Plot Summary (Spoilers Ahead):

Set against the backdrop of the West Texas oil boom, “Landman” follows Tommy Norris (Billy Bob Thornton), a seasoned landman for M-TEX Oil. A landman serves as the intermediary between oil companies and landowners, negotiating land rights for drilling. Tommy’s role places him at the intersection of corporate interests and the gritty realities of oil extraction.

In the opening episode, Tommy is taken hostage by a cartel but manages to negotiate a surface lease to secure his freedom. Upon returning home, he faces personal challenges as his daughter, Ainsley, moves in, and his son, Cooper, survives a tragic rig explosion. As the series progresses, Tommy navigates the treacherous dynamics of the oil industry, confronts environmental concerns, and deals with personal relationships, including tensions with his ex-wife, Angela. The narrative intertwines corporate maneuvering with the personal struggles of those living in the oil fields.

Production Budget:

While specific figures have not been publicly disclosed, “Landman” is a high-profile production, featuring a notable ensemble cast and extensive location shoots in Texas. Given these factors, the production budget is estimated to be substantial, reflecting its ambitious scope.

Box Office and Reception:

As a streaming series on Paramount+, “Landman” does not have traditional box office earnings. However, it achieved significant viewership, ranking as the third most-streamed show of 2024 despite its late-year release.

Critically, the series received a 77% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with an average rating of 6.3/10. The consensus highlights Billy Bob Thornton’s compelling performance, noting that while the series covers familiar territory for creator Taylor Sheridan, Thornton’s portrayal elevates the material.