Kevin Costner’s “Horizon” western pulled from theaters after box office flop

Kevin Costner’s ambitious passion project, Horizon: An American Saga, isn’t unfolding as planned. Originally intended to be a four-part epic western, the project has hit significant hurdles, leading to the cancellation of the sequel’s planned release next month.

A Struggling Start

Horizon was designed to have its first two parts released in quick succession this summer. Chapter 1 debuted on June 28, followed by Chapter 2 scheduled for August 16. However, the initial installment did not meet expectations, earning just $11 million in its opening week despite a hefty $100 million budget, with $38 million personally funded by Costner. The film’s poor performance at the box office has forced the studios to rethink their strategy.

Change of Plans

Due to the underwhelming reception of Chapter 1, Territory Pictures and New Line Cinema have decided to delay the release of Chapter 2. The Hollywood Reporter indicated that this decision aims to allow more time for audiences to view the first film at home through video-on-demand (VOD) and streaming services.

“We thank our exhibition partners for their continued support as moviegoers across the US discover the film in its theatrical run,” a New Line spokesperson commented. A new release date for Chapter 2 has yet to be determined.

New Viewing Options

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Horizon: Chapter 1 will be available for home viewing on premium VOD services starting July 16 and will eventually be accessible on the streaming service Max, although the exact date remains unspecified.

Challenges in the Industry

The decision to release the first two parts of Horizon just weeks apart was a bold and unprecedented move in Hollywood. However, it appears that the strategy did not resonate with audiences. The industry’s struggle to draw people to theaters amidst high ticket prices and the allure of at-home streaming options is well-documented, particularly for films that are not part of a major franchise. A three-hour western, even with a star like Kevin Costner, proved to be a tough sell.

Future Prospects

Costner’s recent success on the popular TV show Yellowstone did not translate to box office success for Horizon. The big question now is whether Yellowstone fans will engage with Horizon once it becomes available for home viewing. Some films do find a second life on streaming platforms and rentals after a disappointing theatrical run, providing a glimmer of hope that Horizon might build an audience for its sequels in the future.

Mixed Reception and Critiques

Horizon: Chapter 1 has faced a lukewarm reception from both critics and audiences. On the review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a “rotten” score of 41%, while the audience score is somewhat more favorable at 71%. The film has been criticized for its excessive length and complex narrative, featuring numerous characters and storylines that some found confusing. Despite these criticisms, many have praised the film’s ambition and cinematography.

Personal Stakes for Costner

The mixed reviews and underperformance at the box office are likely disappointing for Kevin Costner, who has been passionately pursuing this project for decades. His dedication to Horizon was so significant that he announced last month he would not be returning to the popular TV show Yellowstone to focus on the film series.

Future Prospects and Challenges

The future of Horizon remains uncertain. While the delay in releasing Chapter 2 gives audiences more time to engage with the first part at home, it also underscores the challenges of drawing viewers to theaters, especially for non-franchise films. Costner’s personal investment and the project’s ambitious scope may still resonate with viewers through home streaming and VOD, potentially revitalizing interest in the sequels.

Conclusion

Kevin Costner’s Horizon: An American Saga represents a significant personal and professional investment for the actor-director. Despite the mixed reviews and box office struggles, the film’s release strategy and future audience reception through alternative viewing platforms will determine its ultimate success. As the industry adapts to changing viewer habits, there remains hope that Horizon can find its audience and fulfill Costner’s long-held vision.