48/34
A modern-day tale of fortune-seeking in the world of West Texas oil rigs. Watch writer/director Taylor Sheridan’s top movies and TV shows on IMDb, ranked by user ratings. A landman, at least one who works in the oil industry, will act as a go-between for exploration companies and landowners. Typically, a landman’s job is to negotiate and finalize contracts with landowners who have mineral rights to lease those rights to the company they represent. They essentially manage the land and secure leases to drill for oil and gas. As foremen on a construction site, they build roads, worker housing (man camp), oversee the assembly of excavation machinery, and the drilling of the well site itself, especially in remote locations. They are also part of the fixer, problem solver, and helper. Link to CBS News Sunday Morning: Episode #44.24 (2022). It’s a TV formula, but by a writer who will be remembered decades from now in much the same way Norman Lear is remembered now. The difference here seems to be geography. It’s another niche Western show, and brilliant marketing combined with great performances from top-notch actors. Accuracy issues with the oil industry? Apparently. Not a good fit for the mother-daughter-father-family dynamic? Yes. Does that mean nothing happens the same way in real life? No matter, it’s dynamic and fun to watch. Thornton is meant for the role, although I read that it was only written for him at the beginning. Larter gives the best performance and looks phenomenal. Lots of interesting stuff, except for the one oddity – Demi Moore being cast in all 10 episodes. I’ve seen all 5 that have aired so far, and unless it’s just me, I only remember seeing and hearing her once, in her swimming pool, briefly. Hamm’s character isn’t seen as much either, but he did a good job and he embodies his character, but Moore isn’t allowed to add anything yet. Maybe that’s how it’s written and she’ll play a role in later episodes. If not, then I’ll be curious what the deal is there.
