Taylor Sheridan’s New Series “Landman” Promises High-Stakes Drama In The Texas Oil Fields

Dan Lalonde
Sep 5, 2024
3 min read

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Paramount+ has unveiled the trailer for “Landman,” a highly anticipated new drama series from “Yellowstone” creator Taylor Sheridan. The series promises to delve deep into the high-stakes world of Texas oil rigs, bringing a gritty portrayal of an industry that thrives on power, profit, and peril.

A Star-Studded Cast Anchors the Series

“Landman” boasts a stellar lineup of actors, including Billy Bob Thornton, Jon Hamm, Demi Moore, Michelle Randolph, Kayla Wallace, James Jordan, Jacob Lofland, and Paulina Chávez. Thornton leads the cast as Tommy Norris, known as the ‘Landman,’ a hard-nosed peacekeeper and problem solver navigating the rough and often ruthless landscape of the oil industry.

In the teaser, Thornton’s character delivers a memorable line that captures the essence of his role: “But before any of that money is made, you got to secure the land and manage the people. That’s my job. The first part is pretty simple, it’s the second part that can get you killed.” This quote underscores the show’s focus on the challenges of managing both the land and the volatile personalities involved in the oil business.

From Podcast to Screen: The Story Behind “Landman”

The series is adapted from Christian Wallace’s 2019 podcast “Boomtown,” which delves into the booming world of Texas oil rigs. The podcast offered an unflinching look at the impact of oil on local communities and the larger-than-life characters who make their fortunes in this treacherous field. Sheridan’s adaptation builds on this foundation, turning the compelling podcast into a narrative-driven series that mixes fact with fiction.

Taylor Sheridan, known for his gritty storytelling and complex character portrayals in shows like “Yellowstone,” continues his exploration of the American landscape with “Landman.” He co-writes the series alongside Christian Wallace, ensuring the show retains the podcast’s authentic voice while adding Sheridan’s signature dramatic flair.

Behind the Scenes: Creative Powerhouses Fuel “Landman”

“Landman” brings together an impressive team behind the camera, with Michael Friedman serving as the director. Sheridan and Wallace handle the scriptwriting duties, bringing their unique perspectives on the oil industry to the small screen. The series is executive produced by an extensive team that includes Friedman, Sheridan, Wallace, Scott Brown, Ron Burkle, Megan Creydt, Peter Feldman, David Glasser, Jason Hoch, David Hutkin, Geyer Kosinski, J.K. Nickell, Bob Yari, and Dan Friedkin.

This diverse team of producers and creatives aims to deliver a series that not only entertains but also provides a deep dive into the complex and often contentious world of oil drilling in Texas.

A Look at the Characters and Plot of “Landman”

At the center of “Landman” is Tommy Norris, portrayed by Billy Bob Thornton. Norris is not just a landman but a key figure in managing the complex negotiations that keep the oil flowing and the industry running smoothly. His job is to secure land rights, manage the workforce, and, most importantly, keep the peace in a volatile environment.

The series is set against the backdrop of Texas, capturing the vast landscapes, gritty towns, and the chaotic hustle of the oil fields. The characters around Norris, played by Jon Hamm, Demi Moore, and the rest of the cast, add layers of intrigue and conflict, each with their own motivations, secrets, and stakes in the game.

From high-powered executives to roughneck workers, “Landman” paints a comprehensive picture of an industry where fortunes are made and lives are risked. With Sheridan’s touch, viewers can expect morally complex characters, sharp dialogue, and a narrative that pulls no punches.

Premiere Date and Viewing Details

“Landman” is set to premiere on Paramount+ on November 17th. With its captivating trailer and powerhouse cast, the series is poised to be another standout project in Sheridan’s ever-expanding repertoire of compelling American dramas.

For fans of “Yellowstone” and those intrigued by stories of ambition, greed, and survival, “Landman” offers a fresh and intense look into a world seldom seen on screen.