“Kevin Costner Reveals Why ‘Horizon 2’ Wasn’t Released in Theaters After First Film’s Poor Performance”
Kevin Costner has opened up about the decision to cancel the theatrical release of Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2, explaining that it stemmed from the first film’s lackluster box office performance.
Speaking at a press conference for Horizon 2 at the Venice Film Festival, the 69-year-old actor and director admitted that the first installment didn’t achieve “overwhelming success.” The first film, Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1, premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in May, where it received a seven-minute standing ovation. Despite the positive reception, it struggled commercially, grossing $36 million worldwide against a $100 million budget.
Costner, who directed, produced, co-wrote, and starred in both parts of this ambitious Western series, revealed that the decision to cancel the U.S. theatrical release of Horizon 2, originally scheduled for August 16, was influenced by the disappointing performance of the first chapter. He described the change as a “studio decision” and reflected on how it allowed him to participate in the Venice Film Festival.
“If the film had been released in theaters as planned, I wouldn’t have been able to come to Venice,” Costner said. “The festival’s support gave me a chance to fulfill a dream and didn’t let it be squashed. Venice keeps coming to my rescue.”
Horizon 2 was added to the Venice Film Festival lineup as a last-minute inclusion and premiered out-of-competition on the festival’s final day. Despite the setbacks, Costner expressed that his determination to continue with the series has only grown stronger. “When things don’t come easily, I’m even more motivated to push forward,” he said.
The film continues the saga of the American West during the Civil War, featuring an ensemble cast including Sienna Miller, Sam Worthington, and Giovanni Ribisi. Principal photography for Horizon 3 began in May and is expected to wrap up next year.
At the press conference, Costner hinted that the third chapter will be “devastating” and shared his commitment to completing the trilogy. “I don’t know how I’m going to make ‘Three’ right now,” he admitted. “But I’m going to make it.”
