Taylor Sheridan’s latest drama, “Landman,” made its premiere on Paramount+. This gritty, West Texas-set series promises to delve into the high-stakes world of the oil industry, with a star-studded cast including Billy Bob Thornton, Jon Hamm, and Demi Moore.
Thornton Shines, But Sheridan’s Signature Flaws Linger
At the heart of “Landman” is Billy Bob Thornton’s captivating performance as Tommy Norris, a seasoned oil company “fixer” who navigates the industry’s treacherous terrain. Thornton’s gruff charm and unwavering delivery of Sheridan’s signature monologues make him a compelling lead. However, the series struggles to balance its ensemble, as the women in Thornton’s orbit often feel like afterthoughts or caricatures.
Problematic Portrayals Of Female Characters
As the sole writer for the first five episodes, Sheridan has a well-documented history of creating female characters that are, at best, one-dimensional and, at worst, actively offensive. “Landman” is no exception, with the women often existing solely in relation to the men and their problems.
From the flirtatious, “cougar” ex-wife Angela (Ali Larter) to the sexually provocative teenage daughter Ainsley (Michelle Randolph), the female characters seem to be defined by their appearances and their ability to distract or antagonize the men. Even Demi Moore’s Cami, the wife of Hamm’s character, Monty, remains in the background, swimming laps and reminding her husband to take his medication.
A Glimmer Of Hope In Rebecca Savage
The one female character who stands out is Kayla Wallace’s Rebecca Savage, a young, ambitious lawyer who confronts the industry’s rampant sexism head-on. In an otherwise bleak landscape, her fiery monologue, where she challenges the notion that her looks led to her hiring, represents a rare moment of empowerment. However, the male gaze ultimately shapes Rebecca, as the camera lingers on her appearance, undermining her agency.
Sheridan’s Signature Style Clashes With Nuance
Sheridan’s trademark style—sweeping vistas, grandiose monologues, and a gritty, masculine sensibility—is on full display in “Landman.” Although this formula has proven successful for him in the past, the absence of subtlety in the female characters is especially noticeable within the traditional male-dominated industry.
A Missed Opportunity To Explore Intersectionality
The series does introduce Ariana (Paulina Chávez), a Mexican-American widow who forms a bond with Thornton’s character’s son. This could have been an opportunity to explore the intersection of gender, race, and class within the oil industry. Unfortunately, Ariana remains a peripheral figure, her story overshadowed by the more prominent male characters.
A Familiar, But Flawed, Sheridan Tale
Ultimately, “Landman” is a familiar Sheridan tale, complete with his signature gritty style and the magnetic presence of Billy Bob Thornton. However, the series’ inability to fully develop its female characters is a missed opportunity that undermines the broader exploration of the oil industry’s complexities. Fans of Sheridan may find comfort in the familiar formula, but those seeking more nuanced portrayals of women may find themselves disappointed.
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