CTTO
Renowned actor and Oscar-winning director Kevin Costner has embarked on a monumental cinematic journey back to the American West with his latest project, “Horizon: An American Saga.” Spanning four interconnected films, this ambitious endeavor explores the transformative period of American history when European settlers ventured into the untamed wilderness of the West.
Costner, celebrated for his iconic roles in “Dances with Wolves” and “Wyatt Earp,” returns both in front of and behind the camera to delve into the complex narratives of cultural collision and survival that defined this era.
The actor-director’s commitment to “Horizon” goes beyond artistic passion; he self-funded much of the project, investing approximately $38 million of his own money. Costner’s financial gamble underscores his dedication to bringing this epic saga to life, even mortgaging property and deferring his own salary to ensure the film’s production.
“Horizon” is not merely a narrative-driven movie but a profound exploration of America’s early days. Costner reflects on the significance of this period in history, remarking, “If you think about America, it’s really not that old in comparison to the rest of the world… It was like the Garden of Eden. And what they didn’t realize, there was a people here who had been flourishing for 15,000 years.”
The film weaves together stories from both settlers and Indigenous peoples, offering a comprehensive portrayal of the challenges and conflicts they faced during this tumultuous time. Costner’s approach emphasizes authenticity and a complete narrative arc, driven by his unwavering commitment to storytelling.
Central to “Horizon” is its focus on the often overlooked contributions of women in the American West. Costner’s deliberate inclusion of strong female characters reflects his belief in their integral role in shaping history. Actress Sienna Miller, who stars in the film, emphasizes, “To tell a story about the inception of America that doesn’t include women is really disingenuous… Kevin crafted these incredible characters and follows their contribution, not only to the settlement of America, but also their personal struggles.”
The film also prioritizes an accurate portrayal of Indigenous cultures, with extensive efforts made to incorporate authentic languages and traditions. Indigenous actors, such as Wasé Winyan Chief and Tatanka Means, play pivotal roles, ensuring respectful representation on screen.
Costner’s dual role as director and actor presented unique challenges during the intense 52-day shoot, yet his leadership and vision were instrumental in bringing the project to fruition. Reflecting on the experience, Costner acknowledges the complexities of America’s history, particularly its impact on Indigenous peoples: “You can’t have the Western story unless you have the First People’s story… We threw their way of life into chaos.”
“Horizon” aims not only to entertain but also to provoke thought and reflection on the legacy of America’s frontier history. As the film prepares to reach global audiences, Costner expresses gratitude for the collaborative effort that made “Horizon” possible: “It’s been a long journey for me. And I’m grateful that it’s happened and it’s not our movie anymore. It’s your movie.”
With “Horizon: An American Saga,” Kevin Costner invites audiences to journey into the heart of America’s past, offering a poignant and powerful cinematic experience that promises to endure for generations to come.