Landman has quickly become a must-watch drama series with its gripping storylines and deeply layered characters. Among these characters, one of the most intriguing and ominous figures reintroduced in Landman season 2, episode 2, is Gallino, played by Andy Garcia. For viewers who might have missed his initial appearance or need a refresher, this article dives deep into who Gallino is, his role within the storyline, and why his return signals trouble for the main characters, especially Tommy and Cooper Norris.
Introducing Gallino: Andy Garcia’s Menacing Landman Villain
Gallino first made his appearance in Landman during the climax of season 1. After Tommy Norris, the show’s protagonist, endured kidnapping and torture at the hands of a cartel leader named Jimenez, his fate seemed sealed. However, Gallino notably intervened by leading a group of men to attack the cartel’s stronghold, rescuing Tommy just in time. Though this act might have seemed like a heroic gesture on the surface, Gallino’s true intentions were far more complex and self-serving.
Gallino is revealed to be a high-ranking figure within the same cartel Jimenez belonged to, but with ambitions that reach beyond street-level drug operations. His key motivation for saving Tommy was to coax him into allowing the cartel to expand into the lucrative oil industry, establishing a foothold in M-Tex’s business interests. This shift indicated a more intelligent and sophisticated criminal mind focused on diversifying cartel operations and avoiding the pitfalls of relying solely on narcotics.
Gallino’s Unique Personality and Power
Unlike many typical villains, Gallino’s character is depicted as a charismatic and shrewd businessman. His interaction with Tommy reveals a composed, polite demeanor, which contrasts sharply with his underlying threats and ruthlessness. Gallino’s vision for the cartel’s future emphasizes strategic expansion, and he’s not afraid to use his influence to achieve those goals. Notably, he has the local police on his payroll, showcasing his deep connections and the breadth of his power within the local sphere.
Gallino’s Alter Ego: Dan Morrell and the Front of Sonrisa
In Landman season 2, episode 2, Tommy and Neil uncover a new layer to Gallino’s operations. He publicly poses as Dan Morrell, the founder of Sonrisa, a financial institution that provides loans to oil companies. This facade is likely a front for the cartel’s money laundering and investment in the oil sector. Sonrisa’s existence plays a pivotal role in Gallino’s scheme, allowing him to officially back oil businesses under the radar, under the guise of legitimate finance.
Why Gallino Chose to Back Cooper Norris’ Oil Business
Although Gallino initially expressed interest in collaborating directly with Tommy, his alliance has shifted to backing Cooper Norris, Tommy’s young and inexperienced cousin. Cooper’s oil ventures, despite their apparent high risks, have scored exceptionally successful wells. This improbable success suggests Gallino had prior knowledge or control over the oil prospects, using Cooper as a convenient front to legitimize and grow the cartel’s influence in the oil industry.
The deal terms favor Cooper impressively, with Sonrisa only taking an 18% share after recouping expenses, reinforcing the idea that Cooper is being groomed to play a role without full awareness of the stakes. Gallino’s manipulative strategy hinges on Cooper’s naivety, placing him in a vulnerable position that could be exploited for criminal gains.
Potential Conflict and the Future Impact of Gallino’s Return
The return of Gallino is a harbinger of tension and conflict in Landman season 2. How he plans to manipulate Cooper—and by extension, Tommy—is yet to fully unfold, but the danger is clear. Gallino’s ruthless nature leaves little room for cooperation without coercion. Should Cooper resist or fall out of favor, Gallino is likely to resort to intimidation or violence to maintain control and ensure compliance.
The stakes are growing higher for the protagonists, and Gallino’s involvement ups the ante for the show’s dramatic and dangerous power struggles.
Upcoming Episodes to Watch Out For
Fans of Landman can look forward to new episodes every Sunday at midnight PT. The unfolding seasons promise more thrilling developments around characters like Gallino, Cooper Norris, and Tommy. Here is the schedule for the upcoming episodes:
- Death and a Sunset – November 16
- Sins of the Father – November 23
- Almost a Home – November 30
- Dancing Rainbows – December 7
- The Pirate Dinner – December 14
- Dark Night of the Soul – December 21
- Forever is an Instant – December 28
- Handsome Touched Me – January 4
- Plans, Tears, and Sirens – January 11
- Tragedy and Flies – January 18
Conclusion
Andy Garcia’s Gallino in Landman is one of the show’s most dangerous and compelling villains. As a cartel mastermind with a keen business sense and a powerful public front, his return signals serious challenges ahead for Tommy and Cooper Norris. Understanding Gallino’s background and motivations provides essential insights into the escalating drama of the oil business intertwined with criminal interests on the show. Share your thoughts in the comments and explore more at keeperfacts.com.
