An Open Letter to the Cast and Crew of LANDMAN

by Deidra Garyk

Dear Cast and Crew of Landman

I am writing to express my gratitude for each of you involved in this groundbreaking series. As someone who has spent considerable time working in the oil and gas industry, I want to thank you for the courage you’ve shown in tackling the contentious topic of energy.

Billy Bob Thornton, Demi Moore, Jon Hamm, Ali Larter, and the entire cast and crew: you have taken a bold step by engaging with a subject that has often been deemed taboo—oil and gas. Your willingness to risk your reputations for this project demonstrates an admirable commitment to authenticity and truth in complex storytelling.

As we witness a shift in energy discussions, Landman comes at a pivotal moment. The notion of “energy realism” is beginning to take hold, allowing for more nuanced conversations about our energy landscape. Yet, it remains a considerable risk to assert that renewable energy sources—such as wind and solar—alone are not sufficient to meet modern energy demands. The prevailing Hollywood narrative often presents renewables as the sole answer, and challenging this orthodoxy requires immense courage.

We have come a long way from 2020, when the world was swept up in the mania of net-zero commitments. The truth is that while companies are investing heavily into decarbonization, many are struggling to achieve their emissions reduction targets. This reality underscores that transitioning to new energy sources is no simple task—it demands more than just political will and aspirations.

I appreciate how Landman delves into the often-overlooked realities of the industry, portraying not only the allure of office life but the gritty struggles faced in the field. Your portrayal serves as a poignant reminder that this work is anything but easy. Workers, predominantly men, frequently endure isolated lifestyles, undertaking grueling shiftwork in harsh and unpredictable environments and inclement weather.

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Your insights into the care and camaraderie within the industry resonate. We are indeed a family, bound together by shared experiences and challenges. You have successfully captured the essence of this bond, which is vital in an industry rife with ups and downs.

When oil prices soar, celebrations abound; however, when they plummet—as they inevitably do—the consequences can be devastating and deeply personal. Many in the industry face significant losses, impacting not only their livelihoods but also their families and communities.

Landman has the power to provoke important discussions about energy and the people who work tirelessly within this sector. Thank you for your courage in bringing this story to light and for acknowledging the complexities surrounding energy production. Your work is not just entertainment; it’s a bridge toward understanding a multifaceted industry that plays a crucial role in our society.

Sincerely,
Deidra Garyk

Deidra Garyk is the Founder and President of Equipois:ability Advisory, a consulting firm specializing in sustainability solutions. Over 20 years in the Canadian energy sector, Deidra held key roles, where she focused on a broad range of initiatives, from sustainability reporting to fostering collaboration among industry stakeholders through her work in joint venture contracts.

Outside of her professional commitments, Deidra is an energy advocate and a recognized thought leader. She is passionate about promoting balanced, fact-based discussions on energy policy, and sustainability. Through her research, writing, and public speaking, Deidra seeks to advance a more informed and pragmatic dialogue on the future of energy.