“Landman” is a television drama series that premiered on Paramount+ on November 17, 2024. Created by Taylor Sheridan and Christian Wallace, the series delves into the high-stakes world of the West Texas oil industry. The cast includes Billy Bob Thornton, Jon Hamm, Demi Moore, and Ali Larter.
Plot Summary (Spoilers Below):
Set against the backdrop of the West Texas oil boom, “Landman” follows Tommy Norris (Billy Bob Thornton), a seasoned landowner for M-TEX Oil. A landowner serves as a middleman between oil companies and landowners, negotiating land rights for drilling. Tommy’s role puts him at the intersection of corporate interests and the harsh 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 when his daughter, Ainsley, moves in with him and his son, Cooper, survives a tragic oil rig explosion. As the series progresses, Tommy navigates the treacherous dynamics of the oil industry, faces 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, boasting a notable cast and extensive filming on location 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” has no traditional box office earnings. However, it did achieve a significant audience, 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 performance elevates the material.