, which juxtaposes an oil lease negotiation with the operations of a cartel, sets a thrilling tone that encapsulates the darker realities of addiction and dependency on fossil fuels.
While “Landman” effectively encompasses various landscapes and the daily grind within the oil industry—from the luxurious settings of boardrooms to the stark realities of the oil fields—it faces criticism regarding the depth of its family dynamics. Female characters largely lack complexity, with the main female roles embodying stereotypes that detract from the narrative’s strength. Despite these shortcomings, the setting itself, richly portrayed against the backdrop of Texas’s oil patch, offers an immersive experience that resonates with viewers, reminiscent of “Friday Night Lights.”
The first two episodes of “Landman” are currently streaming on Paramount+, with new episodes released weekly on Sundays. This series, while it may grapple with certain narrative deficiencies, promises viewers an engaging exploration of themes that remain timely and relevant in today’s socio-economic landscape.
Overall, “Landman” presents an opportunity for deeper discussions about energy dependency, environmental concerns, and the intricacies of personal responsibility within the realm of resource extraction, highlighting that while the path may be complex, the conversations it sparks could lead to positive developments in industry practices and environmental policies.