‘Landman’ Shows That Taylor Sheridan’s Still Got It. Plus, Is Cable Officially Dead?
Nov 21, 2024
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The hosts dive into the seismic shift in cable television, humorously debating the future of iconic channels as Comcast spins off its brands. They analyze new trailers for upcoming shows like 'The Studio' and 'The Pitt', teeming with nostalgia and fresh concepts. A closer look at 'Landman' reveals both its impressive productions and slightly chaotic storytelling. The conversation highlights Taylor Sheridan's distinctive narrative style, intertwining themes of class and capitalism within the oil industry, while contemplating the show's cultural impact.
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Quick takeaways
Comcast's decision to spin off cable channels signifies a significant shakeup in the cable television landscape, suggesting its potential decline.
The complex father-son relationship in Landman reflects the challenges young adults face within the morally ambiguous oil industry.
Taylor Sheridan's storytelling in Landman skillfully blends dark humor with serious themes, inviting audiences to critically examine capitalism's impact.
Deep dives
Introduction of Ringer Movies
A new YouTube channel called Ringer Movies has been launched, featuring full episodes of popular shows such as The Big Picture and The Rewatchables. This platform aims to cater to fans of The Ringer’s movie coverage by providing live episodes, in-depth explorations of movie history, and entertaining segments with various movie enthusiasts. The channel promises a range of content, connecting audiences directly with personalities from The Ringer. Highlights include memorable impressions and engaging discussions that showcase their love for cinema.
Exploring Landman and Taylor Sheridan’s Works
The podcast delves into Landman, a new series from Taylor Sheridan, known for his successful shows like Yellowstone and Lioness. Set in the oil-rich Permian Basin of West Texas, the story follows the life of Tommy Norris, a fixer for an oil company, portrayed by Billy Bob Thornton. The narrative intricately weaves themes of familial relationships and the complexities of the oil industry, showcasing the powerful performances by a well-rounded cast. While the world is captivating, it also resembles a morally ambiguous landscape where characters navigate the darkness of capitalism.
Character Dynamics and Relationships
Character interactions in Landman add depth to the storyline, particularly the father-son relationship between Tommy Norris and his son Cooper. Cooper aspires to step into the family business, yearning to make a name for himself while dealing with the industry's harsh realities. The dynamic oscillates between familial support and the weight of expectations, emphasizing the challenges young adults face in a complex environment. This relationship, along with the introduction of Ainsley, presents a multifaceted view of family life embedded in an unforgiving industry.
Grim Realities and Dark Humor
The series does not shy away from brutal realities, often employing dark humor to depict the struggles of its characters. For instance, a conversation between Tommy and Ainsley about her sexual choices raises eyebrows while simultaneously highlighting the chaotic family dynamics involved. The show walks a fine line between dramatic tension and absurdity, making viewers question their responses to shocking moments. This layers the storytelling, allowing for both seriousness and levity in the portrayal of life in the oil fields.
The Significance of Sheridan’s Creative Choices
Taylor Sheridan’s work with Landman showcases not only his writing prowess but also his ability to create an authentic experience within the narrative. His choice to draw directly from real-life industries lends the series a grounded feel, allowing characters to exist within a living, breathing ecosystem. The pilot effectively combines traditional television tropes with a fresh perspective that encourages viewers to think critically about American industries, their moral implications, and the characters that inhabit them. Ultimately, Sheridan’s storytelling invites audiences to reflect on the deeper themes present within the rich fabric of oil culture.
Chris and Andy talk about the news that Comcast will be spinning off several of its cable channels, including USA and Syfy, into a separate company (1:00). Then they discuss the trailers released this week for ‘The Studio’ from Apple TV (16:44) and ‘The Pitt,’ a new ‘ER’-esque show from Max (19:57). Finally, they break down the first two episodes of ‘Landman’: the newest show from the Taylor Sheridan–verse, which despite some wonky writing, still shines (28:22).