In recent times, the TV world has been buzzing with the release of Landman, a new series exploring the complex world of land ownership, corporate greed, and familial dynamics, similar to the themes seen in Yellowstone. If you’re a fan of Yellowstone, it’s hard to ignore the striking similarities between the two shows. From power struggles to land disputes, both series seem to be cut from the same cloth. But the big question remains: are these similarities deliberate Easter eggs paying homage to Yellowstone, or is this just an example of lazy writing?

In this article, we’ll explore the key similarities between Landman and Yellowstone, break down whether they’re intentional references or simply recycled ideas, and analyze how this impacts the shows’ credibility and appeal.

The Premise: A Close Look at Both Shows

The Story Behind “Landman”

Landman takes viewers into the cutthroat world of land rights, focusing on corporate moguls trying to navigate and exploit the oil and gas industry. The show centers around a family-owned land empire, where personal grudges and power dynamics drive much of the narrative. Much like Yellowstone, Landman explores themes of family loyalty, the fight for power, and the corruptive influence of money.

The Plot of “Yellowstone”

On the other hand, Yellowstone follows the Dutton family, owners of the largest ranch in Montana, as they defend their land from various external threats. The show delves into the darker sides of human nature, where greed, family loyalty, and betrayal take center stage. Whether it’s dealing with land developers, corrupt politicians, or even members of their own family, the Duttons are constantly battling to preserve their legacy.

Family Conflict: A Major Theme in Both Shows

One of the most striking similarities between Landman and Yellowstone is the portrayal of family conflict. Both shows center around families trying to protect their wealth, land, and legacies. However, this shared theme raises the question: is it a tribute to previous works, or a recycled trope?

“Landman” Family Dynamics

In Landman, the characters’ relationships with one another are tense, with competing family members fighting for control over the family business. The complex family interactions are integral to the show’s drama. Whether it’s the father figure trying to hold his empire together or the sons challenging the traditional ways, the show relies heavily on family conflict to drive its narrative forward.

The Dutton Family Drama

Similarly, Yellowstone is built on the intense family dynamics within the Dutton family. Patriarch John Dutton’s fight to protect the ranch and his family’s legacy is constantly tested by his children’s differing views on how to protect the land. The tension between the Duttons is palpable, from John’s tough love approach to his children’s rebellious attitudes. The emotional stakes are high, and the fight for control is a recurring theme.

Land Disputes: A Shared Struggle for Power

Both Landman and Yellowstone showcase the struggles related to land ownership, and the relentless pursuit of control over valuable land. In fact, land disputes are the central driving force behind the conflict in both shows. This common theme raises the question: are these just natural plot devices, or is it simply an easy way to set up drama?

Land Disputes in “Landman”

In Landman, the show portrays the battle for land rights in the context of the oil and gas industry. Various corporate entities and families are vying for control of land to extract resources. The narrative often revolves around backroom deals, underhanded tactics, and corporate takeovers, all aimed at increasing profits and securing power.

The Duttons’ Battle Over Land

Likewise, Yellowstone places land disputes at the heart of its storyline. From developers wanting to turn the land into resorts to political figures trying to seize it for personal gain, the Duttons’ ranch is constantly under threat. The tension between preserving the land and making deals to protect it from external threats fuels much of the drama throughout the series.

The Power Struggle: Money, Greed, and Corruption

Another undeniable similarity between Landman and Yellowstone is the recurring theme of greed and power struggles. Both shows highlight the corrupting influence of money and how it can tear families and communities apart. But is this exploration of greed a fresh take, or just another cliché?

Greed and Power in “Landman”

In Landman, the pursuit of wealth through the oil industry drives much of the action. Characters make morally questionable decisions in order to secure financial gain, and the narrative focuses on how the lust for power can destroy both people and relationships. Whether it’s corporate executives or landowners, everyone is looking to get ahead, regardless of the costs.

Money and Corruption in “Yellowstone”

Similarly, Yellowstone deals with the negative consequences of wealth and power. The Duttons constantly battle corrupt politicians, wealthy land developers, and even their own family members, all of whom are driven by a desire to acquire more land and resources. The portrayal of greed in Yellowstone is a major thematic element, highlighting how money can lead people to make morally dubious decisions.

Cinematic Style: Is It All About the Aesthetic?

Both Landman and Yellowstone share a similar cinematic style that is deeply tied to the rugged landscapes they depict. From sweeping shots of vast lands to dramatic close-ups of characters in intense situations, the shows’ visuals help establish a powerful connection to the world of land and power.

Cinematic Aesthetics in “Landman”

The visual style of Landman has a gritty, realistic feel, with a focus on capturing the vast, open landscapes and the tense, corporate settings. The cinematography showcases the beauty and danger of land disputes, with every shot serving to heighten the drama.

The Visual Appeal of “Yellowstone”

Yellowstone is known for its stunning cinematography, which emphasizes the beauty of Montana’s landscapes. The breathtaking shots of nature often serve as a backdrop to the intense power struggles between characters, reinforcing the thematic conflict of man vs. nature. The show uses these visuals to immerse viewers in the world of the Duttons.

Easter Eggs or Lazy Writing? A Deeper Look

So, are the similarities between Landman and Yellowstone deliberate Easter eggs or signs of lazy writing? It depends on how you look at it. Some fans argue that the resemblance is a nod to Yellowstone, with Landman borrowing familiar themes and tropes to create a sense of continuity within the genre. Others, however, see it as a case of recycling ideas that have already been successful in Yellowstone without offering anything fresh.

Easter Eggs: Homage or Innovation?

In some instances, the similarities between the two shows may be deliberate, a way for Landman to pay homage to Yellowstone. Writers may have intentionally included certain thematic parallels to acknowledge Yellowstone’s influence on the modern TV landscape. However, this kind of homage can also feel like a crutch, making it harder for Landman to stand on its own.

Lazy Writing: A Recycled Formula?

On the other hand, some viewers may argue that the parallels point to a lack of originality in Landman’s writing. By drawing so heavily on the success of Yellowstone, Landman could be seen as relying too much on familiar tropes and formulas, which ultimately leaves little room for new, innovative storytelling.

Impact on Viewers: Does It Matter?

Whether these similarities are intentional Easter eggs or signs of lazy writing, they ultimately impact how viewers engage with the shows. Some fans may appreciate the familiar themes, seeing them as a tribute to Yellowstone, while others may feel disappointed by the lack of originality. The question remains: do the similarities enhance the experience, or do they hinder the show’s potential?

Conclusion: Innovation or Imitation?

The similarities between Landman and Yellowstone are undeniable, but whether they are deliberate Easter eggs or lazy writing is a matter of perspective. While both shows explore similar themes—family conflict, land disputes, and power struggles—Landman has the opportunity to carve out its own identity and offer something new to audiences. However, the reliance on familiar formulas could risk making the show feel like a mere imitation of its predecessor. Ultimately, it’s up to viewers to decide if the similarities add to the story or detract from it.