Warning: SPOILERS ahead for Landman season 1, episode 10!Landman delivers an exhilarating conclusion with a substantial, 80-minute season finale titled “The Crumbs of Hope.” This finale successfully wraps up the Paramount+ series while leaving ample opportunities for future narratives. The previous episode, Landman episode 9, ended with Tommy (Billy Bob Thornton) receiving an urgent call from Cami (Demi Moore), suggesting that Monty (Jon Hamm) is in a critical condition. Episode 10 kicks off by confirming that the oil tycoon is in desperate need of a heart transplant, a procedure he may not be fit enough to undergo. This serves as just the backdrop for the finale, where all character arcs converge dramatically.

Satisfying Resolutions for the Norris Family Arc

Ainsley & Cooper’s Significant Development in the Finale

As Tommy navigates the complex situation arising from Monty’s incapacitation that threatens the oil company’s stability, his children, Ainsley (Michelle Randolph) and Cooper (Jacob Lofland), are embarking on their own journeys, exploring lighter and more optimistic storylines. Ainsley, a character who has stirred controversy throughout the series, faced her most unsettling moment when she successfully convinced Ryder (Mitchell Slaggart) to take up the role of a male stripper for nursing home residents. This scene carried an uncomfortable undertone, but ultimately it transformed into a heartwarming love story unfolding between the two characters.

As the narrative progresses, Ryder spends the night at Ainsley’s place, culminating in them sharing an intimate moment in bed together. This development starkly contrasts Ainsley’s previous relationship with Dakota (Drake Rodger), who, at the beginning of the series, was hesitant to engage in a genuine romantic connection with her. While some aspects of her storyline may appear oversexualized, the controversies surrounding her character do not detract from the satisfaction of her journey. By the end, she finally realizes the meaningful relationship she has yearned for, suggesting that, given the strip club storyline, Ryder is likely to remain a significant presence in her life.

Among all the characters in Landman, Cooper emerges as a beacon of hope amidst adversity. His aspirations to unite various landowners and establish a flourishing oil empire are beginning to materialize, as he successfully secures deals that promise substantial profits for himself and his partners in the future. After enduring significant hardships since the show’s inception, it’s heartening to witness his hard work beginning to pay off. However, this success contrasts sharply with Ariana (Paulina Chavez), who is sifting through Elvio’s (Alejandro Akara) belongings, grappling with her loss and determining what to keep and what to donate.

This emotional journey culminates when Cooper arrives home to find Ariana looking through wedding photo albums, attempting to conceal her tears by retreating into the bathroom. Cooper, displaying empathy, gently uncovers her pain and chooses to sit with her, sharing the experience of reminiscing through the album together. This moment significantly deepens the bond between Cooper and Ariana, illustrating that their love can endure even the tragedies that brought them together. It’s a poignant scene that feels well-earned after all the struggles they’ve faced together, suggesting a promising future for their relationship.

Tommy’s Leadership Role Faces the Cartel’s Ominous Threat

The Anticipated Confrontation with the Cartel Leader

On Tommy’s journey, he takes on the mantle of president of Monty’s oil company, compelled to negotiate a land sale while grappling with the impending loss of his friend. This responsibility leads to a series of emotionally charged phone calls with Rebecca (Kayla Wallace), Nate (Colm Feore), and Angela (Ali Larter), as he gradually confronts the harsh reality of Monty’s likely demise. Despite their previous conflicts in Landman episode 8, Tommy and Rebecca form a strategic alliance driven by Monty’s wishes, appointing her to oversee the critical deal.

However, the situation quickly deteriorates for Tommy as he finds himself captured by the cartel, forced to witness the destruction of an oil well. Despite the dire circumstances, he remains undaunted, articulating the influx of organizations drawn to the area by their actions. Unfortunately, Tommy’s peril escalates when he is taken to a strip club and subjected to torture, with the cartel intending to use his murder as a warning to his oil company. This marks the first time he faces imminent danger, a tension heightened by a brief scene illustrating that no one is aware of his whereabouts or the threat he faces.

Fortunately, the cartel’s actual leader appears unexpectedly and eliminates his own men, extending an offer of alliance to Tommy. However, Tommy chooses to decline, stating that while they can maintain a cordial relationship, they cannot become friends. This decision does not alleviate his concerns regarding Monty’s fate, yet it temporarily alleviates the cartel’s threat. As president of the company, however, it is likely that Tommy will encounter them again, even if their interactions are more amicable in nature. The emotional intensity of this experience impacts not only Tommy but also the audience, foreshadowing significant changes in the show’s trajectory.

Landman Prepares for a Transformative Season 2

The Impact of a Character’s Death on Tommy’s New Leadership