Landman Season 1 Episode 3 Review: Hell Has a Front Yard
On Landman Season 1 Episode 3, “Hell Has a Front Yard,” Taylor Sheridan continues to drive into the Texas boomtown vibe.
This episode really nails the emotional moments and character interactions, but it does continue with the same issues that throw off the overall flow of the story.
Billy Bob Thornton is killing it as Tommy Norris with his sarcastic humor and layered performance. Things get more interesting and comical when his ex-wife Angela, played by Ali Larter, finally shows up.
Her fiery attitude contrasts with Tommy’s rugged vibe, making their interactions highlight and offering a glimpse into their complicated past and some lingering feelings.
In this episode, Jacob Lofland’s character, Cooper Norris, really gets to stand out. He deals with the fallout from the explosion that took out his crew, faces off against vengeful attackers, and shares a touching moment with a widow.
All these experiences help him grow as a character and show different sides of his personality. His chemistry with Ariana, played by Paulina Chávez, adds a nice layer to the storyline.
Her strong demeanor during her grief suggests there might be a budding relationship, which could bring even more emotional depth to the show.
Kayla Wallace’s character, Rebecca Falcone, is starting to stand out as a fun supporting character. Her partnership with Tommy in looking into recent tragedies brings in some lighter and flirty moments that break up the heavier stuff in the episode. She is showcasing that she can stand toe-to-toe with Norris.
Thornton’s sharp jokes come through in these scenes, adding some humor without taking away from the seriousness of the situation.
Episode 3 has its issues. The subplot with Angela and Ainsley trying to make an ex-boyfriend jealous feels pointless and slows the episode’s flow. Plus, Jon Hamm’s character, Monty Miller, seems to come off as a glorified cameo, and I hope we can explore his character properly.
The series still needs to balance its drama, comedy, and action. Focusing more on Tommy and Cooper’s changing relationship could nail down the show’s emotional part.
Plus, diving deeper into the moral issues tied to the oil industry would take it to a whole new level.
This episode takes a positive step forward, revealing some of the show’s potential. Thornton’s Tommy Norris continues to stand out, showcasing a compelling mix of toughness, humor, and vulnerability.
The series demonstrates great promise by focusing on character-driven narratives while exploring significant themes of ambition and survival. If it builds on its strengths, it could carve out a unique position among today’s dramas.
What did you think of this episode of Landman? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Landman airs Sundays on Paramount+.
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