Billy Bob Thornton, Jon Hamm: ‘Without streaming, actors like us would just play the mayor in Batman’

69-year-old Billy Bob Thornton and 53-year-old Jon Hamm are set to showcase their collective stardom and contrasting views on American machismo in the gritty series “Landman,” now streaming on Paramount Plus.

In my view, I’m thrilled to be part of this extraordinary production, born from the collective minds of Taylor Sheridan (of Yellowstone and Tulsa King fame) and Christian Wallace. It’s a dramatic reinterpretation, inspired by Wallace’s highly-acclaimed podcast Boomtown, which delves into the gripping tale of the contemporary oil rush in Texas – a modern-day gold rush, if you will.

In simpler terms, Thornton portrays the character of Tommy Norris, a seasoned problem solver who works under Monty Miller, a wealthy oil tycoon at Hamm’s company. However, which one shines brightest in award-winning circles is up for debate.

What attracted you to Landman?

Hamm: “Taylor has a knack for crafting engaging stories, placing them within settings that are both recognizable and distinctively unusual. The scenery portrayed in this production is multi-faceted, embodying various definitions of intricacy.

“This narrative excels in portraying the human experience; it encompasses humor, tension, happiness, sorrow, and anguish – all the essential elements. Moreover, it presents a world that is seldom depicted on screen.

Do you still feel connected to that America? Or have you gone soft after too long in Hollywood?

Hamm: “We’re all going soft. None of us is getting harder in our old age.”

Thornton: “There’s oil available for that, but no, I remain tied to my origins. John and I are both lifelong fans of the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team, and that bond doesn’t weaken. I have family in Texas and frequently return there. Moreover, I perform music and travel across the country, which allows me to visit numerous cities and many small towns.

Is America still a nation of cowboys at heart?

Thornton: “Of course, there’s no argument about it. The nation began as a tiny part of the eastern seaboard, with the goal of continually expanding until we discovered the land rich in gold.

Did you guys know each other before filming the series?

Hamm: “We crossed paths a while ago, at a St. Louis Cardinals all-star event. Naturally, I admired Billy’s artistry, and I believe it’s safe to say that my work may have held some appeal for him as well!

Working with someone you’ve long respected is always exciting. It brings an extra dimension of intrigue, as you wonder how things will unfold. To collaborate on such significant projects, crafting these captivating narratives, is truly rewarding – all the more so given our current career stages. Let’s make the most of this opportunity!

Hey Billy, you’ve mentioned that casting directors reach out to you when they require someone who plays a jerk. Does that statement ever bother or upset you in any way?

Thornton: “No, actually. In reality, I’m a somewhat insecure, open, and friendly individual. However, I was raised among tough men, including my father. Both my character in Landman and Jon’s share the burden of the world. But I believe Tommy is more impulsive than outright rude.

What’s your take on Noah Hawley, the Fargo showrunner, calling you ‘a type of American man that seems scarcely present nowadays’?

Hey Billy, you’ve mentioned that television is where the best content resides now. Do you believe this ‘golden age of TV’ could continue lasting?

As a dedicated cinephile, I can’t help but notice the profound shift that’s sweeping through our beloved movie industry. Gone are the days when local theaters thrived on a steady stream of diverse films. Now, it seems we’re left with only the grand spectacles that qualify as ‘big event movies’.

As an actor, this transformation has its challenges. If I’m not called upon to play the mayor in the latest Batman installment, or something equally enticing, then finding work becomes a struggle.

In these trying times, it’s streaming services that have stepped up as the industry’s savior. They’ve provided a platform for storytellers like me to share our art with audiences worldwide. So here’s to streaming, keeping our cinematic dreams alive!

Hey Jon, were you convinced easily to play the role of Don Draper from Mad Men once more in Jerry Seinfeld’s latest comedic movie, Unfrosted?

Hamm: “Well, yes and no. I felt it was right to guard Don Draper, so I didn’t want to use that too often. But the opportunity was hard to resist. It was enjoyable, and a pleasant surprise for viewers. Watching it again made me laugh. The day of shooting with Jerry Seinfeld and Melissa McCarthy was fun. It’s always delightful when you get an invitation to join in.

Billy and Jon, who has more Oscars? Or perhaps we should ask, who has fewer awards overall between you two? Billy has an Oscar, and Jon also has one. Both of you have two Golden Globes each.
It seems that both Billy and Jon have achieved great success in their respective fields. Billy has an Academy Award (Oscar), and so does Jon. Additionally, they’ve both earned two Golden Globe awards each. So, the question is, who has more awards overall between the two of them?

Thornton: “We’re even.”

Hamm: “America’s winning. We’ve got so many Golden Globes between us, we jingle when we walk.”

2025-01-07 04:39

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