For viewers who have been captivated by the success of Landman and are eagerly awaiting its third season, there are several oil-centered dramas that can help fill the gap. One particularly compelling example is The Stars Fell on Henrietta, a 1995 drama produced by Clint Eastwood. While it differs from the modern-day setting of Landman, the film offers a richly textured story about ambition, risk, and the relentless pursuit of oil wealth. Anchored by a powerful performance from Robert Duvall, it provides more than enough drama to satisfy fans of contemporary oil sagas.

Landman has become a major hit for Paramount+, surprising even its star, Billy Bob Thornton. The series is the creation of Taylor Sheridan, whose writing continues to resonate strongly with audiences. Thornton’s portrayal of Tommy Norris, a charismatic and confident oilman, is a significant part of the show’s appeal. His charm and swagger make the character endlessly engaging. At the same time, the backdrop of the oil industry itself—marked by high stakes, financial gambles, and fierce competition—adds a layer of tension that keeps viewers invested. The race for “black gold” has long proven to be fertile ground for storytelling, and that same energy drives The Stars Fell on Henrietta.

Unlike Landman, which unfolds in the present day, The Stars Fell on Henrietta is set in 1935 Texas during an earlier oil boom. The film centers on Mr. Cox, portrayed by Duvall, a struggling oil wildcatter who is down on his luck but refuses to abandon his dreams. Convinced that a farmer’s land conceals a massive reservoir of oil beneath the surface, Cox sets out to prove his theory despite mounting skepticism and financial hardship. His unwavering belief in striking it rich pushes him to extremes, yet it is precisely this persistence that defines his character. While the tone is less melodramatic than that of Landman, the film still captures the desperation and hope that accompany high-risk ventures in the oil business.

The film was directed by James Keach and shot on location in Texas, lending authenticity to its setting. Although Eastwood produced the project through his Malpaso production company, he neither directed nor starred in it—a rare occurrence in his prolific career. Eastwood has built one of the most respected directorial legacies in Hollywood, often appearing in the films he helms. In later years, he would again step behind the camera without acting, as he did with Juror No. 2, a courtroom drama that received critical praise but limited theatrical exposure. With The Stars Fell on Henrietta, however, he remained strictly in a producing role.

At the heart of the story is the dynamic between Cox and the local farmer Don Day, played by Aidan Quinn. Cox persuades Don that his modest property holds extraordinary potential. Yet neither man has the capital to drill an exploratory well. In their search for funding, they turn to local oil baron Big Dave, portrayed by Brian Dennehy, who is hesitant to invest. The financial obstacles heighten the drama, underscoring how dreams of wealth often depend on the willingness of others to share the risk.

Ultimately, the film belongs to Duvall. His portrayal of Cox is nuanced and deeply human, capturing both the stubborn optimism and the vulnerability of a man chasing the American Dream. Critics widely praised his performance, even when their overall reactions to the film were mixed. The movie currently holds a modest rating on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting divided opinions. Legendary critic Roger Ebert found the film lacking in cohesion, describing it as feeling incomplete and suggesting that an important scene might have been removed and hastily explained through voiceover. Nevertheless, even Ebert acknowledged that Duvall’s performance was “wonderful” and “touching.” Meanwhile, Gene Siskel offered a more favorable assessment, praising director James Keach for presenting a darker narrative than expected and for skillfully building suspense by delaying inevitable outcomes.

Although The Stars Fell on Henrietta may not have achieved the widespread acclaim or popularity of Landman, it remains a worthwhile watch for those fascinated by stories of oil booms and the individuals driven by ambition. Its exploration of risk, faith, and resilience in the face of uncertainty echoes many of the themes that make Landman so compelling. As audiences wait for the return of Tommy Norris—despite rumors about Thornton’s departure—the 1995 film offers a thoughtful and character-driven alternative. For anyone intrigued by the dramatic possibilities of the oil industry and the timeless pursuit of prosperity, it stands as a fitting companion piece.