Monty’s Decision to Appoint Rebecca as VP of Exploration: Implications for Tommy and Nate

Contains SPOILERS for Landman episode 9

In the gripping ninth episode of Landman season 1, Monty Miller’s decision to promote Rebecca Falcone to Vice President of Exploration at M-Tex sends shockwaves through the company, raising concerns for characters Tommy Norris and Nate. Portrayed by Billy Bob Thornton, Tommy is an oil crisis management expert navigating turbulent challenges that could jeopardize the company’s reputation. As tensions escalate, Monty opts to enlist the expertise of the ambitious lawyer Rebecca, aiming to mitigate emerging issues.

Rebecca has been instrumental in assisting Monty with potential crisis management, yet her dynamic with Tommy has quickly soured. Upon her arrival, she held preconceived notions about Tommy, the oil sector, and the local culture, creating immediate friction. The hostility intensified in episode 8 when she threatened Tommy’s son, Cooper, following a successful negotiation that undermined Rebecca’s authority, leaving her ego bruised.

Monty’s Decision on Rebecca Is Reasonable Despite Her Inexperience

Rebecca: A Potential Asset for the Company

As Landman episode 9 draws to a close, news of Monty’s passing impacts Tommy profoundly. In his final decisions, Monty chose to elevate Tommy’s role within the company while also entrusting Rebecca with the VP position. Both Tommy and Nate are justifiably alarmed by Monty’s choice, considering her animosity towards them and her lack of background in the oil industry. While these concerns echo their reality, the decision has some logical underpinnings.

Despite her occasionally abrasive demeanor, Rebecca has shown remarkable negotiation skills. While she hasn’t successfully secured a $500,000 settlement with the widows, it appears her initial strategy may have been to undercut their expectations, sparing the company significant loss. It stands to reason that Monty recognized her potential after witnessing her capabilities in high-stakes negotiations during their brief partnership.

Rebecca’s VP Role Poses Challenges for Tommy & Nate

Strained Relationships Present Future Challenges

Rebecca Falcone and Tommy Norris drink at the Patch Cafe

The primary concern in this upheaval lies not with the company itself but rather with Tommy and Nate. Rebecca is likely to perceive them as immediate threats to her newly acquired position, leading to inevitable conflict. Any attempts at reconciliation may prove futile, especially given her ongoing vendetta against Cooper, which positions Tommy at a disadvantage within his own organization. This animosity is bound to influence the narrative through Landman season 2, amidst the looming threats from the Cartel.

Source & Images