Stream This Show – Landman on Paramount +
By Mark Shapiro, Internet Video Magazine Editor
Taylor Sheridan, one of today’s true masters of modern Western storytelling, delivers another rugged, character-driven tale to the small screen with Landman, a gripping look into the complex, high-stakes world of West Texas oil.
Based in the Texas Oil Patch, the series oozes authenticity, moral complexity, and no shortage of brooding tension — but what really sets Landman apart is its exceptional craft across the board, especially in cinematography, writing, directing, and acting.
The cinematography and editing is exceptional.
The vast Texas landscape is more than just a backdrop in Landman — in many ways, it is a character.
Cinematographer Ben Richardson (a frequent Sheridan collaborator) captures the dusty plains, industrial oil fields, and sun-drenched desolation with striking precision. Wide shots emphasize the scale and stakes of the oil empire, while close, intimate frames pull us into the psychological pressure of the characters. The visual tone perfectly complements the themes of power, isolation, and exploitation. There’s a tactile realism to the imagery that makes the world feel lived-in and raw. Yes the show is violent at times, but this is a violent world.
Sheridan’s writing features terse dialogue, gritty monologues, and morally ambiguous characters attempting to navigate worlds bigger than themselves. The writing is sharp, though occasionally heavy-handed in its social commentary. The show explores class disparity, male and female relationships environmental cost, and legacy — without losing the human core of its protagonists. The drama is interspersed with occasional moments of high comedy, but the script never loses its sense of authenticity or momentum.
The directing throughout Landman is confident and character-centric. Episodes often begin with slow builds and explode into emotionally charged or physically violent climaxes. Sheridan’s hand is felt in the pacing and tension, letting scenes breathe when needed but knowing exactly when to tighten the screws. The direction allows the performances to shine, and there’s an effective balance between sprawling world-building and intimate human drama.
Watch the Landman Trailer Here
Billy Bob Thornton delivers a powerhouse performance, effortlessly embodying a hardened oilman caught between profit and principle. He plays with restraint and weariness, hinting at deeper wounds and regrets beneath his bravado. Supporting turns from Ali Larter, Demi Moore and Jon Hamm deliver drama, gravitas and nuance. The ensemble is uniformly strong, with even the smaller roles leaving an impact — a testament to both casting and performance direction.
The first season consist of 10 episodes – yes, there a few slower episodes, but big picture, this is a show you should watch.
Landman doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it polishes it to a high, hard shine. It’s a series that understands the stakes of its setting — personal, political, and environmental — and treats them with the seriousness they deserve. With striking cinematography, razor-sharp writing, confident direction, and standout performances, Landman solidifies Sheridan’s reputation for crafting modern American epics with both soul and bite.
As of May 8, 2025 the second season is in production but the official release date has not yet been
