Landman Review: Oil Industry Drama Puts Spotlight on Masculine Culture

American filmmaker Taylor Sheridan’s latest series, ‘Landman,’ brings to life the risky and predominantly male-dominated world of the oil industry. While Sheridan is celebrated for his dramatizations of gritty, working-class life, as expressed in series like ‘Yellowstone,’ ‘Landman’ is met with criticism concerning its depiction of female characters, as highlighted by TV critic Eric Deggans.

The show stars Billy Bob Thornton as Tommy Norris, a crisis executive for the fictional M-Tex Oil Company. Thornton, who is known for his portrayal of rugged, cynical characters, does not disappoint as Tommy. His character is responsible for negotiating leases with landowners, ensuring oil extraction from the Permian Basin—the leading oil field in the U.S.

This narrative unfolds in an episodic showcase of danger and determination, with Tommy performing high-stakes negotiations, even under life-threatening circumstances such as when dealing with a Mexican drug cartel. Sheridan’s storytelling has been described as a ‘masterful bit of magic,’ but it is tinged with criticism for portrayals of women.

Deggans points out that the series does little to humanize its female characters, relying instead on stereotypes. For example, Ali Larter’s role as Tommy’s ex-wife, Angela, and Demi Moore’s character, Cami Miller, are noted for being shallow, sculpted more as male fantasies rather than fully fleshed personalities. Such portrayals stand in stark contrast to the depth afforded to the male characters.

Despite its character portrayal issues, ‘Landman’ addresses the oil industry’s role in society, described by Tommy as both essential and hazardous. However, it leaves ethical concerns largely unexplored, focusing instead on the business’s operational and familial chaos.

Sheridan, well-regarded for his storytelling prowess, co-created the series with Christian Wallace, based on the podcast ‘Boomtown.’ Known for his success across a plethora of series, including ‘Yellowstone’ and ‘Tulsa King,’ Sheridan’s continued triumphs in viewership highlight the demand for his brand of storytelling. However, as suggested by Deggans, improving the portrayals of women could elevate his work both creatively and commercially.

‘Landman’ also showcases Jon Hamm as Monty Miller, Tommy’s boss and oil tycoon. The interpersonal dynamics in the series, particularly those of Tommy’s family life, form a core part of the show, with Jacob Lofland as Tommy’s son, Cooper. These narratives revolve around themes of personal growth and occupational peril.

Ultimately, ‘Landman’ emerges as another daring depiction of an industry rife with peril and profit, also hinting at the turbulent and uncertain ethical landscapes navigated by those within its sphere.