Kevin Costner Undeterred by Horizon 1’s Performance, Vows to Direct Horizon 3: ‘I’m Gonna Make It’
Kevin Costner Determined to Complete Horizon Epic Despite Mixed Reception of Chapter 1
Kevin Costner remains resolute in his commitment to his ambitious Western saga, Horizon: An American Saga, despite the underwhelming box office performance of its first chapter. At a press conference for the Venice International Film Festival, where Chapter 2 is premiering, Costner reflected on the mixed reception and discussed his plans for the remaining films in the series.
Costner attributed the delayed release of Chapter 2—initially set for August 16, just six weeks after Chapter 1—to Warner Bros.’ response to the first film’s lackluster performance. “It was a studio decision not to release it that quickly,” Costner noted, pointing out that such decisions can be influenced by initial outcomes. Nevertheless, he expressed confidence that even films that don’t perform well initially can eventually become classics. “I’ve had a lot of movies that have stood the test of time,” he said. “This has fallen back into my original plan of releasing the films five to six months apart, which allowed me to attend Venice.”
The first chapter, which premiered in June, earned around $36 million worldwide, falling short of expectations. Despite this, Costner, who poured $38 million of his own money into the four-part project, remains committed to completing the saga. “I have to hurry and not let the rock fall back downhill,” he said, showing visible emotion. “I need to push it up again. It’s a rope I cannot let go of. I don’t know exactly how I’m going to make Chapter 3 right now, but I’m determined to make it.”
Costner also reflected on how the challenges of making and releasing Horizon have fueled his determination. “When things don’t come easily, there’s a temptation to step away,” he admitted. “But for me, the difficulty only increases my desire. I believe deeply in the story and its potential to stand the test of time. Rejection, though painful, only strengthens my resolve. It’s that drive that keeps me going.”
