The world of television has once again been captivated by a new series, Landman, set against the backdrop of West Texas's oil boom. This show has rapidly gained momentum, drawing viewers eager to witness the interplay of fortune, family, and the harsh realities of the oil industry. The series features stunning performances from notable actors, including Ali Larter and Billy Bob Thornton, who bring complex characters to life.
Recently, [The Hollywood Reporter](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com) caught up with Larter, who plays Angela Norris, one of the most dynamic roles of her career. Acknowledged for her past work in films such as Final Destination and Resident Evil: The Final Chapter, Larter shared her experiences of working alongside Thornton for the first time.
“You really get to see everybody together,” Larter said, referring to the collaborative atmosphere on set. She praised Thornton for his ability to set the tone and create a respectful environment, which she noted is not always the standard within the industry. "Billy, you know, he's number one on the call sheet, and he sets the tone for how it's going to be..." she stated. Such comments highlight the camaraderie and professionalism that's become pivotal to the show’s success.
At the heart of Landman lies the relationship between Thornton’s character, Tommy Norris, and Larter’s Angela. Their reunion is complicated, with Angela returning at a tumultuous time both personally and professionally. Larter explained, “When you look at Tommy and Angela, when they fell in love, it's first love... Their world completely crumbled, and how she had to find a way to take care of her children.” This nuance adds depth to their narrative, showcasing the struggles of balancing personal relationships with the demands of the industry.
But the spotlight doesn’t solely shine on Larter. Michelle Randolph also joined the series, portraying Tommy’s daughter, Ainsley. Randolph reflects on her character’s introduction, which generated buzz for its bold nature, saying, “I spent a year prepping Ainsley... I had my moments, my thoughts.” This development has sparked discussions among audiences and critics alike, signaling the complexity of the character and challenges she embodies.
Randolph also had the challenge of embodying Ainsley’s free spirit and comedic undertones. She explained her preparation process, which involved extensive study of accents and character development, saying, “I want to find the most human version of this character... Some of the things Ainsley has to say are shocking.” Through introspective work, she sought to convey the essence of Ainsley as more than just the “bratty young daughter.”
Both actresses highlighted the unique environment created by the series' creator, Taylor Sheridan, known for his sharp storytelling. Larter’s first experience with Sheridan was eye-opening, sharing, “It is a high stakes game when you're working with Taylor... He pushes you to go bigger and wilder.” Meanwhile, Randolph echoed similar sentiments about Sheridan’s writing skills, stating, “I’ve learned he is a genius, and he can write any and all different types of shows.” This respect for Sheridan’s work reflects the dedication the cast feels toward their performances and storytelling.
Although the series has only recently debuted, its cultural impact is already being debated among viewers. Some critics have described parts of Ainsley’s storyline as provocative and have sparked discussions throughout social media platforms. Randolph acknowledged this, stating, “It's hard to not be aware of it... I can't tell people how to interpret my character, but at least it's sparking conversation.” At the same time, the vibrancy and depth of both characters suggest much more than what meets the eye.
With each episode, Landman continues to explore the intricacies of life amid the whirlwind of the oil industry. The ensemble cast, which also features Jacob Lofland and the resplendent Demi Moore, brings their characters' intense relationships to the forefront. Billy Bob Thornton’s portrayal as Tommy Norris deepens the narrative, with scenarios involving humor, tension, and familial strife.
Both Larter and Randolph are enthusiastic about the series' direction and their potential character arcs moving forward. Larter has made it clear she is eager to explore Angela more deeply as the series progresses, stating, “There’s so much more to Angela than I think you initially get to see.” This foreshadows the emotional layers yet to be unraveled throughout the season.
Randolph shares similar sentiments about Ainsley, hoping to see the growth of her character as the series continues. “I could film a whole show called Ainsley at this point,” she quipped, emphasizing her deep connection to the role. With her character entering more complex emotional territory, fans are left wondering how Ainsley's relationships will evolve.
With new episodes airing weekly on Paramount+, Landman solidifies itself as one of the most anticipated series of the year. The charisma of its cast and its intriguing storytelling is bound to draw viewers back for more. While the dynamics between characters like Tommy, Angela, and Ainsley are explored, audiences can expect the unexpected, with plenty of surprises and twists along the way.