The new Paramount+ series "Landman," created by Taylor Sheridan, explores the gripping world of West Texas oil rigs and the interconnected lives of its workers, aiming to reflect the complex interplay between personal relationships and the harsh realities of the oil industry. Premiering on November 17, the show stars Ali Larter as Angela Norris and Billy Thornton as her ex-husband, Tommy Norris. The series not only draws audiences with its settings and character dynamics but also reflects real-world experiences through its basis from the podcast "Boomtown" by Christian Wallace.
Reflecting on her character, Ali Larter stated, "We are so different. Me and Billy in real life, are complete opposites." Her acknowledgment of the contrasts between her and Thornton surfaces the chemistry they both brought to their respective roles. Despite their differences, she reveals they bonded over the passion for the material presented to them. "But when we came together... we both loved the material, and we found the love in these two characters. Because as much as they're sparring all the time, they love each other for their flaws, and there's not a lot of judgment," Larter shared during her appearance on "CBS Mornings Plus."
The series takes its narrative from the everyday struggles experienced within the oil industry, depicting the impact on workers' communities and personal lives. Larter expressed her intrigue after auditioning for the role, saying, "When I went down there to screen test, it was like I had to play Angela because she's so provocative and so free and bold and feisty. But then what [Sheridan] does is he really shows you the vulnerable side and where you crumble."
Grounded by the authenticity of actual experiences depicted through "Boomtown," the series prides itself on accuracy. Experts consulted throughout production help capture the realities faced by oil workers, which provides depth and helps viewers connect to the daily challenges portrayed. Larter emphasized this authenticity stating, "To be able to get a real eye... is very special."
Soon after its release, "Landman" engaged audiences by rapidly becoming a competitive contender on Paramount+. Since its debut, it has been embroiled in a streaming battle with Netflix, managing to occupy the top of the weekly charts for four out of the last seven weeks. Although it slipped temporarily behind Netflix’s offerings, such as "Carry On" and more recently, Cameron Diaz’s comeback vehicle, "Back in Action," it earned recognition and viewership during its peak weeks.
According to Samba TV’s data gathered for the week of January 13-19, critics have noted how Diaz’s return to film has quickly highlighted strong performances within Netflix’s line-up, emphasizing the nature of direct competition. The immediate responses from viewers reflect the appetite for engaging narratives like "Landman," which not only entertain but also tackle significant contemporary themes.
"Landman" continues to evolve within the streaming environment, indicating its capacity to leave poignant impressions on audiences. Shows like these intertwine real issues with meaningful characters ask pertinent questions about relationships, responsibilities, and the impact of larger industries. With Ali Larter and Billy Thornton at the helm, their performances resonate, and it seems like the duo has engaged audiences with their emotional portrayal of complex lives intertwined with the ever-challenging oil industry.
Given the foundation of both personal connectivity and the harsh realities shown through the series, viewers can expect "Landman" not only to retain but likely grow its audience, as it reflects broader societal dynamics through individual stories told within its framework. Paramount+’s stake as it engages viewers is only growing as the series finds its footing against competing streaming giants.