Kevin Costner stands firm in his unwavering vision for Horizon: An American Saga, a monumental four-part cinematic undertaking that delves into the tumultuous era of Civil War-era westward expansion. Despite shifts in its release schedule and persistent industry skepticism, Costner remains focused not on immediate box office returns, but on the enduring legacy he believes Horizon is destined to forge. This perspective is rooted in a career marked by both celebrated triumphs and challenging endeavors. He vividly recalls the pre-release doubts surrounding his now-iconic film, Field of Dreams, a movie he initially predicted would “disappear quickly” due to its “curiously literary and undramatic” nature. Yet, Field of Dreams transcended expectations, becoming a cultural touchstone visited by millions, proving that genuine storytelling can resonate across generations. “It was so dismissive to think Field of Dreams would just fade away,” Costner reflected, “And yet, decades later, we’re still celebrating it. Men, women, sons, daughters—generations have embraced it. That’s the kind of legacy I want for Horizon.”

Costner, a filmmaker renowned for his ambitious scope, from the Oscar-winning grandeur of Dances With Wolves to the sprawling narrative of Waterworld, understands the weight of such large-scale endeavors. Horizon, with its multi-chapter structure, represents his most personal and financially significant gamble, as he personally invested $38 million into the project. He acknowledges the early skepticism that met Horizon long before its first installment premiered. “I’ve faced plenty of dismissiveness,” he states with resolute conviction. “But they can’t dismiss Horizon anymore. It’s out there now. Some may focus on box office numbers, but I believe this movie will be watched for the next 50 years.” This statement underscores a profound belief in the film’s intrinsic value and its potential to transcend fleeting trends, much like his past successes. For Costner, Horizon is far more than mere entertainment; it’s an immersive historical document, a generational bridge designed to connect modern audiences with the profound sacrifices and defining struggles of their ancestors. “There’s a moment when you want your children to watch it—to understand what their ancestors went through. This isn’t just a western, it’s a history lesson about migration and survival. I’m incredibly proud of that.”

The saga aims to portray the intricate and often brutal tapestry of westward migration with an unvarnished honesty. Costner’s commitment to this historical accuracy is central to his vision, ensuring that Horizon unpacks the full complexity of this transformative period. This includes unflinchingly depicting the harsh realities faced by pioneers and, crucially, addressing the profound impact on indigenous populations. “Every town—from St. Louis to Tucson to Phoenix—started with a single stake in the ground,” Costner emphasized, highlighting the foundational truth that “That land belonged to indigenous people who didn’t want settlers there.” This dedication to presenting multiple perspectives, particularly the voices of those often marginalized in historical narratives, echoes the nuanced approach he brought to Dances With Wolves, where the Lakota people were portrayed with depth and dignity. Horizon seeks to illuminate the immense courage, resilience, and often tragic choices made by all parties involved, painting a sprawling panorama of a nation in the throes of its violent birth and expansion.

The journey for Horizon has not been without its logistical hurdles. A notable adjustment involved the decision to delay the theatrical release of Horizon: Chapter 2 from its original August 16 slot, a move intended to give audiences more time to discover the first film. Despite this shift, Costner’s optimism remains high, largely buoyed by the prestigious world premiere at the Venice Film Festival, where both films are slated to screen back-to-back on September 7. This recognition from such a revered international festival was a “wonderful surprise,” Costner shared, affirming that “They understand this is a series.” This validation is particularly meaningful given his initial plans for a more measured release cadence, envisioning a four to six-month gap between chapters rather than the studio’s initial accelerated six-week strategy. While acknowledging that “That idea doesn’t hold anymore,” the Venice premiere undeniably fulfills his aspiration for the saga to be recognized for its sequential narrative and artistic merit.

Costner’s determination, a hallmark of his career, is palpable. He states, “I don’t easily give up on things I care about. Unless someone convinces me it needs a different path, I stick with it.” This steadfastness is crucial in an industry often hesitant to back large-scale westerns, especially in an era dominated by streaming platforms. Costner actively challenges this skepticism, dismissing critics who suggest that ambitious westerns cannot succeed today. He believes his job is to bring something truly original to the screen, acknowledging the inherent difficulty of the genre: “My job is to bring something original. Making a good western is tough.” The multi-chapter format of Horizon allows for a depth and scope rarely afforded to the genre in modern cinema, enabling him to explore the vast array of human experiences on the frontier – from the hopes and dreams of new settlers to the profound cultural dislocation of indigenous tribes, and the complex interplay of power and survival.

The strength of the ensemble cast is another pillar of Costner’s confidence in the project. He specifically lauded Sienna Miller, Jena Malone, and Abbey Lee for their compelling performances in Chapter 1, hinting at even greater depth in their roles within Chapter 2. Such a diverse and talented cast is essential for a narrative that aims to capture the multifaceted human drama of westward expansion, ensuring that the saga resonates with authenticity and emotional power across its various storylines. Costner also shared a more personal hope, that his children might join him for the Venice premiere, echoing their attendance and the memorable seven-minute standing ovation at Cannes for Chapter 1. Ultimately, Horizon: An American Saga stands as a testament to Kevin Costner’s unyielding commitment to expansive, meaningful storytelling, a cinematic endeavor designed not just to entertain, but to educate, provoke reflection, and establish a lasting legacy in the annals of American cinema.