A scene from Taylor Sheridan's new Paramount+ series "Landman," starring Billy Bob Thornton, has ignited a heated discussion on social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), concerning the environmental effects of renewable energy sources. The show, also featuring Demi Moore and Jon Hamm, delves into the world of West Texas oil tycoons and their interactions within the energy sector.
The viral clip features a pointed exchange between Thornton's character, Tommy Norris, and another character portrayed by Kayla Wallace. Wallace's character questions the supposed "clean" energy used to power oil wells, to which Thornton retorts that there's nothing clean about alternative energy sources like wind turbines. He argues that the carbon footprint of manufacturing and maintaining these structures outweighs their environmental benefits over their lifespan.
Thornton's character further criticizes the reliance on diesel for constructing and transporting wind turbines, as well as the oil needed for lubrication and winterization. He also touches upon the environmental impact of solar panels and lithium batteries used in electric vehicles.
This scene has drawn both praise and criticism online. Some users lauded the show for raising important questions about the complexities of renewable energy, while others challenged the accuracy of Thornton's character's claims regarding the carbon payback period of wind turbines and the feasibility of producing them using solely wind energy. The debate extends to the broader discussion of the environmental impact of various energy sources and their role in addressing climate change.
"Landman" is based on the "Boomtown" podcast, a documentary series exploring the lives and businesses of wealthy individuals involved in the West Texas oil industry. Sheridan, known for creating the hit series "Yellowstone," first announced plans for "Landman" in 2022.
