Promised Land

Steve Butler, a corporate natural gas salesman, arrives in a small rural town with his business partner, Sue, to buy drilling rights from the local landowners. The town is struggling economically, and Steve's pitch, emphasizing financial opportunity, is initially well-received. However, his efforts are complicated by the arrival of Dustin Noble, an environmental activist who raises concerns about the potential dangers of hydraulic fracturing and casts doubt on the company's promises.

Promised Land received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its performances, particularly Matt Damon's, and its thoughtful exploration of complex themes. While some found the film's message a bit too didactic or its resolution somewhat predictable, many appreciated its nuanced portrayal of the clash between corporate interests and community values, and its examination of the American Dream.

• Praised for its strong performances, especially Matt Damon's compelling lead role.
• Applauded for its sensitive handling of the complex issues surrounding natural gas drilling.
• Some critics found the narrative and its resolution to be somewhat conventional or lacking in sharper edges.

Google audience: Audience reviews highlight Matt Damon's strong performance and the film's relevant and thought-provoking subject matter regarding the energy industry and its impact on small towns. Many appreciated the story's emotional depth and the ethical questions it raised.

Nominated for the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song ("Before the Last Petal Falls").

The screenplay was co-written by Matt Damon and John Krasinski, who also starred in the film. They developed the story over several years, inspired by a documentary about the effects of natural gas drilling.