The latest episode of Paramount+’s Landman, titled "All Roads Lead to a Hole," showcases significant character developments as the drama continues to unravel around the Norris family. This series, created by Yellowstone mastermind Taylor Sheridan, provides its audience with intense storylines centered on oil crisis management executive Tommy Norris, played persuasively by Billy Bob Thornton. Episode 7 shifts focus from the plot elements seen in previous episodes to explore the personal lives and struggles of each character.
Viewers witness Angela and Ainsley Norris becoming involved with the local retirement community. The episode begins with both women impulsively volunteering at the home, which leads to comedic festivities involving games and drinks for the elderly residents — choices reflective of Angela's character and her influence on Ainsley. Angela seems to delight in spicing up the mundane lives around her, saying, "My only job is to make my man happy. Then he will buy me the things...and I will reward him with sex. That’s the way the world works, honey," which provides insight not only on her character but also invites questions about Ainsley’s future values.
Meanwhile, the dynamic between Ainsley and her father is shaken during a party when Tommy discovers Ainsley getting frisky with her new crush, Ryder Sampson, who is portrayed as the archetypal high school quarterback. Tommy's protective instincts kick in, resulting in confrontations and conflict, reflecting his troubled relationship with both his daughter and his ex-wife, Angela. Observing from the bushes, viewers spot potential cartel members, hinting at the lurking danger still posed to Tommy and his family.
On the romantic side, the plot foreshadows budding feelings between Cooper and Ariana. Their relationship evolves away from the tumultuous tides of the Norris family dramas, offering potential warmth amid the chaos faced by their parents. Ariana’s playful comment, “I know. I put it there,” directed toward Cooper, symbolizes both attraction and the troubles they could spell for each other down the line.
The peak tension revolves around Rebecca’s intentions toward Cooper. After the explosive events of the previous episodes, the stakes for the Norris family are raised when Rebecca seeks Cooper out to discuss the terms of M-TEX’s settlement, adding dire complexity to the already tenuous relationships. It looks likely viewers will witness dramatic confrontations—especially as Cooper feels guilty about events leading up to the deadly explosion earlier this season. The interplay between the characters positions the plot for future confrontations, all framed within the cartel threat.
Similar to earlier episodes, “All Roads Lead to a Hole” interweaves moments of levity with high-stakes tension, but some critics argue this episode feels less impactful overall. The balance between family dynamics and cartel threats is skewed, with the episode focusing more on Angela and Ainsley's antics than reinforcing the storyline involving the cartel's risk. "With just three episodes left, Landman veers off course," remarks one critic, alluding to the imbalance between character-driven narratives and the overarching plot.
While some laud the camaraderie between characters when low-stakes moments are juxtaposed with serious threats, others see this divergence as problematic—saying it risks losing the audience's engagement with the established tension. The serious themes surrounding the oil industry, cartel, and the characters' relationships aren't as effectively tied together as one may wish.
Episode 7 stands out for its humor and social commentary, but its ambitions seem muddied over the continued twists and turns of the plot. The episode undeniably showcases the charm of its cast, from Tommy's tough exterior mingling with tender family moments, to Angela's cringe-worthy, yet humorous exchanges. The contrasting tones can be jarring, yet offer viewers genuine moments amid far-fetched narratives.
With the cliffhanger ending as Rebecca is confronted by Cooper at Ariana's home, viewers are left with bated breath ramping up their expectations for the following episodes. Will Cooper confront the truths about his father’s role, and how will this affect their bond? Will the growing romance between Ariana and Cooper develop amid increasing contention from their families?
Overall, “All Roads Lead to a Hole” exemplifies the duality of Landman as it simultaneously entertains and perplexes. The series has achieved something of greatness, and just as many have become invested, it faces the challenge of maintaining its momentum heading fully toward the end of its first season.
