Taylor Sheridan, known for his impactful storytelling, brings another gripping series to the table, perfectly attuned to the longing of “Yellowstone” aficionados. While some critics argue that Sheridan lost his touch in season 5 of “Yellowstone,” his knack for creating engaging narratives remains steadfast as he rolls out future projects intended to rekindle interest among his fans. As anticipation builds, Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser are set to reprise their roles in a “Yellowstone” spin-off, with more offerings like “The Madison,” “6666,” and the second season of “1923” poised to expand the mesmerizing neo-Western universe that Sheridan has crafted.
Currently captivating audiences on Paramount+ is “Landman,” a show that diverges slightly from the cowboy-centric tales of “Yellowstone,” focusing instead on oil workers. Billy Bob Thornton stars as Tommy Norris, a savvy fixer working within the oil industry, who manages the delicate balance of his demanding job, parenting a teenage daughter, and navigating an on-again, off-again relationship with his ex-wife. Norris’s world is fraught with challenges as he engages with a not-so-savory cast of characters, many of whom he finds more tolerable than his daughter’s athletic boyfriend. A notable quirk is his love for Dr. Pepper, which he brings up so often that some viewers may suspect it’s a case of product placement—yet it adds a humorous touch.
Norris embodies a blue-collar spirit despite his executive status, using his razor-sharp wit to outsmart tycoons, politicians, and criminals alike. He wouldn’t be out of place in the Dutton family from “Yellowstone,” and “Landman” has multiple threads connecting it to Sheridan’s flagship series.
For “Yellowstone” fans, “Landman” offers a familiar essence through its main character, Tommy Norris, who mirrors the stoicism and fearlessness of John Dutton, played by Kevin Costner. The inaugural episode opens with a gripping scene placing Norris in a precarious situation within a cartel stronghold – a sequence that serves to establish his character’s resilience. Even when a crew member is shot around him, Norris’s primary concern is merely for his own comfort, setting the tone for a narrative rich with organized crime and land disputes.
While crime plays a significant role, “Landman” also sheds light on the industry’s inherent challenges. Sheridan previously showcased the perils of ranching through the character of Colby Mayfield in “Yellowstone,” and similarly, the first episode of “Landman” ends with an oil rig explosion leading to casualties, emphasizing the risks within this profession. Norris’s son, Cooper, portrayed by Jon Lofland, initially appears hapless in his role but undergoes a character arc reminiscent of Jimmy Hurdstrom from “Yellowstone,” developing from an underachiever to a competent worker.
Ultimately, “Landman” stands as yet another compelling creation from Sheridan, exploring themes of corporatism, family ties, and the gripping intersection of crime within settings that evoke the spirit of the Old West. While it bears semblances to “Yellowstone,” it introduces enough original elements to carve out its own identity. In fact, many would argue that “Landman” surpasses the latest season of “Yellowstone,” delivering a potent viewing experience that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
