Costner's sweeping Old West epic, which he directed and co-wrote with Jon Baird, will transport audiences across a divided nation as families, friends, and adversaries grapple with the question of what it truly means to be the United States of America. The film, set between 1861 and 1865, follows the character of Hayes Ellison, played by Costner, as he embarks on a journey to the settlement of Horizon in search of belonging.
The trailer for “Horizon: An American Saga” showcases intense gun battles, brutal fistfights, and the challenges Ellison faces during his expansion endeavors. Costner, who has mortgaged some of his land in Santa Barbara, California, to finance the estimated $100 million budget, has described the project as deeply personal.
The large ensemble cast includes Sienna Miller, Sam Worthington, Jena Malone, Danny Huston, Owen Crow Shoe, Michael Rooker, Will Patton, Luke Wilson, and more. Costner's last directorial feature was 2003's “Open Range,” and his work on “Dances with Wolves” earned him Best Director and Best Picture Oscars in 1990.
Despite his unexpected departure from “Yellowstone” season 5, Costner remains open to reprising his role as John Dutton for the final episodes. “Horizon: An American Saga” will be presented in two parts, with Chapter 1 set to be released by Warner Bros. on June 28, 2024, followed by Chapter 2 on August 16, 2024. Costner intends to create a total of four “Horizon” films, with Chapter 3 scheduled to begin production this spring.
As a fan of epic Westerns and Costner's work, I'm excited to see how “Horizon: An American Saga” unfolds. The film's ambitious scope, personal significance to Costner, and talented cast make it a must-see for anyone who appreciates cinematic storytelling at its finest. With the first two chapters set to premiere in the coming months, it's time to mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable journey through a pivotal moment in American history.