Landman: A Gritty Drama Exploring the Complex World of Oilfields

Set against the backdrop of West Texas, Landman follows Tommy Norris, a complicated and often abrasive figure who navigates the rough terrain of the oil industry. As roughnecks and wildcat billionaires fuel a boom that is having far-reaching consequences, the show paints a vivid picture of the people involved—ranging from hard-nosed landmen like Tommy to the lawyers, engineers, and workers caught in the high-stakes world of oil extraction.

Main Cast and Characters Billy Bob Thornton leads the series as Tommy Norris, a man of many roles, straddling the line between being a landman and a corporate executive. His performance brings a unique depth to the character, making him both likable and flawed. Joining Thornton is a stellar cast that includes Ali Larter as Angela Norris, Tommy’s ex-wife, and Jacob Lofland as their son, Cooper, who works alongside his father in the oil fields. Michelle Randolph plays Ainsley Norris, Tommy’s strong-willed daughter, who is caught in the crossfire of the family’s personal and professional battles.

The show also features Paulina Chavez as Ariana Medina, a key character who is connected to the Medina family of oil crewmen, and Kayla Wallace as Rebecca Falcone, a sharp lawyer involved in a significant legal case. Mark Collie portrays Sheriff Walt Joeberg, while Demi Moore and Jon Hamm appear as Cami and Monty Miller, adding star power to the series with their complex relationships to Tommy.

The Storyline At its core, Landman is a character-driven narrative that examines the dark side of the oil boom in West Texas. Tommy Norris is not only dealing with the personal struggles of his family but also with the broader implications of the oil industry’s rise. From deadly accidents to shady legal dealings, the show highlights the moral and ethical dilemmas that arise in such an environment.

The series explores the volatile relationships between the characters, with Tommy’s abrasive nature often clashing with those around him. The investigation into a fatal accident early in the season sets the stage for the tension that will unfold, and as the episodes progress, viewers are drawn deeper into the morally gray world of oilmen, lawyers, and criminals.

Production and Filming Landman was developed for Paramount+ after a successful podcast adaptation. Filming took place in and around Fort Worth, Texas, where the gritty, rural setting adds authenticity to the story. The production team made use of real-life locations such as the Fort Worth Petroleum Club, providing an immersive experience for viewers.

Reception Upon its release, Landman received generally favorable reviews. Rotten Tomatoes reported an approval rating of 79%, praising the show’s strong performances, particularly Thornton’s portrayal of Tommy Norris. Metacritic also gave the series a mixed-to-average score of 60, with critics noting that while the show covers familiar ground for Sheridan, it offers compelling drama that is difficult to resist.

As the first season unfolds, viewers are introduced to a world where power, greed, and survival often intersect. With its well-crafted characters, tense atmosphere, and exploration of the oil industry’s impact, Landman promises to be a must-watch for fans of intense, character-driven dramas.

Looking Ahead A second season of Landman has already been confirmed, with production set to begin in early 2025, ensuring that audiences will have more opportunities to follow the complex and captivating stories of Tommy Norris and his world. As the show continues to explore the intricate dynamics of the oil industry, Landman stands as a powerful commentary on the cost of ambition and the human toll of an industry that shapes the world in profound ways.