Ian McShane

5 ‘masterpiece’ Western series better than Landman after season 2 finale

Hit drama Landman will be heading on hiatus as the second season finale drops this Sunday, so what should die-hard fans check out next?

Landman season two is coming to an end this weekend with what’s shaping up to be a jaw-dropping finale.

After Tommy Norris (played by Billy Bob Thornton) is fired from his role as M-Tex President by his boss Cami Miller (Demi Moore), he faces an impossible decision now his purpose in life is unclear for the first time in years.

Thankfully, Tommy still has his unpredictable ex-wife Angela (Ali Larter), loyal daughter Ainsley (Michelle Randolph) and ambitious son Cooper (Jacob Lofland) to support him.

But will their dysfunctional dynamic prove too much to handle in this precarious stage of the landman’s career? Find out today (Sunday, 18th January).

As the hit drama’s second season comes to an end, let’s count down five must-watch Western series fans should check out during the wait for the confirmed third outing.

5. Yellowstone – Paramount+ and Netflix (UK)

A list of the best modern Westerns wouldn’t be complete without the inclusion of Sheridan’s most iconic series to date, the Kevin Costner-led ranch drama Yellowstone.

While it’s safe to assume most fans of Landman will already be caught up on the Dutton family saga, they may not be aware that the first four seasons of the global phenomenon are currently streaming on Netflix in the UK.

Plus, the thrilling story is set to continue this year with both Marshals and The Dutton Ranch hitting Paramount+, following John’s son Kayce (Luke Grimes), his daughter Beth (Kelly Reilly) and her husband Rip Wheeler (Cole Hauser) as they continue his legacy.

While the series’ reputation has somewhat dwindled in recent years, the earlier seasons received acclaim from fans and critics alike. One 10/10 IMDb review raved: “Yellowstone stands as a modern Western masterpiece, a gripping tale that transcends the genre’s conventions, and at its core is the formidable Dutton family.

“Taylor Sheridan’s creation is a compelling blend of family drama, political intrigue, and breathtaking landscapes that make it a must-watch series.”

4. Dark Winds – AMC+ (US) Netflix (UK)

This lesser-known drama is a darker thriller set in the 1970s that follows three Navajo Tribal Police officers investigating chilling conspiracies. It stars Zahn McClarnon, Kiowa Gordon, and Jessica Matten, in addition to The Office’s Rainn Wilson in the first season.

Based on the novels by Tony Hillerman, Dark Winds is perfect for Western fans who want something a little different after Landman. Not only does the period setting offer plenty of nostalgia for older fans, but the exploration of Navajo culture as well as its subtle supernatural horror makes it stand out among other recent titles.

The first season of six episodes are currently available on Netflix in the UK, which one fan on IMDb described as “well written, well acted, well paced. Two episodes in and I’m hooked.”

Someone else gushed in a 10/10 review: “I really loved the 2 seasons of this show. Suspenseful, gripping storyline and great acting.”

3. Deadwood – Paramount+ (UK) HBO Max (US)

One of the most iconic period Westerns of the 21st Century, the hit HBO drama Deadwood is still fondly remembered for its three seasons of cutthroat cowboy drama and a stark, unsanitized portrayal of the Old West.

Iconic performers such as Timothy Olyphant, Ian McShane, Molly Parker, Brad Dourif and many more starred in the thrilling series, which is currently available on Paramount+.

One fan made a bold claim: “Every aspect of the series was perfect. From the setting, cast, acting, writing, and just the entire idea of what this show is. I think most people who have had the opportunity to enjoy this show would say this is maybe the most beautifully written drama since Shakespeare.”

While another said: “This is one of the best shows I’ve ever watched. The acting is just incredible.”

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2. Lawman: Bass Reeves – Paramount+

Sticking with the period theme, this riveting historical drama set just after the American Civil War follows iconic star David Oyelowo as Bass Reeves, one of the first-ever African American Deputy U.S. Marshals west of the Mississippi river.

After his escape from slavery, Reeves becomes a legendary lawman in Arkansas whilst balancing his responsibilities to his family. An A-list cast feature alongside Oyelowo, including Barry Pepper, Dennis Quaid and one of the final performances of Hollywood legend Donald Sutherland.

One positive IMDb review called it “Another great show from Taylor Sheridan!”

They went on: “Well, I was looking forward to seeing Bass Reeves and it didn’t disappoint! A top-notch cast did a great job bringing the characters to life. The locations and cinematography were fantastic and it had a sense of grit that many western series don’t.”

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1. Ransom Canyon – Netflix

This recent Netflix drama is a more subdued offering for Landman fans who stick around for the heartfelt family drama rather than Tommy’s cartel clashes or violent drilling disasters.

Starring Josh Duhamel and Minka Kelly, this romantic-drama is centred around another land dispute, similar to Yellowstone, but focuses on the burgeoning relationship between a grieving rancher and a longtime family friend, the owner of the local dancehall.

However, the sudden appearance of a mysterious drifter with a secretive past threatens to throw their community off its axis. While the stakes aren’t quite as high, fans have all agreed Ransom Canyon is well worth a watch.

One IMDb user promised in a 10/10 review: “If you’re a fan of emotionally rich dramas like Yellowstone and Virgin River, this show is about to become your next obsession. While it begins with a slow burn, give it an episode or two and you’ll be completely hooked.”

Landman season 2 concludes Sunday, 18th January on Paramount+.

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