Kevin Costner addressed the cancellation of the theatrical release for his second “Horizon” film during a Venice Film Festival press conference on Saturday. He suggested that the decision was likely influenced by the underwhelming box office performance of the first film.
“The first film didn’t achieve overwhelming success,” Costner admitted. “I’ve had many films like that, which have later stood the test of time.”
Costner explained that the original plan was for “Chapter Two” to be released just six weeks after “Chapter One.” However, this was altered due to a studio decision. Despite this setback, Costner saw a silver lining, noting that the change allowed him to showcase “Horizon 2” at the Venice Film Festival. “For me, it worked out as I had always planned to release films about five to six months apart,” he said. “This timing allowed me to come to Venice, which wouldn’t have happened if the film was already out.”
He expressed his gratitude to Venice artistic director Alberto Barbera, praising him for making his dream come true and saving the film from being overlooked. “Alberto bringing this here gave me my dream and didn’t let it be squashed,” Costner said. “Venice keeps coming to my rescue!”
“Horizon 2” was added to Venice’s lineup at the last minute, with the announcement made on July 31 that it would premiere out-of-competition on the festival’s final day. Earlier that month, the U.S. release of “Chapter Two” was cancelled following the disappointing performance of the first installment, which had a $100 million budget but earned only $11 million on its opening weekend.
Despite these challenges, Costner’s commitment to the “Horizon” series remains strong. “When things don’t come easily, there’s something in me that makes me want to push harder,” he said. “I believe this story has lasting value. Rejection only fuels my desire to continue.”
Asked if “Horizon” offers any political commentary relevant to the upcoming U.S. presidential election, Costner clarified that it is not intended as a political message. “‘Horizon’ is not a message to my country, but a reminder of the hardships faced during that journey,” he explained.
Costner returns as director and star for “Chapter Two,” with a cast that includes Sienna Miller, Sam Worthington, Jena Malone, and Danny Huston. The film continues the narrative from the first chapter, depicting the Civil War expansion and settlement of the American West. In addition to directing and starring, Costner co-wrote the film with Jon Baird and produced it through his Territory Pictures.
The “Horizon” series is planned as a four-part saga, with two more films in development. Principal photography on “Chapter 3” began in May and is expected to wrap next year.
As the press conference concluded, Costner shared that all the “Horizon” films are written and teased that “Chapter 3” will be “devastating.” “You get to know these characters, and life continues to challenge them,” he said.
Costner acknowledged the uncertainties ahead for “Horizon 3,” stating, “I don’t know how I’m going to make ‘Three’ right now, but I’m determined to make it.”
