LANDMAN is a gritty depiction of the Texas oil industry. It is in the capable hands of creator and writer Taylor Sheridan (YELLOWSTONE, 1923). Its strength lies in casting Billy Bob Thornton as Tommy and Ali Larter as his ex, Angela. These two lead both sides of emotional upheavals, violent acts, and good storytelling. It is sexy, raw, sarcastic, and it will educate anyone who doesn’t know a thing about surviving in the oil business.
Thornton is such a cool actor who plays a character living on the edge of whatever morals and ethics he believes in. He is realistic about his days on earth, and this is evident with every chance he takes and word uttered out of his mouth. He is such a skinny dude with a “worn-out” face, while still projecting power, knowledge, and confident cockiness. His quiet demeanor definitely carries a big stick when necessary. Thornton is the glue that binds this series together.
The writers have given the entire ensemble tons of layers to peel back and explore continually. Larter surprises me with her hot love and need for normal, daily security, yet she is one tough bitch when she gets riled. Cooper, the son, (Jacob Lofland) is growing on me. He is more intelligent and more ambitious than he appears, even though he looks like shit after each beating. And who can’t resist Demi Moore as Cami and Jon Hamm as Monty? Their journey is compelling and sad. Money can’t buy everything, although they truly try really hard. Ainsley, Ariana, Rebecca, Nathan, and Dale have my attention. There is more to their characters in each moment they get screen time. This is an epic tale that involves many dramatic and, at times, light-hearted pieces. Everyone is flawed, but they carry on, keeping the world in the clutches of oil. It is a precarious journey.
LANDMAN is currently in its second season. I am so hooked. I never believed I could care about the dangers at the oil rigs. My eyes are open now, and I want to learn more. I guess once oil gets into your skin, it is hard to ignore or let go, especially when it is so well-done. I can taste the dry, Texas dust each time I watch.
LANDMAN is streaming on Paramount+.
