The highly anticipated drama series Landman premiered on November 17, 2024, exclusively on Paramount+, showcasing the competitive world of Texas oil rigs. This new show blends the grit of the oil industry with personal dramas, all beneath the vast skies of West Texas.
Starring Oscar winner Billy Bob Thornton as Tommy Norris and featuring other notable talents like Ali Larter, Demi Moore, and Jon Hamm, Landman dives deep not only beneath the earth but also beneath the surface of human ambition and resilience. The narrative is inspired by the podcast series Boomtown, created by industry powerhouse Taylor Sheridan, known for his work on Yellowstone and Tulsa King.
Set against the backdrop of the oil boom, the series explores the clash of fortunes between wildcat billionaires and the hard-working individuals seeking their slice of the American dream. With the stakes higher than ever, the show promises to be more than just entertainment — it’s also a commentary on how this booming industry shapes the economy, climate, and geopolitics.
The filming locations add another layer of authenticity to the show. While the story is set primarily around West Texas, much of the shooting took place in Fort Worth. Utilizing Fort Worth as a backdrop is fitting, as the city boasts historical ties to the oil industry through its natural gas reserves. The varied geography of Fort Worth provides the necessary settings, alternating between rugged terrains and the opulence associated with oil wealth.
Fort Worth's true-to-life oil history is not just scenery; it reflects the very essence of what Landman seeks to portray. The city is also home to the American Association of Professional Landmen (AAPL) headquarters, which adds another authentic layer to the production. Incorporation of real-world organizations such as the AAPL not only enhances the narrative’s credibility but also highlights the real-life connections to issues like natural resource management and land acquisition.
Another prominent site used during filming is the Fort Worth Petroleum Club, one of the city’s most prestigious private venues established for oil executives. This setting serves as the perfect counterpoint to scenes featuring the show’s hard-working landmen, driving home the social divides present within the industry. The club offers insights not only on business dealings but also on the exclusive nature of those who thrive on the profits of oil without engaging directly with the labor.
The involvement of Texas Christian University (TCU) also plays a significant role within the narrative. Featured prominently as the college attended by Monty Miller’s daughter, Gracie, TCU lends its campus facilities to key scenes, grounding the plot even more within the local culture and educational opportunities available to the region’s elite. The distinct character of TCU encapsulates the duality of privilege and ambition, echoing the narrative of the wealthy compared to their working-class counterparts.
With high expectations and remarkable talent onboard, fans are eagerly watching as Landman reveals the ups and downs associated with West Texas's oil boom. Viewers are drawn not only to the action and drama but also to the intimate portrayal of real-life pressures faced by those working behind the scenes, such as landmen, who facilitate these expansive operations. The complex relationships, economic challenges, and deep-rooted cultural conflicts depicted have already garnered the attention of critics and audiences alike.
An exciting aspect of Landman is its upcoming second season, already confirmed, enhancing the momentum surrounding this thrilling series. Viewers are intrigued to see how the show will evolve and portray the continuing saga of those entrenched within the oil industry's many layers.
Overall, Landman appears poised to make a substantial mark as it reflects the reality of one of America’s most significant industries, providing gripping storytelling along with sharp social commentary on contemporary issues connected to energy, resource management, and environmental effects.
