REBECCA FINDS OUT GALLINO PLAN TO TAKE OVER M-TEX || LANDMAN SEASON 2 FINAL EPISODE SPOILERS

Rebecca’s fling with Charlie becomes relevant to the main plot, so audiences finally understand its point. The fact that she slept with someone who’s technically a subordinate is a potential issue for M-TEX, as Rebecca learns their new drilling plan has a very low chance of success. Nathan decides it’s best for the company to litigate the case after all—but that puts her on the hook. This is huge for Rebecca, who values her professional reputation as her identity, and actor Kayla Wallace is wonderful as Rebecca emotes.

She and Billy Bob Thornton have a fantastic scene in which Rebecca confesses to Tommy and expects the worst. Tommy responds by reassuring Rebecca and even confronting Nathan about forcing her to sign a conflict disclosure form, which is miles away from where Rebecca and Tommy’s dynamic was in Season 1. They started out at each other’s throats, and now he’s there for her when she needs him most. That’s heartwarming to see out of two characters who haven’t been paired together enough during Season 2.

Elsewhere, Boss has a moment that seems to tease a bigger idea Sheridan wants to play with, as he reaches 20 years with M-TEX and admits he doesn’t intend to be around for year 21. It’s a small moment that acknowleges the wear and tear of the oil industry, which could easily be expanded upon, especially since it’s mentioned beforehand that Jerrell is still unable to see. So much of Jerrell’s storyline being off-screen is definitely a missed opportunity; Cooper’s injury in Season 1 had a lot of not only dramatic, but thematic impact. Jerrell’s story could have done the same.

Speaking of Cooper, Sheridan closes Landman Season 2, Episode 7 with his incredibly romantic official proposal to Ariana. It’s a perfect moment, beautifully acted by both Jacob Lofland and Paulina Chavez, and feels much more true to Cooper and Ariana than some of their early scenes this season. The growth of their relationship is in direct contrast to Tommy and Angela, whose love-hate dynamic feels more out of place in “Forever is an Instant” than ever before.