“Kevin Costner’s Western Flop Becomes Unexpected Hit on Max”
When Kevin Costner announced his departure from the Taylor Sheridan-created series “Yellowstone,” fans were left puzzled. However, Costner quickly shifted focus to a new venture—a film franchise set against the backdrop of the American West. Despite its initial failure at the box office, with “Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1” failing to make a significant impact, it has now become a major success on Max.
Kevin Costner’s Ambitious Western Vision
It wasn’t surprising that Costner’s “Horizon” delves into the Western Expansion era, a period he’s explored throughout his career. Released in June, the film transports audiences to 1863, during the American Civil War, depicting the harsh realities faced by those venturing westward for new opportunities. The narrative centers on settlers striving for a better life beyond the eastern states, capturing the grit and determination required to endure those challenging times.
A Star-Studded Cast
In assembling the cast for “Horizon,” Costner had the luxury of choosing from a network of esteemed actors. The film features performances by Sienna Miller (“American Sniper”), Sam Worthington (“Avatar”), Michael Rooker (“The Walking Dead”), Danny Huston (“The Crow”), Jena Malone (“The Hunger Games”), Jamie Campbell Bower (“Stranger Things”), and Giovanni Ribisi (“Gone in 60 Seconds”).
Can Streaming Revive the Franchise?
With a runtime of three hours, “Horizon” may have deterred some moviegoers, contributing to its lackluster box office performance. Released with a $50 million budget, the film only grossed $34.3 million in theaters, falling short of breaking even. However, streaming platforms like Max offer a second chance. Since its debut on Max, the film has garnered significant attention, suggesting that streaming might be the key to salvaging the future of this film series.
