“Kevin Costner’s Epic Western ‘Miracle’ Makes a Grand Entrance at Venice”
VENICE, Sept 8 — Kevin Costner, reflecting on the underwhelming box office performance of his Western epic “Horizon: An American Saga,” acknowledged that its lackluster reception likely contributed to the studio’s decision to delay the release of its sequel. Despite this setback, Costner maintained a positive outlook.
He turned the situation to his advantage, revealing that the postponement allowed “Chapter 2” to debut at the Venice Film Festival, just four months after the first installment was met with lukewarm reviews at the Cannes Film Festival.
“It didn’t have overwhelming success,” Costner admitted to reporters on Saturday.
The actor and director suggested that the studio’s decision not to release the sequel in August as initially planned paved the way for its Venice premiere. “What happened is the miracle of life. They won’t show a film here if it’s already out. And my plan was always to bring it to Venice, and suddenly it has happened,” he explained.
As of now, a new global release date for the sequel has yet to be determined.
Costner has partially financed the project himself, which explores the trials of settlers moving westward in the late 1800s. The story is intended to be presented in four episodes, though Costner admitted he has faced significant challenges.
“I don’t know how I’m going to make Chapter 3 right now, but I’m going to make it,” he said, expressing that obstacles have only fueled his determination.
“When I face rejection, I’m like anyone else. But once I move past my disappointment, my resolve only grows stronger,” Costner, 69, stated. “I need to act quickly and not let the momentum wane. I’ve got to get back to pushing the rock up the hill.”
The “Horizon” series spans a 15-year period surrounding the 1861-1865 US Civil War, depicting the westward expansion of white settlers and the impact on American Indians.
Costner’s previous Western works include the Oscar-winning “Dances With Wolves” (1990) and the popular TV series “Yellowstone.”
“Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2” was screened out of competition on the final day of the Venice Film Festival. — Reuters
